ANNOUNCEMENT: Hey so I published a new story for the Selection series that I plan on writing while updating this one as well. It was just an idea that wouldn't get out of my head. The story is called "A Light in the Darkness" check it out and SYOC is OPEN until 5/14/20. I already have four SYOC girls and I plan to accept 15 at the least and 20 girls at max.
Hey guys! Here's the next chapter! This gives us a slight break from the dates.
Another long chapter but a quick update!
I hinted at something last chapter and you'll find out what it was at the very end.
Don't forget to leave a review! Tell me what you think! I need feedback to see what you guys like and what you think I can improve!
And I know this may seem soon but I want you to start sending me suggestions on who you want to be the Elite. I at least want ONE girl from each of the people who sent in OC's for Payton's Selection. PLEASE VOTE ON WHO YOU WANT IN THE ELITE. THERE ARE SIX SPOTS LEFT.
The Elites already chosen (Payton):
1. Eirelyn Leger created by MichaelXClaire1996 (me)
2. Vera Martinez created by Anastasia the Goddess of Drama
3. Catherine Zussledorf created by Smiley111
4. Alexandra Redmond by Fairytoto1
The Elites already chosen (Sara):
1. Victor created by Anastasia the Goddess of drama
2. Greyson Marcus Goldberg created by Fairytoto1
These girls and boys were chosen because they are the only girls created by their respective authors. The six remaining slots for the Payton's Elite are open game for any of the OC girls. Just message me or leave a review on who you think should be an Elite, the same rules apply for Sara.
If there is a particular girl you like and you think she should be in the Elite just message me or leave a review. Remember, look over ALL the girls, not just the ones from the newest chapters so you can meet them all before deciding who you want in the Elite.
Chapter 25- Just A Normal Day
Asteria POV
Asteria was not a happy camper. Not at all. The reason? The Prince and her best friend. Eirelyn had told her what had happened after the Report and by the way, she had blushed, Asteria knew that something more than talking had happened between her and Payton. And she was right. After much coxing, Eirelyn had finally opened up about what happened and how they had kissed. Her best friend had also revealed her new outlook about the Selection and her life, and while Asteria was glad that Eirelyn was finally trying to move on from James' death, she thought it was too soon for her to get so close to Payton. Her little breakdown at the Report was proof of that.
Eirelyn wasn't emotionally ready to try a new relationship. That argument hadn't held well with Eirelyn herself, who thought that Asteria was just babying her. Hopefully, she could get through to Payton about her concerns. She just didn't know how to bring it up. If she was going to make a case, now would be the time since she was on a date with Payton.
"Asteria?" She glanced up, narrowing her sapphire blue eyes on Payton who looked nervous. Good, he at least knew that she was mad at him. "What is it? Weren't you listening? I told you that Eirelyn wants to try dating me."
"I know," Asteria sighed, flipping her butterscotch waves over her shoulder. "Eirelyn already told me before breakfast," she had actually burst into her room at six a.m., unable to sleep any longer and waking Asteria up to tell her about her time last night with Payton. "But I don't think she's over James. And I'm not sure how I feel about her saying that she wants to try dating you."
"Why not?" Payton asked, brows furrowing as he looked at her with confused eyes. "I thought you were trying to help me with her."
"I am." Asteria nodded, "I just... well you saw her on the night of the Report when your Dad started talking about Morrison and her Dad and James. She almost lost it, she was crying. I just don't think she's emotionally stable right now. And from what you just told me, she was really crying when she was playing the piano. I just don't think you should be so intimate so soon."
"Then what am I supposed to do?" Payton asked, looking lost. He seemed to think he was finally getting something he wanted, only to learn that it wasn't the case. "She's willing to try the Selection, I'm not going to stop seeing her now."
Asteria rolled her eyes, "I'm not saying to stop seeing her, I'm not even saying that you can't kiss her. I'm just saying that you shouldn't make-out with her so soon."
"I…" Payton blushed, "I wasn't really thinking when it happened. I was just happy that she's giving me a chance. That's all I want."
Asteria sighed, she knew that too, and honestly, she knew that Eirelyn was eventually going to give him that chance but…. "Remember to give the other girls a chance too,"
"I am," Payton said, he sighed, suddenly looking uncertain. "Do you think she's going to be okay though? Eirelyn?"
"She will. One thing about Eirelyn is that she loves with her entire heart and soul. Once you have her love, you'll never lose it. That's why when she loses someone it's so much worse for her. She held onto her grief the longest and she wouldn't let it go. But if what she said to me was true about moving on, then she's finally taking the first steps to go on with her life. But these are baby steps, Payton."
