Betrothed

Chapter 11: Quentin

As I walked back to the Queshire castle I kept replaying the last hour or so in my head. I kept seeing Nikki and her radiant smile. I still cannot believe the story that she told me about her childhood and past. How could a place such as an orphanage, that is supposed to take care of the less fortunate, be so cruel and miserable? her life makes my problems look petty. However, I am reminded of my petty problems as I walk into the castle and Madeline corners me.

"Wow Madeline, how long have you been waiting for me." I asked her.

"Since you left." She replied like it was nothing, "Now come along older brother, I want to hear a full recap of what happened with Nikki." She said as she started leading me to my study. You just had to love my younger sister. After she closed the door and we both sat she said, "Spill." So I did. I recounted the whole meeting for her.

"Wow..." She breathed after I was finished. "That sounded so sweet, I only hope that I can find love like that one day."

"Madeline it is not 'love' at the moment. This is simply a young lass and a young gentleman getting to know one another." I inform her even though I am pretty sure my face is as red as a beet.

"Yeah, sure, whatever you say older brother. I hope that Nikki is as happy as you are with this meeting, she deserves to be happy after everything that she has been through." Madeline sighs.

"Yes she does." I agree. "I just hope that she is happy with our meeting as well." Now it is my turn to sigh. Madeline jumps up then and starts to head towards the door.

"Well I had better go change for supper, I would not want to upset the clan. See you there Quentin." She says as she is walking just before she leaves she turns back, “Oh, and by the way, you are defiantly in love with Nikki. Bye!" I open my mouth to reply but she is already gone. I remain seated ad I can feel myself starting to blush again. What if Madeline is right? What if I am falling in love with Nikki? How would my family react?