I was up all night thinking about Alec and how to stop the competition. I could run away…but my parents would worry. I could pretend I was sick…no we'll just postpone the games then. I could just tell them about Alec…No, then she'll be mad and the clans will be mad, and ugh.

Just listen to Alec, don't worry about the games. But how can I? He doesn't have to be married off. He wouldn't have to live with and entire kingdom's guilt. What does he think the games just magically won't happen? That they'll go away just from not thinking about them? He's so lucky, free to do what he wants, not having to be judged. He isn't always getting told what to do, what not to do, when to do it. Err.

I flopped back on my bed, I was over reacting, I don't need to be mad at Alec. I'm just worried about the games; they're in a few weeks. I won't go through with this, I will be with Alec.

Alec's POV

I paced in my room, trying to come up with a plan. What if the Princes got a fake letter saying they would have to wait? No, they'll know something is up without the Queen's signature on the bottom. What if we ran away together? No I could never ask Merida to leave her family or her kingdom. What if we told our parents? No, they'll be mad.

I went downstairs, "Mom?"

"Yes, Alec?"

"You said the clans would be coming to compete for Mer- the Princess's hand."

"Yes."

"What do you mean by that?"

"It's an ancient tradition. The clans each bring a worthy suitor to compete in a challenge decided by the princess herself. The winner get to marry her. It's so romantic."

"I see." Who says only the Princes could compete? A plan formed in my head, I would tell Merida about it tomorrow. No, I'd surprise her and just tell her not to worry. Yes, that's it. But how will I know what she'll choose? I'll find a way; I need to get some sleep.

The Next Day

Merida and I were going for a walk in the woods when she brought up the games, "We really need to come up with a plan."

"How? We don't even know how the games work," This will definitely get me the answer.

"My mom says I get to choose the game, the Princes will compete, and the winner will marry me."

"What game have you decided?"

"I don't know. There are so many to choose from."

"You love archery, why not pick that?"

She smiled, "Great idea! Thanks Alec. But we still need a plan."

"Don't worry about it, I'll take care of it."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive."

"OK then."

"Now, stop worrying and just have fun today."

"I always have fun when I'm with you."

Merida's POV

I don't know what Alec was planning, but I almost couldn't wait for the games to find out. We had a relaxing day, just strolling through the woods and talking.