Payton nodded, "I'll be there for her if she needs me though," His eyes grew determined, "I'm going to keep trying to know her."
"Do that," Asteria sighed, knowing that whatever argument that she thought off to have Payton keep away from Eirelyn for a bit would fall on deaf ears. She honestly believed that Payton cared for Eirelyn, but she was also worried that they were getting close, too fast. "Just don't hurt her, Payton. I don't think she can survive another broken heart."
"I won't" Payton promised, "I saw her cry once and I really don't want to see it again."
Asteria gave him a small smile. "I really hope you don't Payton." She rose to her feet before quickly sitting back down, remembering a new equation that had popped up last night. "I really hope that you don't hurt her. Lyndon's here now."
Payton looked at her in confusion, "Eirelyn's brother? Yeah. I saw him last night."
"Well I should warn you that he is extremely protective of his twin sister," Asteria smirked a bit before she continued. "Honestly, if you break her heart, I doubt he'll care that you're a Prince or the future King. He'll shoot you himself."
She laughed lightly as Payton paled at that but he nodded, "Honestly, I understand that. If one of these guys in the Selection hurt Sara, I'd punch him. Same goes for Leandra and Julia."
"As any good brother should," Asteria nodded, finishing off the tea that had been offered to her. "Just be careful. And make sure you make a good impression on Lyndon. If you don't have Lyndon's approval, then I'm pretty sure you can kiss any chance you have with Eirelyn goodbye. She'll never be with anyone who doesn't have her brother's approval.
"I will," Payton said, standing when Asteria did, a small smile on his face as he looked at her but she was sure it hid the worry now. Lyndon was pretty hard to impress; any guy would be nervous. "We should really stop talking about Eirelyn on our dates. You are part of my Selection too."
Asteria laughed, "I don't mind, I'm here for both you and Eirey." She paused, thinking back to their first conversation, "Besides, you know that while I like you, I don't love you. We don't have to go on an actual date."
"No changed feelings then?" Payton joked, looking like he already knew the answer.
"No. Sorry to disappoint you," Asteria said, feeling sadness fill her as she thought of the man she loved.
"Do you want me to let you go home so you can try to be with him?" Payton asked.
Asteria shook her head, "I'm not leaving until I'm confident about you and Eirey. Besides, there's no future for me and the guy I love. There never was. It's also physically impossible for me to be with him now, even if there ever was a chance." She gave Payton a sad smile, "I'd better go. And just so you know, despite the make-out session with my best friend, I think you've been doing a great job with her."
Payton grinned back, "Thanks," He raised her hand to his mouth, pressing his lips against her knuckles in a swift kiss. "Have a good rest of your day Lady Asteria."
"I'm guessing that I'll see you at the gathering tonight?" Asteria asked before leaving.
Payton nodded, "Alyssa and Ebony have permission to use the kitchens for the whole day and we're set for having this gathering set during dinner time. The last thing I'm trying to convince my Dad about is the pajama dress part of the event."
Asteria laughed, "Well, I hope that we can just go in pajamas, it'll be a nice change of pace."
"Me too," Payton said, giving her one more bow before she turned to leave, a smile on her face.
Once she was out of his sight however, her smile slipped and she shook her head. What a mess. She knew she'd be worrying about Eirelyn and Payton for the rest of the Selection now. She just had to hope that everything would end for the best for them all.
Payton POV
Payton sighed as he went towards the council hall after his talk with Asteria. She'd given him so much to think about and he was so afraid of screwing up. Were things moving too fast between him and Eirelyn? Probably. They had gone from him telling her that they shouldn't kiss until she knew what she felt for him to making-out in one day. Yes, things were moving too fast, but he couldn't bring himself to really regret it. Each step forward in their relationship was a plus for him.
He calmly entered the council chamber, seeing his Dad already there with his advisors and some of his Great officers of state, Payton noted that Lady Brice was also at his Dad's side, looking at something.
"Father, Aunt Brice," Payton said, entering, they'd be starting on the selected today and how the girls did on interviews and the polls people had turned in last night on who the people liked most after the Report. They were allowed to do the poll after the Report last night. "How have things been looking?"
"See for yourself," His Dad said, nodding to Brice and a screen on the far wall flickered on, revealing a chart with the girls' pictures on it and a vote to see what people thought.
Payton rose his eyes at the results of what he saw, "Adelaide is leading the polls?" He asked stunned. Great. One of the girls he knew he was going to eliminate was the lead. The people would not be happy.
