Chapter Text
Jon stopped his chair from swiveling, the bill on his hand already making his head ache this early in the morning. He made a quick calculation in his head and cuss as he realized they’ll be short again this month. The café where he had a part-time job on weekends had recently closed, leaving them on a tight budget once again. The only saving grace is that they had only three months left on the house’s amortization and they’ll be rent-free forever. However, he still needs to pay the month overdue.
“What’s got you brooding this early in the morning, Stark? The door got your tiny pecker?”
“Leave him alone, Tormund.” Sam quipped in, though Jon can hear the snicker in his best friend’s voice as well.
“Uh oh, is that another bill, Stark?” Theon snatched the paper from hand and groaned when he saw it.
Finally turning his attention to his friends, he let out an audible sigh, “Aye. Money’s a bit short again.”
“Oh, sorry, Jon.” Sam offered an apologetic look at him. “What a bummer.”
“You know I’d lend you some if I have money, but you know how my sister hogs them all, she only gives me enough for my allowance.”
“Isn’t Yara in college now? What, she wires the money to you, now?”
“Exactly. And she wires them by schedule, can’t even get a little extra.”
Theon wasn’t exactly his friend by choice. He was Robb’s friend, and had always been a bit arrogant and pesky for Jon’s liking. But ever since Robb died, he had joined their little group. Since then it had always been Jon, Sam, Tormund and Theon. Robb used to hang out with the cooler crowds, but Jon and himhad always been close, being twins and all.
Everything was so different when he was still alive, more so when their parents were alive. Now, Jon and his siblings are constantly struggling make ends meet.
The bell rang just as Professor Lannister entered the room. Jon swears he does it on purpose; wait for the perfect time to enter,for a dramatic effect. Professor Jamie is a substitute for his way more competent and smarter brother, Tyrion, who is currently at KLU for a conference. Jon thinks the school money’s wasted on him since he had been doing nothing but stare at himself in class. He is an actor of some sort but couldn’t handle a literature class to save himself.
Huffing, they all went to their seats. Just before Professor Lannister entered, Daenerys Targaryen did, walking straight into her seat as she had always done. She rarely speaks in class and to Jon, she almost always look at everyone in disdain, as if she’s superior to any of them. That’s what happens when you have money. She’s not a particularly good student and she never answers in class, it’s no wonder why she still passes all her subjects when they know how even education can be bought; and her father can certainly afford it. Jon wonders why bother coming to school at all.
He made a mistake of staring too long and she caught him looking at her and glared at him. Jon did the same.
Gods, I hate her.
During lunch break, Jon is still reeling about the impending bill overdue. If only he could find another part-time, but so far, every opportunity in town seems to have gone, given that it’s almost summer and more students are looking for jobs to occupy their time and get a little money while at it.
Tormund nudged his shoulder which made Jon spilled his drink a little since Tormund always forgets what a big guy he is, “You know who got money, Stark?”
His friend nodded his head at the table at the end of the cafeteria. Sitting there with her nanny and bodyguard was Daenerys Targaryen. Who needs a nanny at this age, seriously?
“I know she got money, what’s your point, Tormund? It’s not like I can borrow some from her, as if we’re friends with her.”
Sam chuckled as he popped fries into his mouth. “She’s looking for a tutor.”
He snorted, “Good luck finding one. She doesn’t even have a friend. She’s always acting so mighty. She doesn’t even talk to anyone.”
“Chill out, Jon. We know you had a thing for her, no need to remind us.” Theon chortled. When will they ever forget that? And he did not had a thing for her.
She was a transferee last year. And Jon being the class president deemed it fit that he welcome her during her first day. He even offered to show her around campus, and was met with “I got it. Mr. Selmy has a map and blueprint of the place.”
“It was one time, Theon. One time. And I didn’t have a thing for her.”
“But you’ve hated her ever since.”
The boys laughed, as if they are friends with Daenerys. She doesn’t pay any attention to them either. Like Theon’s flirting skills were so obviously snubbed and even Tormund’s jokes fell on her deaf ears. She was nice enough to Sam, since Sam never goes anywhere near her. He pointed it out to them, but they just all just shrugged it off.
“Well, we weren’t the one caught badmouthing her.”
“I was just agreeing to what you said.” He pointed at Theon. “I was the only one caught.”
Theon smirked, cocking his head in Daenerys’direction, “Well, she didn’t know that.” He winked at Jon.
It was before the third period and they were hanging out by the door. Theon said something about Daenerys being the guarded and pampered spoiled brat that she is, ignoring him when he offered to take lunch with her. Jon just agreed that it’s pointless to guard her since no one would even go near her in fear of her bratty attitude. Of course, Daenerys had to be walking past them when he said that.
“But seriously, Jon, she got the money.” Sam reminded him. The other two nodded in agreement, with Tormund grinning at him, teasing about how Jon could probably take this chance to take another shot to impress Daenerys; as if he wants to impress her. He needs the money but how could he stomach spending time with someone who hates him as much as he hates her?
“No.”
“Heard they’re paying in advance ‘cause her parents have to leave soon. That should be enough to cover your overdue and at least two month’s advance rental?”
Jon swallowed, making a quick calculation in his head once again. That’ll be a great relief to him and his siblings. Sansa had been doing tutoring sessions with her own classmates to cover up groceries. If they could somehow pay for the overdue and advance, they could save up for the last payment without a doubt.
“For real?” He asked.
“Yes. Her family is filthy rich, she’s basically a princess.”
Jon considered it; it’s literally a golden opportunity. But–
“No, not her.” He wonders how they’ll be able to work together, what if he said something so mean to her and her dad decided to take the money back? He’ll be indebted to them, then.
Tormund huffed, “Well, Wylla is nice and all but we both know she only wants you as tutor so she could flirt with you outside school”, he wiggled his brows at Jon. It’s true, they’ve always known Wylla is a big flirt, but she seems to be leaning into Jon more.
“But–“
“And you admitted it was becoming annoying.”
It was becoming annoying. Jon’s running out of excuses just to dodge her invitations– whether it be a party or movie or just coffee. He doesn’t want her to think he’s into her.
“Aye. And she pays shit. Her family may be nice but cakes and sandwiches ain’t going to cover your bill, boy.”
Tormund is two years older than them, he had started school late and had to take a year off due to his knee injury when he was a boy, that’s why he always talk to Jon like he’s a little boy, in addition to being half his size. He may have been at the same maturity level with Jon and the rest but he certainly is some kind of protective big brother to them when it comes to bullies. Tormund’s the reason the “cool kids” stopped making fun of Jon, Sam and Theon during fifth grade.
