And, on with the story. Comments and questions at the end. -SJ :)
...X.X.X.X...
The lights are bright on stage, and I work to maintain my posture on the small couch next to Gavril's familiar perch. The heat, from both the lights and attention, is becoming oppressive. This Report has been especially long: Sutton, Dad, and I explaining the election processes; Mom and her education updates; each of the boys had said their hellos; even Brie made a brief appearance by remote video technology. All the pageantry is in preparation for the International Summit that had originated from Mom and Dad's tireless work. But a good portion of the time is spent focusing on the Selection. Especially the recent eliminations.
My arm has been in the same place across the back of the couch for about the last thirty minutes, and is starting to tire. Thankfully, Gavril can sense I am beginning to wilt, and conducts the interviews quickly. Aubrey is sitting beside me, last by luck of the draw. She's a nice girl, and I like reminiscing about Columbia; however, she will be going home. She's nothing compared to Viv or even Claire. My mind wanders, and I am soon confronting the question that both Viviana and Claire asked me over the last month: Why keep people here who I am not interested in marrying? She must know. I smile politely, and nod along as Gavril speaks with her. I'm pulled back into the present conversation when he asks, "So, you went to school with Prince Calix?"
"Yes," she answers, tucking a loose strand of her honey-colored hair behind her ear. I am puzzled when a slight tinge pink appears on her cheeks.
I add, "We were in a class together freshman year, and had a project to do together." I'm still curious why she is embarrassed by that information.
"And our Crown Prince was a good student, Aubrey? Was there anything more to your relationship?" Gavril teases, as she looks at him through her eyelashes. He winks and she colors more.
"Of course not," I respond easily. "We were partners for a project, and lost touch after that. But, it was a pleasant surprise when she arrived for the Selection." I smile at her, and realize her clear green eyes are clouding.
Gavril stops the questioning at that point, and he releases her from the spot beside me. I am heartened by this, as that is the cue that we are almost done, though I am confused by her off-stage posture. She is glaring at me, arms crossed. He turns his attention to me again, "And, Prince Calix, through the grapevine I hear there may be a big decision next week. Would you like to tell the people of Illea about what that might be?"
Right, Gavril. The grapevine. Or I told you I was proposing next week. "Well, Gavril," I turn on my best grin, "There just might be a big announcement during the summit." I wink at him, and he laughs and turns back to the screen.
"Well, you've heard it here first. A big announcement from Prince Calix. Tune in next week, where the mystery will be solved." He exchanges the usual pleasantries, and finally I hear the magic words, "We're off-air."
Thank the gods. I stand, and pull off my jacket, hurriedly rolling up my sleeves and loosening my tie. In my periphery, I see Dad, Baer, and Griffin doing the same. Mom is fanning herself with her project folder. Suddenly, Aubrey is in front of me again, her hands on her hips. "Hi," I say, bemused. "Do you need something, Aubrey?"
"How dare you?" she growls.
I'm sure my confusion is evident, as I respond, "How dare I what? I thought I helped you out on-air."
"You don't remember me, do you?" her usual mild manner is missing, and her eyes are narrow. She hisses, "All of this time, I thought you were too much of a gentleman to mention it. Well, maybe I should jog your memory of the night we spent together?"
My stomach drops. I really have no memory of it. She raises her hand and I feel her palm connect with my cheek. I am aware that everyone in the studio has dropped what they are doing and is staring at me. She raises her voice, "You are the most despicable man I have ever had the displeasure of spending time with, Prince Calix. I wish I never met you." And her words sting more than the hand against my flesh. I try not to stare as she turns on her heel and stalks from the studio, my feet refusing to move despite my impulse to follow her. Finally, my body responds, and I give chase, catching the surprised faces of my family and Sutton's self-satisfied smirk.
….X.X.X.X….
"When are you going to ask her?" Charlie grins, as she tries to catch my expression. Our feet are taking up a rhythm against the mulched trail. Neither one of us is breathing heavy yet, so she has plenty of energy to pick at me.
"Ask who what?" I play dumb, even as she uses both hands to push me off the path. I stumble, but regain my footing. "Hey, watch it. Or next time, I'll bring my guards."
"Frightening." She runs a forearm across her face and then pulls her long blonde ponytail tight, not missing a step. "Oh, come on. Claire left. Aubrey smacked you and then left. It's Ana, Viv, and me. And, we know I'm not in the real running. Viviana's been on cloud nine since before The Report, but won't tell me why. Luckily," she continues, wiggling her eyebrows, "I'm intuitive. So, when are you going to propose to our dear Viviana?"
Keeping my eyes straight ahead, and my voice matter-of-fact, I confess, "I showed her the princess suite." I catch her face in my peripheral vision and allow a grin. "I guess she liked it."
"I'm going to need to stage some big, dramatic exit," she muses. Laughing she suggests, "How about I put these long legs to use and kick you in the face? I could do it at dinner next week and then storm out the front door. Will facial contusions get you out of meetings?"
"You know, Charlie, I already have an annoying little sister."
"I'm just standing in for her until she returns."
I just shake my head a little, "I feel like a display would just be a variation of Aubrey, plus you'd be on international news. You'd never date again. How about we hug and wish each other well? And, then you plan to come back for the wedding?"
"I guess that's an option," she breezes, and picks up the pace markedly, causing me to breathe heavier. She pulls ahead easily, calling over her shoulder, "Race you back!"