"Of course," It was Cormack who spoke and Payton already felt his shoulders stiffen. Cormack was one of the most annoying advisors who still believed in his Grandfather's laws and wasn't a fan of his Dad's. "Look at her family. They're almost as rich as the royal family. She would make an excellent Queen." And Cormack was also a person who believed in giving to the rich and higher caste.
"She doesn't seem interested in being Queen though. She barely looked at Payton." Lady Brice said.
"But you cannot ignore her family's status," Lady McCoy, a conservative advisor said, looking at Adelaide's picture. "A union of Payton and Adelaide would benefit the nation."
"I think that the Lady Adelaide wouldn't be a good choice at all," Payton turned to see General Avery speak up, he was the Lord High Secretary of his Dad's council, meaning that he was in charge of Homeland Defense. "She has wealth, but she loves to live in isolation. That is not what Illéa needs as a Queen. Illéa needs a Queen who is willing to be seen by the people and someone who is compassionate. Not someone who likes to hide and is closed off."
"Who would you like to see as the Queen?" Cormack asked, a judgmental light in his dark eyes.
"I think the second-place girl would make a much better Queen," Lord Avery said and Payton's eyes immediately went to the screen again and his heart skipped a beat when he saw Eirelyn's picture but he had to fight to keep the smile off his face. He didn't want anyone to know that he had a favorite.
"General Leger's daughter?" Lady McCoy asked, and from her tone, Payton could tell that she somewhat approved. "I think she'd be fine as well. Many people loved General Leger and if his daughter is Queen, you'll get a lot of support from the military."
"I hear that she's also big on charity events and that the lower caste in Carolina are particular fans of her," A more progressive advisor named Samson said, a smile on his face. "If she's made Queen, hopefully, she'll be able to connect with the lower caste in all of Illéa."
"I think she'd make a fine Queen as well," Payton turned his head in surprise towards his Dad who had a wistful look on his face.
"Who else is there?" Cormack asked, and Payton could tell that he didn't like Eirelyn as Queen.
"Lady Elle Winters is third in the polls. But let's not kid ourselves. She'd never be a good Queen. She'd cause more people to join the rebels." Lady Brice said, wrinkling her nose in disgust. "She's never tried to hide what she thinks of the lower caste."
"Agreed." Lord Avery said immediately.
"I agree as well," His Dad said and that relieved Payton. He wouldn't have to deal with clingy Elle anymore.
"The fourth choice is Lady Everly Randolph. She's a good candidate. She was in the foster system for a while before she was adopted by the Randolph family, but other than that, she has a nice clean slate. The fact that she was also in foster care will probably relate to some of the people in Illéa," Samson said.
Again, Payton had to keep himself from smiling. "She'd want to improve the foster system and those who are of the lower caste and poor. She told me on our date." He ended up saying.
Lady Brice nodded. "That's the feeling I got from her during the interviews, another good candidate for Queen."
"And lastly, we have Lady Raleigh Carlin," His Dad said and Payton turned his attention to Raleigh. "She was a dancer before she was injured during a routine."
"Does her injury hold her back from doing anything?" Lord Avery asked.
"It stops her from dancing, but I don't think it would stop her from duties as Queen," Payton said.
Everyone nodded at that and then turned their attention towards Payton, much to his confusion. "Aren't we going over the other girls?"
His Dad shook his head, "You don't have to eliminate any of the girls who didn't make our list, but we wanted you to see the top five in the polls for your first round of dates."
"It's about what I expected," Payton admitted. "I already have some girls that I plan to eliminate." He paused, wondering if he should say what he was about to say. He would lose favor with a good number of his Dad's advisors, and as future King, he'd still have the younger ones and not all of them were progressive. "Two of them are on the top five list."
"Who are they?" Cormack immediately demanded and Payton knew the fit he'd throw when he revealed them. Maybe he shouldn't say anything? Or should he eliminate the girls without saying anything?
"No one we have to worry about," His Dad said, shooting him a look that said not to say anything. "It's Payton's Selection and if he doesn't feel a connection with some of the girls, we can't force him to keep them."
"It depends on the girls," Cormack argued back, "We could lose a lot of power if he eliminates the wrong girls at the wrong time."
"I don't think we will," Payton said loudly before there could be a debate. "Is there anything else that we had to go over?"
Lady Brice nodded and the poll disappeared from the screen as it turned to black. "We have more reports of rebels attacking around the south and burning some crops there. And just this morning, we got a report in from August."
That immediately piqued Payton's interest. "What did he say?"
Lady Brice and his Dad exchanged quick looks. "August's soldiers and a platoon of Illéan troops were able to catch up with a group of rebels. A shootout ensued, but we came out victorious. Four of our soldiers died and all of the rebels of that group were killed except for two. As we speak, they're being transported to the palace so that we can question them."