“They do have a point, Jon. Daenerys needs a tutor; you’re the best in class. You need the money. So, I say it’s a win win.”
Jon considered this for a moment, they’re not wrong of course and Jon see the logic in that. He knows Mr. Targaryen would probably pay him any amount he wants if it means his only daughter can get good grades to get into an ivy league school.
“She’s so annoying though. And haughty, does she really have to flaunt that she has the money by brining in the limo every day?”
“Do you really think the Targaryens go anywhere without their fancy cars and drivers?”
“And bodyguard? What did they think will happen to her here?”
“She’s the only Targaryen heir left, Jon. They must be protecting her like gold by now.”
“And you know how she’s the only heir left now, with her brothers being gone and all. Did you hear what happened?”
“Doesn’t mean she needs to shove it up our faces though”, he mumbled. “Wait, she has brothers?”
Jon was only half listening now since his phone buzzed in his pocket.
SANSA: Pipes are busted again. Also, water bill came. :(
Upon reading the text from Sansa, Jon thought he had no choice but to swallow his pride, let go of his ego and be a tutor to one Daenerys Targaryen, even if it kills him.
“So, you have like, what, three siblings?”
Daenerys is sitting at the edge of the table, doodling on her notebook while Jon explains the math problem to her and the easiest way to solve it.
“Four.”
She hummed, still not paying attention to their lesson. It’s been a two weeks and Jon still doesn’t know how to keep her attention. He swears Daenerys Targaryen has an attention span of a five-year old, he had told his friends much and they just laughed at him. What’s more annoying is that she seems to be doing it on purpose. He doesn’t want to believe Theon when he said maybe Jon’s just too boring, that’s why she doesn’t pay attention.
“I thought you have a twin?”
He glared at her, before turning back his attention on the work at hand. It’s still a sore topic for him, and the way she’s asking just annoyed him more. She annoys him, everything she does screams pampered little princess.
“Hey, I asked you a question.” She glared at him once again, tapping her shoe on the side of table.
Clenching his jaw, he had to remind himself why he’s here at the dragon’s lair, sacrificing what’s left of his pride to spend an hour or two with the Targaryen snob. You need the money, Jon.
“Had”, he answered. “Let’s just focus on the lesson.”
She mumbled something incoherently, resuming her doodling. He flipped her notebook to the blank page, tapped and gave her a pointed look. Rolling her eyes at him, she started working.
“So annoying.” He whispered under his breath, thinking she didn’t hear him.
“You’re annoying.” She retorted back.
They glared at each other before their staring contest was interrupted by her maid, brining in snacks for them.
Jon doesn’t know what’s more annoying: when Daenerys Targaryen had acted like he doesn’t exist but glares at him any chance their eyes meet, or when she’s being so nosy and talkative, asking about everything and anything under the sun. He decided the latter. At least she’s quiet before, now she’s too chatty for his liking. It’s worst when she’s both rude and chatty at the same time, it’s a nightmare.
“You know, I don’t get why you’re so rude to me. I’m paying you.” She said, scribbling on the corners of her notebook once again. He found she likes drawing, really likes them. The edges of almost every page of her notes are filled with doodles. He had to give it to her though; she’s actually quite good at it. But hell will freeze over before he admits to it, and she’s really annoying.
He had to take a breath before responding or else he doesn’t know what can come out of his mouth in response to that.
“Your dad is paying me. Not you”, he responded with a bite on his tone.
“It’s Targaryen money, it’d be mine someday.”
She’s infuriating.
“Are you always this arrogant?”
“Are you always this judge-y?”
“Need I remind you that you were rude to me first,” he replied.
She cocked her head, raising a brow at him as if waiting for him to clarify, as if she doesn’t remember. How could she not remember her first day of school, and how could she not remember every moment since when she’s been nothing but unfriendly towards him.
He put his pen down, lifting his head up to her still arrogant stance, “I was nice to you during your first day, and you were the rude one. It was the first day of school, you don’t remember?”
She appeared to think for a second and Jon could see realization dawning on her. There’s something else there, was it embarrassment? No, sadness, it was sadness; it was only fleeting and gone on her expression in a second.
“Huh. Yeah.” That’s what all she said before turning back to their work. He could tell there’s something more there but he didn’t want to ask. What does her care anyway? So, rich people can still be unhappy, bummer. What, is the cote de boeuf not to their liking?
Before leaving her house, a helper called out to him, shoving a paper bag into his hand. “You don’t need to keep giving me take-outs.” He said shyly.
“Nonsense. Miss Daenerys always reminds us not to forget to make extra for you. She said to make enough so you could bring home some to your siblings.”
“I’m not a beggar.”
The helper waved her hand, “No. I didn’t mean it like that. I should not have told you. Miss Daenerys told me I shouldn’t tell you.”
“I can still feed my siblings, if that’s what she’s insinuating.”
“No, Mr. Stark. Miss Daenerys is a really nice girl. She just wants to help and you misunderstand.” She put the paper bag on his hand again, “Please take it. She’d be sad if you don’t.”
“She won’t care what I think.”
“Please, Mr. Stark. Miss Daenerys has always been a lonely child. It’s good to see her making some friends.”
Jon took the bag and said his thanks. When he told his siblings what happened, still offended about it, they ignored him, too happy with the food he brought home.
“She was just being nice, Jon.” Bran told him as he munched on the sandwiches. Bloody traitors.
“You don’t even know her. Daenerys Targaryen isn’t nice.”
Rickon, with bit of ketchup smeared on his chin said, “Arya said she’s really pretty, like a princess.”
“You know, maybe give her a chance, maybe you’d be friends.”
He groaned at Sansa’s suggestion, reminding her of that one time he was actually nice to her and she was nothing but snobby. He'd tried approaching him again but his pride just won't let him, add that to the insult and embarrassment he'd be getting.
Jon said he’ll never have to deal with her again once the tutoring gig was done. Of course, she just told him to stop being a jerk, maybe Daenerys just needed a friend and all that.
“Miss Daenerys has always been a lonely child. It’s good to see her making some friends.”
He felt guilty that night, mostly because his siblings were pestering him about it. Rickon even told Jon to follow his own advice, to be nice to others and make as many friends as possible. He said that during the little guy’s first day at school when Rick had been so nervous to start school.
Well, here goes nothing. He fished his phone out of his pocket, scrolling to the new contact. He deemed it necessary to get her number so they could coordinate their schedules more efficiently. He took a long breath and typed out.
