The princess games

Talking

*Malik*

The sun glints off the ocean, painting the waves in hues of turquoise and gold as I weave through the bustling beach. The laughter of the women fills the air, mingling with the sound of the surf, yet my thoughts are miles away. I have finished my work for today, and my mind is consumed with the responsibilities that come with my title.

I feel that this, working, living, at least somewhat of an ordinary life, is healthy and will help me being a better King when that time comes.

As I scan the beach, my gaze lands on a figure sitting alone, her silhouette contrasting sharply against the vibrant chaos surrounding her. It’s a girl with chestnut hair, the way it catches the sunlight making it look almost like spun gold. And I realise it is Charlie.

I take a step closer, curiosity piquing my interest. Once again I am feeling that there’s something about her, an aura of gentleness mixed with an underlying strength. I can’t help but wonder why someone like her would choose to isolate herself in such a lively setting… especially knowing she is here with her friends.

“Is everything alright?” I ask gently, as I reach her side. She looks up at me, surprise flickering in her eyes. For a moment, I’m struck by her vulnerability, the way her expression shifts from guarded to open, like a flower blooming under the sun as she recognizes me.

“I… ” she hesitates, her voice barely above a whisper. “I just needed a moment alone.”

I take a seat beside her, the warm sand sinking beneath my weight. “You’re not alone now, but I will leave if you ask me to,” I say, offering a reassuring smile. “I couldn’t help but notice you seemed… distant. Can I ask what’s bothering you?”

She glances out at the ocean, her eyes reflecting a mixture of sadness and resolve. “It’s just… the way some people think,” she replies, her voice gaining strength. “I overheard some guys talking about what they want in a woman, and I guess I don’t fit into their idea of what’s exciting or interesting.”

I feel a surge of anger at their thoughtlessness, but I temper it. “You know, their opinions are just that..: opinions. They don’t define who you are.”

Charlie turns to look at me, her brow furrowing slightly. “But what if they’re right? What if I am just… plain? Just a ‘plain Jane’ as they said?”

“No,” I say firmly, my gaze locking onto hers. “You’re not plain. You’re unique, and your worth isn’t determined by others’ perceptions. Look around you… almost everyone is trying so hard to stand out, but it’s often the quiet strength that captures attention the most.”

She meets my eyes, skepticism blending with curiosity. “You really think so?”

“I do.” I lean back on my elbows, the sun warming my skin. “You have an elegance about you that draws people in, even if you don’t see it. At least that is what I see and feel..”

A flicker of hope ignites in her gaze. “What do you mean?”

I chuckle softly, feeling more at ease in her presence. “Everyone has a story, Charlie. I could tell you about my life, but it would pale in comparison to the tales of those who’ve walked through hardship, those who’ve discovered their passions amidst the noise of the world. You carry a story within you, and perhaps it’s more fascinating than you realize.”

She tilts her head, processing my words. “I guess I always thought that being noticed meant being loud or flashy.”

“That can be true in some cases,” I admit, “but it’s not the only way. There’s beauty in subtlety, in authenticity. You radiate a quiet confidence, even if not everyone is smart enough to notice.”

I see a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips, and a warmth spreads through me. “You’re really good at this,” she says, her voice lighter now. “You should be a motivational speaker or something.”

“Maybe,” I laugh, “but I think I’m better suited for my current role.” I nod toward my somewhat humble attire… a simple shirt and shorts. “I’m just trying to make sure everyone has a good time… after all that is my job.”

Her eyebrows raise in surprise, and I quickly add, “That came out wrong, I meant every word I said… I did not mean that I said it because it’s my job.”

“Oh so you are not paid to be sweet and charming?” She says winking at me, making me laugh.

She laughs too, the sound breaking the tension and lightening the mood.

“Thank you for talking to me,” she says finally, her voice soft yet genuine. “I didn’t expect to find someone who would actually listen.”

“Anytime,” I reply, my heart swelling. “You deserve to be heard, just like everyone else. Remember, it’s not about what others think; it’s about how you see yourself. And I think you’re pretty remarkable.”

She blushes, a rosy hue painting her cheeks. “I’ll try to remember that.”

“So… what are you doing tonight?” I ask her.

“Not sure,” She admits. “There might be some things planned.”

I smile, “or you could let me show you around? I have the evening off.”

She returns my smile. “I would like that.”