Payton swallowed thickly at that news, they had lost four soldiers. He knew it could have been worse, but he never liked the loss of life. He always hated signing off on consolation letters, because what was a letter and money compared to having someone you love next to you? Eirelyn was a perfect example of how compensations didn't do anything to fix the grief.
"New Asia is also pressing us to accept their new terms of our trade deal even though we're not supposed to meet for another few months," His Dad added, looking frustrated, "And from what I've heard from Elise, things aren't going to get better."
"What would happen if we lost our trade agreement?" Payton asked.
"Well for one, the people of Illéa will realize that we lied to them about how well our deals are going," Lady Brice said, a frown on her face. "We'd also lose supplies of oils and minerals and the right to drill on certain lands. Some of our workers will also lose jobs."
"Well, we can't let New Asia bully us into terms that won't benefit us either. And I don't think that they're able to force our decision." Payton said he'd been reading up about New Asia ever since his Dad first gave him the documents about the new trade deal to find a way to stay with their original deal. "We still have more troops than them at least, and they're so focused on their factories that I've read that some smaller cities and towns haven't been completely restored after our 'war' with them." A war that his Grandfather had faked so Illéans wouldn't focus on the troubles at home. His Grandfather really was a horrible person.
His Dad nodded, looking proud. "Yes, and while I would like to have them stop trying to strong-arm us, we have other concerns. One is your Selection and the cost that it has on us, as well as Sara's." Payton felt guilty about that. The nation had built up its contingency extremely well during his Dad's reign, and their margins on money were no longer in the red but the Selection was extremely expensive.
"And there's that unemployment spike in the southern provinces, mainly Honduragua and Dominica. It won't be good if many of the people become frustrated and join the rebels against us." Payton nodded, he'd read those documents too. "We should send out relief checks to the unemployed people in the south."
"And where do you plan to get the funds for that?" Cormack asked scathingly.
Payton frowned at him, "These are our people and we cannot let them starve. We have a good amount of contingency in the palace vaults not related to the Selection."
There was a large silence at that and Payton grew frustrated. "If we do not work to help the people who need it most then it's not a question of will they turn against us, but when."
There was an even larger pause, "I understand what you're saying, your Highness," Samson said, being the first to speak. "However, that will take time as well. We'd have to look into who really has unemployment and not just trying to use the system. And the number of unemployed could potentially skyrocket, right now, there are just under two hundred. But if we start a census of unemployment, others may apply. And then, there is the issue of how other provinces will react, like in the north, west and east."
"Yes," McCoy nodded, we cannot help everyone and when people who do not need help hear of your relief checks, they will complain about how unfair it is."
Payton ran a hand tiredly through his hair, it was barely ten in the morning and already he wanted to crash down onto his bed. "Can we at least house some of them? From the reports I read, a lot of these people don't have lights or running water. Can we at least pay for a hotel for them?"
"That'll also raise in cost eventually. Hotels are expensive." McCoy said.
"Then what can we do?" Payton asked frustrated. Couldn't they see that he wanted to help the people? Why were they stopping him? He turned to his Dad, clear frustration in his eyes and his Dad sighed.
"I think we should give the families who have claimed unemployment relief checks that will cover three weeks. From there, we can see how things are going in the south." His Dad said, causing Payton to smile and Cormack and McCoy to grumble. "My son is right, we cannot just leave the people in the south to fend for themselves. That's how the southern rebels formed and why they were more violent. They thought we were ignoring them. However, since we're doing that, we cannot give any type of housing." As he said this, he looked straight at his son and even though Payton wasn't happy, he nodded. At least he was getting the people something.
"Moving on," Lady Brice said before any of the more conservative advisors could speak. "It's about Princess Sara's Selection."
Payton frowned, didn't they bury this issue already? They were going to allow Sara to continue her Selection, no complaints.
His Dad sighed again, and Payton could tell he really wished this topic was dropped as well. "Many of the foreign nobles and royals have been paying closer attention to Sara's Selection than we thought. Many nations, including Germany, Swendway, Russia, and Greece have noted her seemingly lack of interest in her selected because of the lack of dates compared to Payton, so they have once again offered an alliance by marriage to Sara."
"What?" Payton asked, anger in his voice. These people just wouldn't stop, would they? Was everyone against them? "What can we do to convince them that she's interested in the selected?"
Lady Brice's answer was blunt. "Have her go on more dates and be interested in them. Especially since she asked for this Selection."