JON: Thanks for the food. My siblings enjoyed it.
DAENERYS: Sure.
Okay, that wasn’t that bad. Jon decided to leave it at that, he didn’t have a restful sleep through the night.
This is pointless, Jon thought as he watched Daenerys choose music for the turntable. It’s pointless to tutor someone who doesn’t even make the effort to learn. Just last week, she had fallen asleep while they were studying physics. When he tried to wake her up, she just swatted his hand away and snuggled closer to her bed. That’s the reason Jon decided to have their session anywhere without a bed, which proves still unfruitful because almost anything can distract her from her lessons. Sometimes it’d be one of her staff, whom she would chat with for an inordinate amount of time, or the kids playing right across the street, or just being nosy about Jon’s family.
He must admit the turntable really does look exquisite, like a million bucks for sure, but what did her really expect from the Targaryens? Theon had always said they must be shitting gold too, the way they live. It’s always a wonder to him why they have relocated here in the North, where the best they could do is Winter High.
“Why here?” He asked her.
“Why here what?”
“Why did you move here? You guys are so rich I’d expect your father would want a more prestigious school than Winter High.”
“It’s not permanent. We always move from place to place. May parent’s business and all that.”
Figures. Of course the likes of them can’t stay at one place. They must have vacation houses at every corner of the country, given how often her parents travel. That’s one of the things he first noticed when he started coming here, she was always alone. The house staff is present of course, but she’s alone.
“Miss Daenerys has always been a lonely child.”
Why, just why does that information pester him this much? If he hadn’t spent much time with Daenerys, he’d just brush that knowledge off. But ever since then, he’d see glimpse of a lonely girl. Sometimes the mask comes off and he feels sorry for her. She has both her parents but she’s as orphaned as Jon and his siblings.
“Must be tough.”
She chuckled, though when Jon looked up at her, the mask was off and he could see the sadness in her eyes, “Yeah, but… yeah, you get used to it.”
Daenerys got up, “Not getting attached is the key.”
TORMUND: Jon, you done with homework?
THEON: Why? You gonna copy again?
SAM: Shut up, Theon. You both copy from Jon.
JON: Just got home, and no, I am not letting any of you copy from me anymore. Do your own damn home works.
TORMUND: You’ve changed, man. :(
THEON: Come on, just this once. :(
SAM: You said that the last time, Theon. :P
TORMUND: Jon’s been taken by the dark side. He’d rather Daenerys copy his work instead. Noooo. Come back to us, brother.
JON: Shut up, Tormund.
JON: And I don’t let her copy, she makes her own.
JON: You two should do the same.
TORMUND: No shit, our boy is in love. <3
THEON: What’s that thing about couples?
THEON: The ones fans made?
SAM: Do you mean shipper?
THEON: Hells yeah, Jon + Daenerys shippers.
JON: Ha ha. Very funny, guys.
TORMUND: Let it be known that this day, the Jonerys fandom was born.
SAM: Did I miss something?
SAM: You got a crush on her now, Jon?
SAM: You should ask her out.
JON: No, I don’t. Stop making things up and do your home works. Brb.
TORMUND: Oh, he’s off to kiss his new girlfriend good night.
THEON: Daenerys missed on this Greyjoy goodness because she wanted a Stark instead. Her lost.
SAM: Daenerys is way out of your league, Theon. :P
THEON: Hey. Want me to help you with Gilly or not?
TORMUND: Boooo! No one wants Greyjoy “TED Talk.”
Jon put his phone on DND mode, this conversation will go all night and he’s not gonna be there watching all the ways Theon “teaches” Sam the ways to woo a girl. Theon doesn’t even have a girlfriend, but Sam was desperate. He went out of his room to check on his siblings before going to sleep.
He checked her instagram account, curious about all the places she’s been. Sure enough, her feed is full of beautiful sceneries– from beaches to mountains to city lights. It’s all beautiful, but something tugs at Jon’s heartstrings. There is not a single family photo in there. She had one with a friend called Missy. It was dated years ago but when he checked the other girls’ profile, he saw throwback photos with Daenerys. I guess she has one friend, at least.
Still, it looks like she’s overseas, which explains why they don’t have any recent photos together. It must be really lonely being Daenerys Targaryen.
“This is a great song, don’t you think?” Daenerys flips the remote in her hand, turning the volume up, as if the music isn’t blasting on his eardrums yet. He ignored her and continued solving the equation while explaining each step to her.
“So you just need to really get the factor of this one first, and then from that…” He yelled over the music, to a non-attentive Daenerys dancing to the beat and just twirling around her room. “Daenerys, we really need to get this done.”
“Live a little, Jon Snow.” She pause just enough to flash him a smile. Gods, she’s super annoying but when she smiles like that, he can’t help but remember how beautiful she is. His heart did this weird flip, he hated the feeling.
“Daenerys, the exams are next week. If you don’t get a good grade, your father is gonna think he’s paying me for nothing.”
That made her stop, suddenly turning serious as she told him, “My father doesn’t care about shit. I doubt he even remembers he has a daughter.”
He snorted, “Well if I were as rich as you, I probably won’t need a tutor. I bet your dad can just buy your way into college.”
Jon then realized how quiet it has become. Daenerys had turned the music off. She snatched the notebook away from him, writing down without paying any attention to him. He wanted to apologize, he didn’t mean it that way but it just came out, and it’s not like it’s not true. He wonders why her father insists on getting her a tutor and good grades when he could literally bend anyone to his will with all the money he has. Jon isn’t naïve; he knows money makes the world go round. And that even without a stellar academic record and soaring GPA, the Targaryens of the world will always beat the Starks.
“Here. You may go now, Jon Snow. I’ll see you at school tomorrow. You can give me pointers then.”
The sudden change in her mood took him off-kilter. Jon knows when he’s not welcome anymore so he started getting his things off the table.
“Uh, okay.” He shoved the notebook at his backpack, got up and went home.
“Maybe she just hated it when people talk about her family like that.”
“Like what, like they’re filthy rich? Sansa, they ARE filthy rich. Jon was just stating facts.”
“But maybe she just wants to be more than that, you know? Maybe she’s tired of being seen as a spoiled brat who gets her way in everything.”
“Doesn’t she?” He and Arya said in unison.
Sansa rolled her eyes at them; she’s watched too many dramas. “I’m just saying, maybe she just wants a friend. I mean, I often see her at the cafeteria, eating alone.”
“She’s with her bodyguard and nanny.”
“That’s not the same thing.”
“Sure is, if it means I get to eat steak everyday for lunch.”
