"Wow," I whispered, the weight of their concern settling in the air like a heavy fog. Maisie's innocent question pierced through me like an arrow, and a lump formed in my throat. Taking Maisie's hand in mine, I summoned a smile, though it felt brittle on my lips.
"And you're a princess now?" Maisie's innocent curiosity tugged at my heartstrings, making me long to shield her from the harsh realities of the world. Laughing softly, I reached out for her tiny hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.
"I always was princesse, but soon, maybe be I become the sub-commander wife," I replied, a flicker of determination igniting within me. Maisie's enthusiastic response, her little hand meeting mine in a high five, warmed me from within.
"I'm going to be a princess when I grow up, too!" Maisie's exclamation filled the air, her joy infectious.
