Turning the page I pick up my sword. My lack of training and small stature does not prevent me from being the chosen warrior. I can and will defeat my enemies and slay the dragon threatening the kingdom. I have a humble background, but with a salty mentor, in denial of his own greatness, I will attain the best training. He will growl and grumble but love me like the daughter he never had. I will blossom into the greatest knight in all of history—

“Excuse me…”

My glasses slip down the bridge of my nose as I startle awake from my new world. “Wha-what?”

“You ordered the small coffee, black?” An attractive waiter questions.

My heart beat pounds and I instantly close the book and flip it over, concerned about being judged for its content.

“Oh! Yes! Sorry…”

“I’ve seen you here before…must be a good book. I’ve called your number for the past ten minutes.”

A blush flushes my cheeks. “Sorry…” I reach to take my coffee and avoid his eyes until his dirty sneakers disappear from view.

He seems nice. I wish I was brave enough to not be so freaking awkward. I could have told him about the book or at least strike up a conversation about the conspiracy theories behind sugary coffee creamers. No, that’s dumb. Just because he works in a coffee shop doesn’t mean he cares about coffee.

What page was I on again?

“Knighthood is no career choice for a woman!” The prince sneers.

“I need no blessing from you, Sir! I answer only to the king,” I say boldly, setting aside my sword just long enough to take a sip from my coffee cup.