Page 73 of Glass Hearts
“It could be possible. But could a spell make them say all that they said? Or how they didn’t even seem to care as I was hit repeatedly?”
“That I am unsure about. That’s why we are out here, away from all the magic. Now tell me, do you really think you are undeserving of love?”
I stare up at the ceiling of the cave, the fireflies still glowing, as if my answer is there. “I am not sure. My best friend alwayssays I am just subconsciously running away from love if it isn’t worthy of me. And, even though it was said out of cruelty, I do wonder if Bernice’s words hold a bit of truth. That I am not lovable or pretty enough. Look at how fast the princes turned on me.” I sigh.
“Pfft, nonsense. Males are dense. Take my Max.”I hear Max gruff at that, apparently still listening. “He wanted to travel to the Terra Isle. So the idiot dumped me and set about with his friend. They made it to the docks, realizing they needed a dang boat and wouldn’t be able to just swim. I made that bear grovel for days on end when he realized what he gave up.”
“And I was being a stupid bear. I could never imagine a life without my Gweny.”
“You are more than deserving of love, dear. Personally, I always think love is worth the risk—but that’s for you to decide. Do not let this harden your pure and kind heart.”
We fall into a natural silence as both Gwen and Max fall asleep. I can’t help but ponder all that has been done and said, including Gwen’s words of wisdom.
I close my eyes, feeling the subtle lulls of Max’s breathing and snores.
For the first time, even with my heartbreak, I feelfreedom. An odd silver lining to my broken heart.
Never had I thought I could even go on an adventure like I am now. Sure, I had to ‘marry’ an awful man to get my freedom, but is it even a proper marriage if it was forced and there was no consummation? For my sanity, I am going to say no.
Although I am heartbroken and worried, excitement about what my future holds also starts to blossom. My plans had never included a man, so why would it start now? I really would have made a dreadful queen if the prince’s sweet words were true. I would much rather be exploring, meeting new people andcreatures, and helping those people in need. Can’t do that when sitting pretty in a castle.
But my betraying heart still pains as I fall into dreamless sleep.
* * *
I awake the next day with a new lease on life and two large bear cubs sitting on me, squishing the shit out of me.
“Papa told me to wake you up!”
“Yup, that will do it,” I say as I try to catch my breath from all the weight.
“Boys, get off of Miss Ella.”
“But Mommm, she wants to play!”
“Sorry boys, now off you go.” She nuzzles her boys so they head towards the exit.
Stretching my sore muscles, I am surprised when I see a leaf with one of my granola bars on a little rock.
“I would offer you meat, but Maxwell says you are a vegetarian. I sort of went through your bag to find that. I just hate feeling unprepared. Anyhow, thank you for all that food.”
“Thank my ex-husband.” I laugh as I eat my granola bar.
Yesterday, I had ridden Max’s back the entire way here, so drained from the previous day’s events. Today will be different. Not only because I don’t want to overextend my new friends’ kindness, but I also want to remember all the sights. When I inevitably flee the mainland of Velora, I want to remember everything from my first home.
“Ahh, she is awake! How are you feeling this morning, Miss Ella?” Max asks as he stalks back into the cave.
“Much better,” I say as I put my boots back on. “You know, Max, you don’t have to escort me to the town. I-I would ratheryou stay here with your lovely family. I couldn’t risk getting you injured again.”
“Nonsense! I need a break from that beast!” Gwen says in a throaty bear laugh way. “Though please don’t go into the human parts, dear, you know how they can be.”
“Yes, yes, they will either kill me thinking I am of danger to them, or they will kill me to get my pelt. You say this all the time, Gweny.”
“I know, I know. I just need you around my big brute. If you come back round’ this way, Ella, I would love to see you again. Take care.”
She nuzzles into my hand. I opt for giving her a big hug, or I suppose, a big bear hug.
“Be safe, Gwen. Thank you for everything.” She nods her head as she and Max take a brief moment to nuzzle each other lovingly.