“You know what I mean. She doesn’t have anybody. Everyone at school hates her because they either wanna date her but she won’t or they want to be her but can’t.”
“Which one are you?” Arya snorted.
“I don’t hate her. I feel sorry for her.”
“Now you make me wanna eat steak. It’s been so long since we’ve had one.”
It’s true. With how tight their budget is, Jon could never recall the last time they had eaten steak. Before their dad and mom died, they live comfortably. Even more before Robb got sick. After that, it was just all downhill from there.
“You know what? Let’s have some on Bran’s birthday.”
“Really? But what about the bills, Jon?”
He shook his head at them, offering a comforting smile at their worried faces, “It’s gonna be alright. I think we can make room for some steak. Besides, you know Mr. Targaryen paid me in advanced.”
“Uh, Jon, these are all done.”
“Huh? What do you mean?”
Jon had been too annoyed– both at himself and Daenerys– to bother checking her answers. He had already done his own homework and so he had asked Sansa to compare them instead. Arya could not be bothered with it, but still followed them to his room, just to poke her nose about Daenerys.
“Why do I even have to cross-check? You both have the same answer.”
That made him get up. He was sure Daenerys wasn’t listening to a word he said, she hasn’t been listening since the second meeting.
“Are you sure? That yellow one’s her notebook Mine’s the other.”
Sansa glared at him, “Well, duh? Don’t you think I would never know my brother’s notebook, let alone handwriting?”
“Hey, wait. Look, you both have the same answer but different solutions.” Arya grabbed the notebooks, passing it to him.
They were right. They both got the correct answers, but not the same solution. Hers seem a bit shorter, who knew you could get the answer with that shortcut?
“Maybe she cheated. She just copied your answer and made up her own solution. Rickon does it every time, Bran just too smart not to catch him.”
“Well?”
His sisters looked at him expectantly, as if waiting for a plot twist in a movie. He’d have to look a bit more closely at the equation but it does seem like she used advanced problem-solving strategy and somehow got all the answers right.
“She couldn’t have cheated. She was standing up the whole time I was solving, blasting out Taylor Swift.”
“Oh, she’s a Swiftie? I love her already.”
Arya groaned. They both knew Sansa is a huge Taylor Swift fan and might have suffer a few headaches as she blasted the speakers up at 6 in the morning, in one occasion or two.
“Maybe she’s listening after all.” Arya flopped back to the bed, now uninterested in the story. She has always been one to lose focus easily since she was a child. She’s to active, always wanting to be moving around.
“Maybe.” He answered nonchalantly.
“Maybe she’s secretly really smart.” Sansa quipped in.
“Yeah, right. That’s why she’s been flunking and needs a tutor.”
What if she is?
But why hide it?
“Alright, you two. Off my bed, now. I actually have to sleep. And there are still classes tomorrow.”
“It’s a Friday so it doesn’t count.”
“It’s still a school day. Go, you two.”
“Alright, grandpa, we’re going.”
“Maybe she’s secretly really smart.”
He had double-checked, triple-checked her homework last night and there’s no doubt it was an advance strat she used. She was even able to solve it in five minutes, literally without sitting down. Jon couldn’t bring Sansa’s argument out of his mind, and so he had spent the last two classes observing her.
“What’s up with you now, Stark? Finally gave into the Targaryen charm?”
Of course, out of all the people, it has to be Theon who had caught him. Sure enough, their entire little group had turned their attention to him, looking at him and Daenerys back and forth.
He had spent the weekend wondering about it. He hadn’t confronted Daenerys yet, he needs to observe her a bit more. Sansa’s voice kept nagging at him; he couldn’t sleep even if he wanted to.
“Shut up, Theon.”
“Oh, Jon’s got a crush.”
“It’s not that. It’s just… something weird happened.”
Theon clasped his hands together, “Now, we’re talking.”
“Get your mind out of the gutter, Greyjoy. It’s not that.”
Sam had finally joined them. Finally, an intellectual, Jon thought in relief. Maybe Sam will understand his predicament. Soon enough, Tormund sat as well. So he told them what happened.
“Right?” He asked the group as he finished.
He was met with bellowing laughter, and a few seconds later the other students are starting to stare at their group. When he turns his head into Daenerys’ direction, she was looking at them with a puzzled look on her face as well. Then she squint her eyes at him, as if knowing they’re talking about her.
“Come on, Sam,” he looked at him expectantly.
“I don’t know, Jon. I don’t really know her to actually know, you know?” He said, at least Sam looked a bit apologetic for laughing at him, unlike the other two who are still chuckling and saying it was a great joke.
“Why would she do that, Stark? Huh?” Tormund cackled.
Jon shrugged, he doesn’t know either.
TORMUND: Yo! Is Jon Stark still obsessing over the silver princess?
THEON: Silver princess, you could write poetry, man.
JON: Bad poetry.
THEON: Look, he’s alive!
SAM: So, Gilly said Daenerys is actually nice. She saw her at the coffee shop once.
SAM: Maybe Jon’s on to something.
TORMUND: Because she’s nice?
SAM: I’m just saying we don’t really know her.
JON: Maybe we could back off on judging, that’s what Sam is saying.
TORMUND: Oh, my mighty hero, Jon Stark.
THEON: Have come to rescue me, my prince? Lololol
JON: You’re both hopeless.
JON: And gods, you are corny.
As soon as he walked into the door, he asked her how she managed to get all the answers right. Even using another method to solve them. He could tell she was taken aback but she quickly recovered.
“I just… guessed it. Yeah, that’s right.” She lifted her chin, though he’s short, he’s still towering over her.
“You guessed it?”
“Uhuh.” She mumbled, suddenly finding the edge of the coffee table interesting.
“All ten items, with perfect solutions using advanced strat that I’m sure we’ll not learn until next month?”
“Yes, I supposed I’m good a t guessing.” She said, tilting up her chin higher, confidently, though Jon can see she’s anxious.
“Daenerys, please don’t insult my intelligence. You already beat me up at homework; don’t make me look stupid again.”
She cocked her brow, crossing her arms against her chest as if challenging him to prove her wrong. He held her stare, mimicking her posture as he cross his arms on this chest as well.
“Maybe you’re just not as smart as you thought.”
“And maybe I was just hallucinating when I saw you reading The Art of War.”
In his investigation, he had often caught her with a book or two in hand while in her limo. She never brought them out, not once but he was sure she reads them.
“Are you stalking me?”
Jon felt his cheeks go hot. He wasn’t. Yes, he did but not for the purpose she thinks. He had to observe, yes observe is the right word, and observe her to confirm his suspicions.