….X.X.X.X….
"Referring to the last sheet, the attendees from each nation have been confirmed. Their entourages have been reviewed and approved. And we have confirmation of a staggered arrival, starting with Italy, and moving down the list in front of you. Each team is bringing a Gavril or two of their own, and those names are underlined. Security personnel are in italics." Uncle August, Uncle Carter, and Commander Leger are all learning forward, taking turns leading us through the packet information. I am relieved the meeting is almost finished, as we already completed the strategy meeting and international agreements, but it is necessary. There is something comforting in the fact that Ana, Charlie, and Viviana are going through a similar discussion right now. I refocus. I've done a good job of pushing Viv aside in my mind today. A quick glance around the table reveals Baer and Griffin also paying close attention. Sutton, Reed, and other members of parliament have reported and long since left to prepare for the welcome reception. I envy them. They only had to stay until page twenty, and we are currently looking at page fifty-three. Commander Leger finishes his statement, and all three turn simultaneously to Mom and Dad.
Dad nods, accepting the report. "Take note," Dad trains his eyes on Baer and Griffin. I am heartened that he doesn't even look my way. "The overseas reporters are not interested in preserving the Schreave reputation nor a positive image of Illea." They nod, very seriously, in response. I've never seen them look nervous, but then again, this event is international. Ethan and I exchange a glance, as well. I already know that our guards will pay special attention to make sure the boys are not taken advantage of, but what's a big brother for if he can't do the same?
"So, Princess Abrielle will arrive at the palace separately or with the Italian entourage?" Mom questions the security team, expertly changing the subject.
"Separately, Your Majesty. The princess and her guard will exit the plane first and her car will precede the others. Then each group will arrive fifteen minutes a part for the rest of the evening," Uncle August confirms. "They are in Illean airspace with their arrival time is in approximately eighty minutes."
"As is normal, the palace guard units have been increased," Uncle Carter continues. His formality in our meeting mirrors his expectations for the next week. "The second floor will have more traffic, due to the additional guests. Each Selected will have a palace guard stationed at her door twenty-four hours a day.
"And access to the family floors?" Mom presses; as much as possible, she tries to make the third floor a haven for us all.
The corners of his mouth twitch up slightly. "I was just about to mention that. As normal, no one will be allowed unless accompanied by a royal family member. Georgia and Kate will be readily available at all times, as well. We don't anticipate any trouble, but we are prepared for it." Georgia smiles and nods her assent.
"Just warn Avery," Mom's smile is mischievous, "That Nicoletta does not consider him a deterrent to the third floor. She believes she's an honorary Schreave, and we might as well make it easier on him."
"So noted, Your Majesty." And, we all allow ourselves a second to grin. Auntie Nic always gets what she wants. "Any other additions to the list?" Everyone tries to slyly look in my direction, and I pretend I don't see their eyes on me. I like the idea of our family suites being a sanctuary. Uncle Carter ends the silence that follows with a quick cough, "Any other questions?"
"Good work, as always," Dad assures them. "Next item."
Mom and Baer meticulously begin to explain the details of the televised portions of the Summit, as well as remind us of protocol for the reception during the evening. The only relief to the tedium is that Vara is not in the meeting, as security is not her concern. But their explanation excuses Gavril and Stephen's absence. They are preparing for the remote at the air base, as well as the formal filming as the guests are greeted at the palace.
We complete the agenda, and the boys hop up to leave. Mom has them retie their ties, and re-don their jackets. Her blue eyes twinkle, as she looks at each of us. We all have the sleeves of our shirts rolled up, ties loose, and jackets flung over our seats. She stands and winks, looking regal in her formal black suit. "And you all might want to run a comb through your hair, instead of your hands. Our guests will be here soon." We all stand, as she and Aunt Georgia and Aunt Marlee exit, undoubtedly to check on one more thing before the guests arrive.
Chirps emit from the earpiece in Commander Leger's ear. He turns from us for a minute, his index finger pressing against the small piece of black plastic. He turns towards us again, "Your Majesties, the Italian delegation has touched down."
A soft sheen of sweat appears on my forehead, as I force composure across my features. And so it begins.
…X.X.X.X…
So, if you had to pick a song for this chapter, what would you name it? Or is there a particular chapter you'd like to name? Throw the name in the review. Maybe I'll go back and name the chapters? OR, leave me a phrase to include in the next chapter. I'll pick a couple and incorporate them. :) Anyway, thanks in advance for your thoughts and impressions. I think I'm back in a writing rhythm where all things can be sustained. (And, I've already started on the next chapter…) Don't quote me on it, though. Thanks for reading and to those of you that review, favorite, and follow! XOXO SJ :)
prnamber3909: Here it comes! Now, the question is, what will it be like? :)
username1096: It's hard to know how to feel about Fae, isn't it? First person makes it even harder. I hope you're enjoying it! :)
dolly123: You're welcome for updating—and I am glad you are liking the story. Viviana and Cal would make a good pair, right? :)
AcademicGirl: It's good to be back. I just need to read more stories. Saw you posted—can't wait to read it! :)
MarMuffin: Claire is infinitely better than Ana, isn't she? Cal is just so dense sometimes…. Thanks for chiming in! :)
Oh, I haven't done the bracket in a while, but if you want, let me know and we'll start back up! I kept good notes!