ᴅᴀʀᴋ ʀᴇᴅ ↪𝑉. 𝑇𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑎𝑟𝑦𝑒𝑛 𝑖𝑖𝑖

10. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞

Reyna chuckled and continued, "But I do remember when Sansa was born, for me she was the most beautiful baby I had ever seen at that time. She had gorgeous auburn hair and bright blue eyes, and I couldn't help but feel a little jealous of her beauty. As she got older, she became more reserved and liked to spend her time reading and embroidering and doing other "lady" things, while I enjoyed playing with Jon and Robb and swinging swords with the boys. Our personalities clashed a lot, and we often ended up fighting like cats and dogs."

Despite their differences, Reyna explained how she loved Sansa with all her heart. "However, deep down, I knew that I would do anything for her. No matter how much we fought, I would always love her, and I knew she felt the same way about me."

Reyna continued, "And as Arya was born, I saw a spark in her that I recognized all too well. She was fierce, independent, and determined, just like me. And as she grew up, her personality became more and more similar to mine, which I loved. But I think Sansa kind of resented me for that. She never showed it, but I could tell. Even so, I always made sure they both knew how much I loved them, no matter what."

"Then there was Theon Greyjoy, Robb's best friend and my father's ward. But as time passed, I realized that he was a pig who thought he could have anything he wanted. And yet, I couldn't help but care about him. I'm sure he was delusional, he kept telling me that one day my father would allow him to marry me and maybe that was what made me care even more. It's hard to explain, but he was always so cocky and arrogant, but deep down, I think he was just a boy trying to find his way."

Dany leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. "So you were not interested in Theon?"

"Gods no. Never in a million years." Reyna's response was as prompt as her movements. She threw her hand in the air, as if swatting away the very thought. Dany couldn't help but laugh at her boldness.

"So, what do you want your future husband to be like?"

Reyna paused. She took a deep breath, as if contemplating her answer. "I don't really have an image of my future husband, Dany. I don't really care for his appearance." She paused again and turned to look at Dany, her gaze contemplative.

"But I do wish for him to be gentle ... and kind ... and lastly he must have a pretty smile."

Dany hummed thoughtfully. "Gentle, kind, and a pretty smile. That seems very simple, Reyna."

Reyna shrugged, a small smile touching her face. "Well, I'm a very simple girl, Dany." It was as though she was revealing something deeply personal about herself.

Dany's gaze flittered over to Reyna, her brow furrowed with concern. "I think my brother has stopped his attempts at pursuing you," she remarked softly, carefully watching Reyna's reaction.

Reyna's jaw tightened, and her eyes flashed with anger, "Good," she replied, her voice low and serious. "If he were to come near me again, I might do something I'd regret." Her voice was firm and unapologetic, as though she would not hesitate to defend herself if it came down to it.

Dany sighed heavily. "I'm sorry, Reyna. Viserys' actions towards you were wrong and unjustifiable. I know it is not much, but please accept my apology on his behalf."

She shook her head, her eyes filled with regret. "He was never the most rational thinker, and I fear his actions towards you were a reflection of his own insecurities and bitterness. He never meant to hurt you, but I know that doesn't change anything."

But before Dany could say anything else, Reyna beat her to it. "Why do you always defend him, even when he has hurt you?" she asked, her voice hard and resolute.

Dany felt a lump form in her throat. She looked away, unable to meet Reyna's gaze. She knew that she couldn't deny what Reyna was saying. Viserys had hurt her many times before, but she couldn't bring herself to speak poorly of him.