“It was my dad’s; he left it in the limo.”
“Hmm. And the spelling bee champion medal I saw on your desk the first day I was here?”
“Not mine. My brother’s.”
He chuckled, “Sure, your brother’s name is Daenerys too.”
Give It up. He thought, smirking at her. “Come on, Daenerys.”
They resume their staring contest for a while, and after a few minutes, her shoulders slumped and she sighed. She moved closer to him.
“I’ll kill you if you tell anyone.”
“Godsdammit, Daenerys. You’re like, really smart. You solved the problems only half the time I did.”
She smiled before sipping on her lemonade, “You were overcomplicating it. You went and solved two equations separately when you could treat them as one. And you used the long method.”
“Well, I am sorry, princess but I haven’t learned the short method yet.”
“Don’t call me that. I don’t like being called that.”
“It doesn’t have to be an insult, you know?”
“But you make it sound like one. All of you do.”
He was preparing for a rebuttal but a knock made them look on the doorway. Soon enough, Marya was entering the room with a club sandwich and lemon tarts for dessert. He found out Daenerys really loved lemons. His mouth watered at the sight, Marya’s cooking is one of the best he had tasted, really. She always makes an extra batch for Jon to take home to his siblings as he learned Daenerys had instructed.
“Thank you, Marya. These look phenomenal as usual.” Daenerys told her, smiling at the help. If he hadn’t spent the last few weeks seeing how Daenerys interacted with the family staff and helpers, he would have been surprised at seeing her nicely treating Marya. He had slowly learned that maybe he hadn’t really know Daenerys Targaryen.
“Always a pleasure, Miss Daenerys.”
She gave her a pointed look. “Marya, I told you it’s Dany.”
“Sorry, Miss Daenerys. I cannot be comfortable with calling you just Daenerys. You’d have to forgive this old lady.”
Daenerys just shook her head as Marya waved goodbye, not before reminding him that the extra batch is by the table outside. He said his thanks.
“Dany? That’s your nickname?”
“Uh huh, my brothers came up with it.” She smiled wistfully, the constant sadness in her eyes returning. “Said my name’s a mouthful.” She chuckled.
“It’s nice.” He smiled at her. It’s like every time spent with her, he peels of another layer of Daenerys Targaryen, making it known to him that she is not the self-entitled brat he always believed her to be.
“Wait, we’re getting off topic here. So, you’re smart.”
“I’m not.” She retorted, smiling back.
“Okay, so you’re a genius, then.”
She hit him with a pillow, “I am not. I’m just not… dumb, like you all thought.”
“I–“
“Don’t deny it. I know what everyone thought of me.”
She’s more than not dumb, she’s really smart, as Jon had told her. She was just holding back, pretending.
“Why are you pretending then?” He had asked because for the life of him, he could not figure out why someone would deliberately try to fail high school.
“A story for another time.”
He wanted to argue with her but just then, another maid had come up to tell them that her parents are home and she must prepare herself for a family dinner, as ordered by her mother. She watched as the smile from her face dropped.
Jon had walked home, pondering why she would subject herself to such situation and embarrassment. He had often heard the girls at the school call her a dimwit, or talking about her back saying she got beauty and all that but no brains at all. Surely, she knows what they say about her.
So why?
After the confrontation, he and Daenerys have fallen into a somewhat peaceful arrangement. He still goes to her house to tutor her, which Jon thought was ridiculous at this point. But he’s already been paid, and he really cannot give the money back since he’s already used to pay their bills and rent.
Usually, they just sat quietly, doing their homework in a shared space. Sometimes they would ask each other about their other classes. If Jon is totally honest, he and Daenerys have started, sort of, being friends. When he’s not annoyed at her antics, he found she’s really fun to be around. And she’s really kind to everyone in the house; he could tell how everyone respects and adore the girl. Their family driver, Davos, who happened to live near Jon’s house have told him many stories about Daenerys’ kindness, not just to him and Marya but to their entire family. She had once volunteered to have all their grandkids at the Targaryen house when their roof came off during a storm. Their grandchildren all loved Daenerys one would think she’s their mother, Davos recalled to him.
She’s a good kid, you know? Very kind, really smart too. I wish she would stop hiding herself.
That’s what Marya told him the first time he came here. Of course at the time, Jon just thought she was being polite.
He was taken out of his reverie when she snapped her book shut, standing up and appearing to wait for him to do the same.
“Okay, Jon Snow. Now that you know my secret, how about I show you something interesting?”
“What now? Are you gonna tell me you have a real life dragon too?” He snickered.
“Up, Jon Snow.” She ordered, pulling the book off his hands. “Come on.”
“Gods, she’s bossy.” He mumbled, which she didn’t miss. Instead of glaring at him though as she had always done, she smirked at him and made a gesture indicating he follow her.
Still putting his other shoe, he followed her out of the room, “Wait, you’re not gonna murder me or something, right?”
She laughed, continuing to walk the hallway. He’s never been to this side of the house, too scared to wander around in fear of being lost. Looking up, he found paintings on the walls. There are flowers and a harp at the end of the hall. Jon had never seen an actual harp before, and this one looks expensive. Very expensive, with glittering stones and all that.
“My siblings know I’m here. You’re not gonna get away with murder, Daenerys Targaryen.”
“Well, I just might. I am smart enough to pull one off and hide it.”
“Eh.” He poked fun at her.
She turned, giving him a ‘don’t try me, Jon Snow’ look.
“Oh gods, do not John Kramer-ed me.”
“She stopped in her tracks and looked back at him in confusion. “Who’s that?”
“Seriously?”
She kept staring at him, her brows shooting up; it makes her look like a little kid. Her hair is braided in pigtails, making her too adorable for his liking. She’s really cute like this. He thought.
Wait, what?
He cleared his throat, “SAW franchise?”
She shook her head.
“Seriously, you’ve never seen the movies?”
She shook her head again, her braids dancing along her movement.
“Have you seen any movies?” He asked feeling stupid. Of course she’d seen movies; her entire family must be renting the entire movie house whenever they go to see one.
She continued walking then, with him now walking beside her. “No. My dad said it’s a waste of time. I used to though, when my brothers are alive but not anymore.”
“Wow, and here you are lecturing me about “living a little”, such hypocrisy, Dany.”
Her head snapped back at him, making him aware of his slip. He had unintentionally called her by her nickname. He didn’t think they were at that stage yet, he’s not even 100% they’re friends. Maybe he’s the only one thinking that. He’s just her tutor.
