“Mama, I’m home!”
Eighteen-year-old Jasmina walked into the manor and removed her wet cloak.
It had been raining heavily throughout the day.
“Welcome home, dear,” her mother said.
“How was your outing with the prince?”
“It was nice, Mama. The rain tried to spoil the day, but we still had fun.”
Jasmina sat down and smiled.
“Oh, and the prince invited me to be his partner at the Annual Youth Festival this week.”
“That’s wonderful news,” her mother replied.
Before they could continue talking, the front door opened.
“I’m home too.”
Jasmina rolled her eyes as her twin brother, Onxy, stepped inside.
His clothes were soaked from the rain.
“Who cares?” she teased.
“Even if you got lost, I wouldn’t go looking for you.”
Onxy laughed.
“You’re such a caring sister.”
“Before I do, Mother, I have something important to tell you.”
“What is it?”
“At today’s council meeting, the council leader announced that there will be an important gathering after the Youth Festival. Every noble family is expected to attend.”
“Did they say why?” Jasmina asked.
“No. They only said it concerns the future of the kingdom.”
His mother nodded thoughtfully.
“I understand.”
“Now can I stay here?” Onxy asked.
“No,” Jasmina said quickly.
“Go and change. You’re making the floor wet.”
Onxy sighed dramatically.
“You’re impossible.”
“And you’re annoying.”
Their mother laughed softly.
“You two never change.”
Jasmina stood up.
“Oh, and you’re coming with me tomorrow.”
“Where?”
“To collect my festival dress.”
“Why would I do that?”
Jasmina smiled.
“Because you’re my handsome brother.”
“Flattery won’t work on me.”
“Please?”
Onxy folded his arms and sighed.
“I suppose I can come, but only because Mother would probably make me go anyway.”
Jasmina grinned.
“Thank you, dear brother.”
“Don’t thank me yet. I’m already regretting it.”
She laughed.
“You’re no fun.”
“And you’re a nuisance.”
“A nuisance who is five minutes younger than you.”
“Exactly,” Onxy said proudly.
“Which makes me the older and wiser twin.”
“That’s debatable.”
Their mother shook her head with a smile as the twins continued their usual bickering.