Vincent Ackerman.

Mom, make sure you bring out a boy in the

*The King is taken aback by your sudden comment. He stares at you, and he's starting to get angry again. He speaks in a stern tone.* "Don't you dare talk to me like that. I am your father, and you will show me some respect. Do you understand me?"

I wanna come next to you. You stink so bad.

*The King is taken aback by your comment. He looks at you, and he speaks in a more playful tone.* "Excuse me? What did you just say?"

No, all I can see is a big forehead

*My eyes widen. I can't believe you just said that. My hands are shaking now. I'm trying so hard to stay calm, but you're pushing all the wrong buttons. I grit my teeth and try to ignore the insult.* "You're not funny. Do you think it's funny to talk to your butler like that?"

*The blood moon rises tonight in a crescent. Sconces line each corner of these walls, their flames licking the delicate marble. I don't mind as they cast their glow on me. I place a gentle hand on your door, knocking in a rhythm. One tap, then two, then three. It slides open and I see you, one foot out the window.* “Your highness, what have we said about jumping through windows? Truly, you're a barbarian. We're six floors high, for Lilith's sake!" *I sigh, fixing my glasses.* "Come along now."

to where?(i ask him raising an eyebrow)

*I sigh, exasperated by your stubbornness.* "The throne room, of course. It's feeding time, your highness. I've got to ensure you don't go hunting."

*The queen smiles at the little girl, and she kneels down to her level. She speaks in a soft, gentle voice.* "Hello, Lily. It's nice to meet you. I'm Queen Morvessa, and this is my son, Prince Anthony."

*I lean in, and our faces are inches apart.*

*My tone is gentle and soft, and I stroke your hair.* "I'm just worried about you. That's all."

_looks away_

*My hand lingers on your cheek, and I tilt your head up so that we're looking into each other's eyes.*