But she doesn’t really need one. His mind whispered.
“Uh, sorry, I didn’t mean to. It just slipped, I didn’t want to assume that–“
“Jon? Hey”, she chuckled, “It’s okay. We’re cool.”
He smiled back at her.
They stopped in front of a two-door room, the design is so intricate you’d think it’s centuries old from Kings and Queens themselves which actually doesn’t sound so far-fetched knowing who’s standing beside him now. It was a glass door but there’s a curtain behind it that Jon cannot peek inside the room. Dany opened the door and his nostril was filled with the smell of fresh books and flowers.
“Welcome to my base.” She said, stepping into the room.
He was right. It’s as elegant as he imagined. There are books after books at every nook and turn. There is a small area for coffee and snacks, and by the big window are bean bags, tables and chairs for reading. The whole room is basked in sunlight, the walls and windows all made of glass from floor to ceiling. There are flowers everywhere and soft music playing from a glass turntable. It’s as if he stepped up into another world where fairies lived, it’s like taken out of a fairytale book page.
“Woah.”
That was all he managed to say as he followed Dany.
“You’re telling me you have this at your house and we’ve spent the sessions at your bedroom?
She laughed, “First of all, that wasn’t my bedroom.”
“What do you mean, there’s a bed there.”
“That’s a study room for our guest.”
“There’s a bed there.” He repeated and Dany kept laughing at him.
“It was just moved there for the time being, while the upper room was being renovated. Besides, I wasn’t sure I liked you yet to show you this part of house, Jon Snow.”
So, you like me now? Shut up, brain.
Jon felt his cheeks go hot, and he decided to change the subject. “I saw a harp outside.”
“Ah, that was my brother’s.”
He wanted to ask more but she moved away to pick up biscuits and iced cappuccino from the countertop. She asked whether he wanted some chips too.
As they were eating, Jon could not help but ask why he was still here as her tutor.
“I mean, you obviously don’t need me. I feel like your dad’s paying me for nothing. You’re smarter than I am.”
“Doubt it.”
“You are though, stop pretending. I already know all your secrets.”
She threw her head back laughing; she’s laughing more often now and Jon found he enjoy it. When she smiles, her eyes squint so hard and her laugh is so contagious– so full of life. She’s also less guarded and friendlier now, at least when it’s only the two of them.
“If you have to know more, I’d really have to kill you, Jon Snow.”
He groaned. It’s so weird when people call him Jon Snow, he had always complained about his second name since he was six. All of the Stark children do.
“You really hate your second name, Jon Snow.” She pushed, still laughing. He knew it. He just knew she was doing it to piss him off. It doesn’t piss him off now though, not like before.
“It’s so… weird. It’s a girl’s name, Theon would always tease me. As if Robb’s was so masculine, Autumn.” He chuckled.
“You could just drop your last name altogether then. Just be Jon Snow instead of Jon Snow Stark It sounds cooler.
“Okay, let’s establish something here. You, Daenerys Targaryen are in no authority to decide on what’s a cool name and what’s not. Yours sounds like from centuries ago. What kind of name is Daenerys Targaryen?”
“First of all, yes it’s from centuries ago because if we are to believe the legends and myths, Targaryens are actually descendants of gods and goddesses who rode dragons millions of years ago.”
“Nerd.”
“Takes one to know one,” she smirked at him.
“Seriously, I feel like I’m doing something bad. I was paid, and I am not doing my job here.”
“Don’t mind it. Do you?”
“Just feels like I’m a robber of some sort.”
“Well, don’t. Aerys Targaryen has enough money to take to the next lifetime.” She said as she turned to face the window. There’s too many moments like this with her, moments when he feels she needs to say something more but doesn’t, moments when he feels sorry for her because he too knows what loneliness feel like.
They went back to eating, chatting about the upkeep of this room and the entire house. On her stories, he could tell how close she is to everyone is the house, seeing as she spends more time with their staff and helpers than her own parents. There’s always a glint of sadness in her eyes whenever her parents are mentioned so she tend to avoid discussing it.
After a few minutes, she lifted her head. “I’m sorry, by the way. For being rude during that first day.”
He was surprised but managed to recover quickly, “And since then?”
She rolled her eyes, but smiled anyway. “Yes. For that too.”
He smiled back, “Sorry too. For being a jerk during you know when and since then.”
They shared another soft smile before spending the next hour reading, with Dany occasionally humming along the music. He found it comforting, if he was being honest. He spent the way home humming the same tune. It followed him to his dreams.
JON: My siblings are going crazy.
DAENERYS: Oh? Did I bring too much chocolate? Rickon still running around? :P
JON: He kept asking if you live in a castle.
DAENERYS: Tell him I need a prince to save me from the tower. ;)
JON: You’re rich, you can call a chopper.
DAENERYS: Killjoy.
DAENERYS: Your siblings are more fun than you, Jon Snow.
JON: You bribed them with food and chocolates and a Taylor Swift CD! I rest my case.
DAENERYS: I’m not sorry. :P
JON: My ears would bleed if Sansa plays another Taylor Swift song. :(
DAENERYS: You have no taste.
JON: Arya wants to see the pool, she's so annoying.
DAENERYS: Take them anytime, it'll be fun.
JON: Rickon wants to "adopt" you. He wants you to live here lol
JON: They all really liked you. :)
DAENERYS: I liked them too. :)
“Woah, your twin brother is cute.” She said as he pry his phone off her hands. He expected that, in fact, despite being brothers, he and Robb looked nothing alike; even their personalities are complete opposite of each other. Robb was adventurous and loud and had always been good looking, he on the other hand had always been awkward and shy and average-looking.
“I think you would have liked him more. He’s better at making friends than me.”
She studied him for a second. “I bet he’s just not as self-depreciating as you.”
“Ha ha. Vey funny.”
“Eh. He’s cute, but I think you’re cuter.” She winked at him. He knows she’s only teasing him because he always gets “beefy red” as she said, whenever she does. Nonetheless, he could still feel his ears burning. He had been called cute before, but it somehow felt more embarrassing when it’s coming from Dany. It didn’t help that his own sisters have been poking fun at him ever since he told them he and Dany are now friends.
“He was always better at socializing than me, being into sports and all that. I was always the nerd.”
She smiled at him, this time without the playful tone she said, “Well, I like nerds.”
“That’s cause you’re a nerd too.”
She shrugged.
“Can I ask? About what happened?”
