Ha… Ha… Hey guys…
So… Here I am again. Super late as always to update…
At this point, I just have to say that I really can't update as much as I'd like. I've tried for months to be consistent, but for me, I need to be satisfied with my work before sending it out to you guys. I appreciate the love you've given to me and this story so much, and I feel like I owe it to you guys to be… idk… perfect? Which I'm not, I'm totally not perfect. But sometimes it can get really stressful, and I really want to make you guys happy. And I do need time to make sure my writing is good enough to make you all happy.
I actually almost gave up on this story, because I felt like I had nowhere to go with it. I had ideas for way far in the future, but none for right now. Thanks to AcademicGirl and my other friends on this website, I've realized that even if I get unsure sometimes, writing makes me happy, and it still BLOWS MY MIND that it makes you guys happy too. So yeah, I'm going to continue this story, no matter how long it takes (hopefully I'll get A LITTLE better at updating, but don't expect too much).
Thank you all so much for the love and support you give me and this story, words can't describe how grateful I am. Thanks for being fangirls, and thanks for being my friends.
Until next time, my dears,
xoxo, Lily
AMERICA'S POV:
"I've missed you so much! It's a miracle that I've managed to survive and look presentable on my own this week!" I exclaimed as Mary, Anne, and Lucy bustled around my small room.
It was surprising how accustomed I had become to my palace life, and how weird it had been without my maids by my side. They set to work fixing up my hair and makeup, and pulling out dresses and shoes from their trunks. They had come all the way from Angeles to prepare me for the province ball; Celeste and Kriss had had their own, and tonight, every important person from Carolina would be attending in the hopes of seeing their own Daughter of Illéa… me.
It was an extremely nerve wracking thought, so I tried my best to avoid thinking about tonight at all. It was strange, going from someone completely invisible to someone people battled at the chance to meet. Not so long ago, I would've been playing in the background of one of these events. Would even Maxon's eyes have passed over me without a second thought?
Again, I tried to not think too much about it. It was my last night in Carolina, and who knew how long it would be until I got to come home again.
I stood up from the stool I had been seated, and I was instructed by Anne to lift my arms. I tossed off the robe, and did as I was told. I felt a smooth material slide over my head. My maids flitted around me, adjusting straps and straightening hems.
I gasped when I saw my reflection. My dress was a beautiful golden creation. The halter top created a deep V that still managed to be modest. The dress itself was the color of golden honey, and every time I moved, I shimmered. It hugged my body from the top down to my waist, where it flared out into a gown. My hair was curled loosely and left down, held back from my face by gold pins.
I looked in the mirror that had hung on my wall for most of my life. For seventeen years I had looked in that mirror, and every day I had seen a plain old Five, a nobody. Now, I saw a princess.
I wasn't sure if the feeling was unnerving or exhilarating.
Was it the clothes that really made my reflection change, or was it the way I felt inside? Did I see everything differently now, because I had grown and changed, or was it just the jewels and silk clouding my vision?
Was I truly ready to become a princess, or did I just look like one?
MAY'S POV:
As I watched my sister walk down the stairs, I wasn't really watching her. I was watching the way her eyes lit up when they met Prince Maxon's.
You can call me boy-crazy, but I've read enough romantic novels to know all the signs of love. And I'm pretty sure Ames is in it.
Like, seriously, I think she forgets that I'm almost fourteen. You'd have to be blind to miss the "secret" glances they throw at each other at dinner. Gerad thinks it's gross, but I think it's sweet.
I know the Selection isn't over yet, but I can't help but feel like Ames is going to win. She has to.
She doesn't think she can be the princess, and eventually the queen, and a couple months ago, neither would I. But something's changed in the time that she's been at the palace. She doesn't rely on anyone anymore, not even Maxon. She's always been stubborn, but now she is strong. And I think she's going to be an awesome queen.
Maxon whispered something to Ames, and she blushed.
They're totally perfect together. They just have to realize it.
AMERICA'S POV:
"Have I told you how stunning you look tonight?" Maxon murmured in my ear, sending shivers down my back.
"Shut up," I replied, not able to help the blush that spreads across my cheeks. He held out his arm, and the whole family piled into the limousine that would take us to the ball. Mom looked beautiful in her saffron colored dress, and Dad and Gerad matched in their tuxes. May was glowing in her pearly pink gown. She had even coerced my maids into putting the tiniest bit of makeup on her, and she looked so much more mature than she did when I saw her only a couple months ago. I kept thinking of her as my baby sister, but she was actually almost fourteen. She gave me a wink from across the limo, and I smiled.
