Chapter Text
Back at the Heart Castle, Peter too had fallen asleep, but his slumber was far from dreamless.
“So, I assume this was a good night...except for the part where she ran away in tears.”
“I just don’t understand.” Peter replied softly. “She clearly loves me...why does she act so strangely?”
Nightmare gave him a somewhat sympathetic smile. “Perhaps Alice herself does not know what she wants. And even if she does, it may be difficult for her to accept. I doubt she’d consider it a point of pride to fall in love with a clingy, murderous rabbit-man who kidnaps young girls in his free time.”
“But I absolutely adore her! And who cares about those dirty, unclean masses? I would rather die than ever cause her any harm!”
“All the same…”
“Nightmare please, I must know.” Peter pleaded. “...Will she stay with me in Wonderland? Will she forget about going home?” He paused, and took a breath. “...Will she ever come to love me?”
“I can’t predict the future or do anything to change it. Everything is on her now. Whatever she decides is what will play out. The best you can do is try not to hurt your chances...so good luck.” Nightmare finished.
Peter lowered his head in distress. ...But I need her here, with me. “Thank you.” he responded quietly.
“Happy birthday.” Nightmare wished before leaving Peter alone with his thoughts.
******
Alice wasn’t awake for more than a minute before the events of the previous night came flooding back to her. She sat up, let out a groan and went to the kitchen to fix the morning’s coffee. There she found Julius already up and waiting for her.
“What happened at that party?”
She stopped and stood staring for a moment, then sighed. “...I kissed Peter.”
“Why?”
“...I don’t know! ...It was for his birthday...but it also wasn’t. I really don’t know and I’m confused. ...I just need to sort all this out...later. For now I’m just going to keep to myself.”
Julius sighed. “As long as you’re ok then.” He went back to reassembling some clocks on the table. Ten minutes later Alice returned with two cups of espresso, her face still tinged with anxiety. “Julius took a sip from his mug. “90 points.” he announced.
Alice looked up in surprise. “What? No way. I know I left it on for too long!” She smiled. “You’re just trying to distract me aren’t you?”
“No, truly, well done. I’d recommend you always mope about whenever brewing, but I doubt I’d know what to do.”
She smirked. “I’m half shocked you didn’t suffocate me in my sleep last night for being so upset.”
Julius straightened, decidedly finished with their friendly chatter. “Well, now it is day, so I suggest you act accordingly and go get dressed.”
Aaaaaaand the old Julius returns. Alice thought with a warm smile. ...But a good friend all the same. With her worries temporarily abandoned, she returned to her room and prepared for the day to come.
******
I love you Alice...and should you stay I promise I will make you happy...even if you choose another...I swear it.
End