“Um, well, we were nine when we found out. Actually, we’ve always known that his heart was weaker than mine, weaker than normal, to be honest. That’s why my parents have always been more guarded with him. Probably also why he had a bit of a rebel streak.”
He shifted in his seat, the ice cold lemonade staring to cool off his glass. “When we were nine, he had a really bad asthma attack, I barely remember everything. But the next thing I know, he was in and out of the hospital.”
His mind registered the sudden warmth in his hand. When he looked down, she was holding his hands, listening intently to him. “I’m sorry.”
“He was sick, for a long while. Probably four, five years, the doctors basically told mum and dad that transplant’s the only way to go but Robb’s body was too weak to survive the operation. He, didn’t want to, Robb. He knows he won’t make it, and that we’ll be spending too much for nothing. Mum wouldn’t hear her though, they try to find other ways, you know. Soon enough the savings were basically emptied out and nothing happened. He’s still… he died after a while, his heart too weak, along with other complications.”
“Must be tough for you.”
He nodded. “Aye, he was my best friend.”
“About two years after Robb died, my parents got into an accident. And my siblings and I were left to fend for ourselves.”
“How come they let you? I mean, without a guardian?”
“Oh, we had a guardian; we have this terrible aunt from the Vale. State thought she was taking care of us, but she only took what’s left of mum’s jewelry and took off. We never reported her ‘because we didn’t want the cops to find out. We didn’t want to be separated, my brothers and I. I figured I’ll be 18 soon enough and then we’d never have to be scared of social workers splitting us up.”
“You’re a great brother. Sorry you had to go through that.”
He smiled weakly at her, he’d never told that story to anyone before. That’s basically because everyone in town already knows their family’s tragic story, except the fact that they currently don’t have a legal guardian. People still think their aunt is sending them money. Only his friends know the real story there, and now, Dany too.
“My eldest brother, Rhaegar? You remember him?”
He nodded. She has told about him once or twice, mostly when she tells stories about the places they have lived in. She always has a lot of stories to tell, not that they actually have anything better to do now that she doesn’t really need any tutoring.
“He was always the favorite. He could never do wrong in my parents’ eyes. I loved my brother, always wanted to be like him when I was a kid.” She smiled sadly, “I idolized him so much, me and Vis. He was our hero.”
Jon listened to her attentively, offering a smile to urge her to go on. She had listened to him, now it’s his turn.
“The spelling bee contest? I really wanted to win that day because my parents promised they’ll take us all on a skating trip after. Rhae died that day. Car crash, he was twenty.”
He took her hand as she had took his before, “I’m sorry.”
She shook her head, “Nothing was ever the same after that. All pressure went to Vis after that; he worked so hard to be as good as Rhae. He studied night and day; he did sports, music, arts, everything Rhae did and so much more. He struggled so much to fill the void Rhae left behind. Mom and dad expected so much from him as the remaining older brother.”
His stomach turn into knots, there certainly is no way this story has a happy ending. Everyone knows Dany is the sole heir of the Targaryens now, meaning something must have happened to her second eldest brother as well. He could see how Dany is struggling to get the words out; he could also see how she kept her tears from falling.
“It’s okay, Dany. You don’t have to tell me if you’re not ready.”
“No, it’s just that… after all this time it’s still too painful to remember.”
He nodded, tracing circles on her palm with his thumb as a comforting gesture. She sniffled, looking up at him, letting the first tear fall. “I was the one who found him, you know?”
“Yeah, people heard about it from the news. He died in his sleep?”
She chuckled sadly, “Gods, I’m still mad at dad for that. He was so ashamed he had to make up that story.”
“What do you mean?”
“Vis… he, he killed himself, Jon.”
Jon felt a punch in his gut. How could she have gone through all that as a girl and still be as normal as she is now? He felt the overwhelming urge to wrap his arms around her then, but he didn’t. He didn’t want to overstep. He held her hand tighter though, squeezing lightly.
“He couldn’t handle the pressure, the constant struggle to do better than or at least as good as Rhae. He didn’t want to disappoint dad.”
“Fuck, Dany. That’s so messed up, I’m… I’m so so sorry.”
“I did all I could do to keep the family from falling apart, but we all knew the cracks had already started the day Rhae died. No matter how hard Vis or I work, we’ll never be as good as him. We’ll never be able to fix what was broken within us. I was doing really great at school, before we moved here. I distinctly remember being top of the class for three years in a row.”
“Sorry. I can’t imagine going through all that.”
“Three times and not once did my parents show up. I distinctly remember one time I was called to the principal office because a classmate accused me of spreading this rumor about her. She tried pulling my hair, then she was going on and on about how no one will come save me then ‘cause my brothers are dead. I just… I snapped and I fought her back. That was the first time may parents showed up at my school.”
She stood up, putting the books back in the shelf.
“I figured if my greatest achievements won’t gain their attention, the embarrassment will. So I kept doing it. Anything just so they would look at me.”
She turned her back at him, “I know it’s pathetic. And that you think that it’s shallow and very privileged of me, I understand. I know.”
“Dany, that’s not–“
“It’s okay, Jon. I know I’m not the only one going through something.”
“What you went through was horrible; no one should have to go through that alone.”
He stood up, putting his hands on her shoulders. “You don’t have to keep doing it, Dany. You’re amazing and you’re great and if they cannot see that, it’s their lost, anyway.”
“Is it?”
He tilted his head so he could meet her eyes, “Yes. Don’t do it for them, do it for you. It’s a shame to hide away one Daenerys Targaryen from the world when you could do so much for it. You’re bright, Dany, so so bright I wish you could see that. Don’t let anyone dim your light.”
She smiled at him, “You’ve been reading too much Shakespeare.”
He rolled his eyes at her. He hadn’t, it was Sansa. She kept asking Jon to borrow romance books from Dany’s library and reading the cheesiest lines at the breakfast table.
“I told you that’s Sansa. Oh, speaking of–” He plucked the remaining book from his bag and returned it to the shelf. His phone buzzed.
“I think your siblings are looking for you.”
Sure enough, when he opened the text, it was Arya asking if he’s on his way.
“It’s okay, Jon. You can go.”
He didn’t want to leave her yet, not after everything she had shared with him. He feels like he should be doing something, he just doesn’t know what. He just knows he wants to be there for her.
“It’s okay. We’ll talk later.”
“Okay. I– um, I am picking up Arya from the dentist, we have to stop by the grocery or Sansa’s gonna kill us both.”
She helped as he pack up his things, which isn’t much really as they mostly use her books since she has more reference books at the library and most have highlights and bookmarks already. She walked him out of the house for the first time. She handed him the takeout bag as well.
