Chapter One
I was floating.
At least, I felt like I was. You know that moment where you are at complete peace under the water? Everything was right… until my maids woke me up.
"Miss, it's time to get up," Lucy said, trying not to disturb me.
"Uggh, five more minutes?" I replied lazily. After everything that was going on, I could really use a bit of sleep.
"I'm afraid we have orders from the queen. She wishes to speak to you about something important," Anne said hastily. They had picked out a lovely pink dress with long sleeves that billowed out at the ends. When they were done, I looked fabulous, even though I felt horrible. I hadn't seen Silva or the Queen since my episode on the Report, and I wasn't looking forward to it. Natalie had been eliminated, so that left Celeste, Kriss, Elise, and me. I was very determined. I wanted to spend the rest of my days with Maxon, I was sure of it. I wanted to feel like I did on Halloween all the time. I wanted to be Maxon's alone.
"On the bright side, you look lovely America", Mary tried to convince me.
"Wish me luck," I said. And with that I was on my way.
I looked around the dining hall. Celeste was wearing a dress that was a little iffy for my taste. Elise was making surface conversation with Kriss, and Maxon was speaking to Elise, though it didn't look extremely important. He saw me when I walked in, and he smiled and tugged his ear. I tugged mine back.
I sat down next to Elise and then Queen Amberly talked to me, "How was your night, Lady America?" I wanted to say that it was painful, but instead I said, "Ohh, fine. Just a little restless, that's all." The morning consisted of some light conversation, but nothing too interesting.
Then Queen Amberly made her announcement, "Ladies, I am taking a little vacation to visit my cousin. I will be back in a week's time, but until then, Silva will be in charge. Don't worry, everything will be fine." All I could think about was being alone in the castle with King Clarkson.