The mayor of Carolina's house was huge. Actually, the word "mansion" would be more accurate. It was one of the biggest buildings in Carolina, and probably the nicest, too. The exterior was all huge pillars and white paint, and inside, it was filled with sparkly chandeliers and priceless art.
As soon as we entered the party, Maxon and I were swept up into the crowd of important people and names I would forget as soon as I learnt them. I didn't know what it was, but something about Maxon seemed… off. He looked nervous, but only in the way that someone who knew him well could tell. His eyebrows were pulled just a little too close together, and his foot kept tapping impatiently.
"Are you okay?" I whispered as we took a break from mingling to dance. Maxon's idea, not mine.
"I'm fine, why do you ask?"
"I don't know, you seem nervous. Is there something I should know?" A thousand horrible scenarios ran through my mind, ranging from rebel attacks to developments in New Asia.
He rubbed the back of his neck with a hand. Nervously. "It's nothing, I promise."
I eyed him carefully. "Max-"
"Prince Maxon, may I steal my lovely daughter for a moment?" my dad cut in. I gave Maxon a look that said this wasn't over.
"Of course, Mr. Singer." Maxon politely bowed out, leaving me with my father.
"I'm terribly sorry I've given you such bad dancing genes," my father commented as I stepped on his foot.
"It has been quite the disadvantage in the Selection," I joked. He smiled at me.
"As much as I've missed you, I'm glad you did this," he commented. "That boy's been good for you."
I glanced over at Maxon, dancing with a giddy May. He caught my eye from across the room, and gave me a smile that was so genuine, so Maxon, that it made my heart constrict.
"Yeah. He has."
MAXON'S POV:
Okay, I could pretend like I had everything under control, but I didn't.
How could I tell America? There was no way to put into words what I needed to say to her.
I didn't want to disturb her and her father, but I needed to tell her before the night was over. We couldn't go back to the palace without her knowing.
Finally, the two of them broke apart, and America was all alone. With a growing feeling of dread and nerves, I approached her.
I put the thought out of my head. I was going to enjoy the rest of the night with her, and wait until the very last second to break the news.
AMERICA'S POV:
Maxon spun me around unexpectedly, winding me into his arms, making me laugh. I could hear the clicking of cameras all around us.
"Come on, I want to show you something," he whispered in my ear, tugging me gently. He led me down a dim hallway, and the sounds of the party faded away. We reached a dark wooden door, which opened to reveal a set of narrow, steep stairs that led up. I gave Maxon a dubious look.
"What is this?" I asked doubtfully.
"America, I've been at more formal events than I can count. What did you expect me to do as a kid?" He rolled his eyes. "I discovered this years ago. Just trust me, okay?"
I grasped his hand and followed as we made our way up the narrow staircase. Suddenly, I felt a burst of air.
We were on the roof.
Maxon was grinning down at me mischievously as took it all in; we seemed to be in some kind of rooftop garden. Flowers and vines wound around the rooftop, and there was a short wall that came up on the edges that was about the same height as my waist.
"This is…" I couldn't finish. It was beyond words. We walked over to the edge of the roof, and I leaned my elbows on the wall, gazing out over Carolina. It was easily the most beautiful sight I'd ever seen. The whole province was bathed in golden light from the late sunset.
The spring air was warmer than usual in Carolina, and the crickets chirped peacefully. I leaned my head into Maxon's shoulder, perfectly content. We watched as the sky turned into a painting of pinks and oranges.
"As great as this week has been, this is definitely the best part," I sighed. He pulled an arm around me, and rested his head on the top of mine.
"Agreed." he said, his voice low. I tilted my head to look up at him. The dying sun lit up his hair, making it appear more golden than usual. I couldn't believe I ever thought he was plain looking. His warm eyes that could calm me whenever I needed him to, his adorable smile. He was perfect.
I was caught staring.
"What, do I have something on my face?" Maxon asked jokingly. "Or am I simply too good-looking for you to handle?"
I laughed, looking out over the rooftop. "Don't let it get to your head, Your Highness."
In the peace of the moment, I was unexpectedly filled with an intense fear of losing the happiness I had found with Maxon. Losing the moments like these. How did I know I was going to win the Selection? I still wasn't good enough for the king, maybe I wasn't good enough for Maxon, either. The thought of living without him was too much. Everything was so different from when I first came to the palace. I came with nothing, and now I had something to lose.