“You’re spoiling them rotten, Daenerys Targaryen.”
“They loved Marya’s cooking, and she loves the little thank you letters and drawings Rickon sends.”
Before going, he turned back to her, “Hey, you’re amazing and you deserve to know that, okay? Don’t ever think otherwise.”
She nodded, looking a bit taken aback. He could not blame her, Jon isn’t really good with words, and he himself is surprised he managed to hold an emotional conversation with her. It wasn’t an easy conversation but he felt lighter talking about Robb and his parents, he hopes Dany felt the same.
He had barely taken three steps when Dany called out to him. He hadn’t had a chance to think as she approached him and planted a soft kiss at his cheek, “Thank you, Jon.”
DANY: Jon?
JON: Hey, what’s up?
DANY: So, I showed dad my report card yesterday.
JON: Yeah? What did he say? And please tell Mr. Targaryen he doesn’t have to thank me yet. ;)
DANY: lol
JON: Dany?
DANY: Yeah?
JON: Everything alright? You’re being weird.
DANY: Uh huh. Everything’s fine, the same.
DANY: They left this morning. Again.
DANY: Can I come over your house?
JON: Okay, what did he say?
DANY: Just the usual. You know him.
JON: Tell me.
JON: Is your dad being a jerk again?
JON: I’ll come pick you up. Don’t go anywhere.
JON: Dany?
JON: Dany, why aren’t you answering my call?
“Mr. Snow, a moment?”
He was sitting by her bedside , holding her hand in his. Jon had to restrain himself just so he would not punch her father in front of her. He had been a few minutes late, when he arrived at Dany’s house, Marya and Davos were frantically looking for her. She slipped out the back door and probably got lost in the woods before running off in the middle on the road, probably spooked by a deer.
“You were supposed to protect her. You’re her father.” He spit out as soon as they were out of her room.
Rhaella cut in, “Jon, we’re thankful for what you’ve done. If you haven’t found her–“
“Look, Mr. Targaryen, you… you have an amazing daughter. You have no idea how smart she is, how kind, how funny. She… she wants nothing more than to make you both proud. She worked so hard for you to see that, and she’s just, she’s acting this way because you…” He swallowed, stood his ground even if the presence of Aerys Targaryen is intimidating, “You just don’t see that. And she doesn’t deserve to be treated this way. If you could only sit with her, and actually talk to her, you’ll know you’re missing the best part of your life. And–“
He stopped when he heard someone sniffling, upon turning his head, he saw Dany’s mother crying. What surprised him more was when he saw that even Aerys is trying to hold back tears.
“Mr. Snow, I think you misinterpreted my intention.” The man cleared his throat. “I want to thank you, for finding and staying with my daughter. Selmy have told me you haven’t left her side.”
“I don’t need your thank yous, all due respect, Sir. What I want is for you to see.” He looked back at Rahella, “For both of you to see.”
Aerys could do nothing but nod at him. What could a father say to a boy who looks fiercer in protecting his own daughter than him?
“We’ve been absent for too long, Aerys.” Rhaella said.
“And you’re right, Mr. Snow.” He turned his attention back to Jon. “We haven’t been the parents she needed when she’s growing up, I see that now. I’m just sorry it has to come to this for me to realize that.”
“She just needed you both. You’re all she has left, you lost your boys and I am truly sorry for that but you acted like you don’t have a daughter too.” He muttered, he’s still angry at them. If they haven’t been so inattentive to their daughter, she would’ve never run away and she never would have been in an accident.
“We know, and we can only feel sorry for it and try to do better from now on.”
“You better treat her like the princess that she is, then.” He said without thinking. Once he realized what he had said, he felt embarrassed; not for defending her but for the way he had raised his voice and phrased that sentence. It’s silly, but that’s how he thinks she should be treated. She’s been though a lot already.
Rhaella took her by surprise by hugging her, “Thank you, Jon. For staying with her. For being here when we weren’t.”
“She’s gonna be okay, right?” He asked once she pulled away. “She’s stubborn as hell, your daughter.”
Rhaella nodded, “She will be.”
“I heard you gave my dad hell when he showed up.”
He chuckled, “Sorry, I know he’s your dad but he deserved it.” He took her hand in his, “How are you feeling?”
“Like I’ve been hit by a car.” She smiled.
“Dany…”
“Fine, I’m feeling better now.”
He nodded, as he made to pull his hand away though, Dany kept it in place. There’s that pull again, it had been there for quite some time now and he’s just trying so hard to resist it. When she looks at him like this though, he can feel his restraint faltering.
“Thank you, Jon.” She smiled again, a lone tear escaping her eye.
He moved closer, moving at the side of her bed, “Hey. Don’t cry. Come on, I think your dad’s gonna have my ass kicked if he thought I made you cry now.”
“I think he’s trying to win best dad award now. He asked if I wanted a pony when I get out. I’m not seven anymore.”
She chuckled, looking down at their joined hands. “Jon, I… I think I love you.”
“Is that alright?”
Jon couldn’t figure out the exact moment he fell in love with her, but he knows he had. And his heart flipping in joy at her confession further solidifies that.
“Are you so high on meds right now, Dany?”
She groaned, “Jon…”
He chuckled as she tried hitting his arm. She’s still a bit weak so he had caught her hand quickly, “Alright? Dany, it’s more than alright. It’s perfect.”
She leaned into him and he met her halfway, pressing his lips into her. He felt her smiling though the kiss and it made him smile back. His friends told him he’s different, his siblings told him he seemed happier, they seem to know that all of that is thanks to one person. Jon was the last person who realized that.
Pulling back a bit, he pressed his forehead against hers. She still looks so beautiful like this, flushed cheeks and bright eyes. “I think, no, not I think, I know. I know I love you too.”
Her smile lit up the entire room, he swears. They don’t know what happens next, or how they’re going to make it work once Dany goes overseas for college but he wasn’t scared. Whatever comes next, they’ll go and learn through it.
Together.
“What now?” She asked as she leaned on his shoulder.
Wrapping an arm around her, he kissed the top of her head, “Now we’re gonna wait until you’re discharged.”
She giggled, “And then?”
“Then, I’m going to take you out on a date.”
She put a finger on her lips, pretending to be thinking it through. Her smile as she peered up at him betrays her though. “And then?”
“Then, I’ll spend forever learning about you, Daenerys Targaryen.”
Her eyes soften at that. With a peck on his lips, she whispered, “I’d really like that, Jon Snow.”
He found he liked his second name now as well, especially when it’s Dany saying it.