"Ames?" he asked, concerned. The nickname made the edges of my lips turn up in a smile.
"Ames? Did you pick that up from May?"
"Maybe." He gave me an embarrassed smile. "Are you all right, my darling?"
His darling. I bit my lip. "I'm sorry, I just… I know this sounds completely random, especially right now…" I said, trying to figure out how to say it. "I'm not blind enough to think that I'm the only one you have feelings for, but… I can't stand the thought of losing you."
His eyes held mine. "You don't have to."
I didn't say anything, unsure of what he meant, and afraid to ruin the moment. "America, I realize we've had our ups and downs. I know it's never going to be easy for either of us," he said softly. "But I'm in love with you."
My mouth was open but I had forgotten how to speak.
I didn't breathe as he pulled out a small black box from his pocket, and got down on one knee.
"I'm so hopelessly, desperately in love with you. You're crazy, beautiful, and the possibly the most stubborn person I've ever met. But you've had my heart since the start, and you know that. From that night we first met, it's always been you, and no one else. Even though you've caused me both emotional and physical pain, I can't stop myself from loving you." My hand covered my mouth, and my eyes filled with tears. I gave a little laugh of disbelief. "I never dreamed I'd ever find someone like you, America, and I never thought I'd be capable of loving someone as much as I love you. Will you do me the honor of becoming my dear?"
His hands, shaking a little, opened the box to reveal the most beautiful ring I'd ever seen. Small diamonds encircled one larger diamond, which was simple yet sophisticated. It was perfect.
"Yes," I breathed. I threw my arms around him and kissed him, happy tears running down my cheeks. "Yes, yes, yes!"
I felt his smile against my mouth, and he pulled back a little. "I love you."
I rested my cheek against his shoulder, and closed my eyes. "I love you, too."
We've finally made it, guys. Maxon has FINALLY proposed, after a shocking 28 chapters (what a loser - he should've proposed like 28 chapters ago).
I hope this made you happy and met all your expectations for the proposal! It took a lot for me to finally, finally write it.
ALSO, I forgot to say in the beginning, Paris was AMAZING. Seriously, just magical. The friends I made there were just amazing (not to mention the FOOD holy macaroons). As much as I miss it, I'm glad I'm back and writing :)
REVIEWS:
m7star: Thank you! Haha sorry for giving you a scare there :)
ilona18: Thank you my dear :) COHF was PERFECTION.
The Devil Wears Westwood: Yeah, I totally don't hate Aspen. He's not a bad guy, and I think he's really important to who America is.
piepie1289: Thanks girl!
C.F Ryan2: Haha, as long as it takes me, I ALWAYS come back ;)
AcademicGirl: Aw baeeee thank you :D LALOL
ZetakloveN3: I'm not really sure what you mean. What's wrong with Aspen finding someone new? If there is nothing left between Aspen and America, he should move on, not keep pining over America. Aspen always needs to be the protector, and while America can take care of herself, Lucy needs someone to be that for her. I think that Aspen and Lucy are a much better pair than Asperica. That's just my opinion. Thanks for reviewing!
d12t4eva: Awww thank you so much! That review literally made my day. You are the sweetest person ever! Oh, and now that they're engaged, Zach will be back (rhyming woah) verrrrrry soon. Haha. Love ya!
DaughterofSea: Haha aw thank you for staying with me! And yes I LOVE Fangirl, and have you started the Mortal Instruments yet? Thank you for reviewing! xoxo
Book addict 112: Thanks gurrrrrrrl ;)
cc1208: Haha sorry it took so long!
kassoug4: Well thank YOU for reading! xoxo
Kiren: Ooh sorry!
Guest: Hehe thanks :D
S: Aw, S, I'm sorry that you're having problems at home. If you ever need to talk, I'm here (and you can create an account so you can PM me). Love you.
Guest: RIGHT NOW. POOF.
Carly: HAHA I am, actually. Not very smutty, because it's kinda hard for me to write like that. It's not going to just cut off, so there's going to be SOME kind of detail, but not smutty. That's not how I rollllll.
broken-butterfliesx: Awwww thank you! That was so sweet! Thank you so much for reading :) xx
Astia2: You're so nice haha! Thanks darling :*
lilyowl888: Seriously, all of my reviewers are the best people ever. Thank you so much, my dear!
IDK: YAYAYAY THANK YOU
Alright, that is all, my darlings. Thank you so much for the reviews! See you soon :)
xoxo, Lily