Payton let out a sigh of relief. At least he was on top of one thing. "Then there's no need for concern there. Sara has four dates tomorrow. And she's interacting with the guys at our gathering tonight during dinner. Plenty of the boys are going to attend and so is Sara. The film crew should have plenty of pictures, and I think if we gather it up in the right way, it'll show she's interested because I know she is."
His Dad looked at him, "I'll believe you about Sara," He then glanced at the clock, "I think we'll break for now and reconvene after lunch."
"I have a date during that time," Payton immediately said and his Dad nodded. "If there's nothing else, let's break." His Dad said.
Payton watched as the advisors left the council room, some of them leaving and shooting him dirty looks. When they were all gone, Payton turned to his Dad who had remained along with Lady Brice. "So, Dad…." He began, a smile starting to form on his face, there was a topic he wanted to talk about without his advisors around.
"What is it, Payton?" The King asked, visibly relaxing now that the meeting was over.
"About the gathering for dinner with the girls and boys, can we wear pajamas?" Payton asked quickly holding his breath. "I think it'll be really fun and help some of the shyer people adjust to the palace."
Lady Brice rose her brow at his Dad and his Dad actually looked like he was contemplating it, a small smile forming on his face. "You want the media to capture, you and potentially your siblings in nightwear?" He sounded like he couldn't believe how ridiculous the idea was.
Payton grinned back and nodded. "I think it's a good idea Dad, really."
The King thought for a minute more before nodding. "I agree. My Father never let us do anything like this when it was my Selection and I think it would be good for the people to see you do something fun. Your Mother and I will just take our meals in our room tonight. It will give us a bit more time together too."
Payton felt thrilled at the agreement. He honestly never thought his Dad would agree to what he said. "Thanks, Dad," He said, giving him a firm pat on the soldier and nodding to Lady Brice before he left the council room. If his watch was right, he had an hour and a half before lunch still and he planned to spend it in his room to relax.
He had planned for a calm day today, he had a date for lunch with Lady Angel and then had a Report studio tour date with Catherine. Those were his only two dates today, partially because of the gathering that would happen tonight with the selected men and girls.
He would also make sure that Sara would interact with the guys tonight, he had allowed her to have no dates during the day as long as she had four dates tomorrow, and he could see that she was upset with him for pushing her on the dates but it was the only way he'd allow her to not have any dates today. And much to his surprise, it actually didn't take much to convince Liam to attend too, but maybe that was because Evelyn had forced him to attend. Unfortunately, Evelyn herself wouldn't be at the little gathering, choosing to instead spend time with Leandra and Julia who were not allowed to be in the gathering; their Dad deciding it was better to allow the older people to freely interact without people under sixteen. And luckily, enough, his Dad had allowed Anderson, Clay and Eirelyn's brother to attend too. Anderson and Clay because they were two of Payton's closest friends and Eirelyn's brother so that she could easily catch up with him. It should be one hell of a gathering and he would make sure to talk to both Ebony and Alyssa since they set up the whole meal.
As he thought about this, he walked into his room and his plans for relaxing a bit went right out the window when he saw Anderson talking animatedly to his brother Clay and surprisingly, the third brother, Franklin in his room.
"Hey, Dude!" Clay said being the first to notice him. He looked completely relaxed in civilian clothes, his sunny blonde hair mussed up and his blue eyes glowing with laughter.
Payton grinned, his tiredness leaving him. "Dude, get off my bed." He pushed Clay playfully before turning to his valet, his brows raised. "I know they're your brothers, but you can't just let them in here."
"I tried to get them to leave," Anderson said, and Payton really didn't believe him but shook his head before turning to the last brother.
"I didn't know you were back Franklin," Payton said, looking at the third brother, he was less than a year younger than Anderson, Clay the youngest, but barely.
Franklin shrugged, he had the same sandy brown hair like Anderson, but unlike both Clay and Ander, who had blue eyes, Franklin had warm brown eyes. "I finished my internship early over in Kent, but I'm going to start one here in Angeles, even my parents didn't know I was coming back."
"Two of their sons are back. I'm sure they're glad." Payton rolled his eyes, about to look at some documents on his laptop before realizing something. "Frank, you work in architect, right?"
"Yeah, why?" Franklin asked curiously.
"Do you know anything about sustainable housing? Hypothetically, if the government wanted to create a bunch of smaller, sustainable houses, would it be possible?"
Franklin frowned at him, "It's completely possible and you guys probably don't know this but there are now cheaper materials on the market that are nearly as strong as real stone and wood. The cost wouldn't be as bad as you would think. Why? Are you thinking of a housing project?"
"Maybe…" Payton said, the gears in his brain spinning. Franklin had just given him an idea, but he wouldn't present it to his Dad or the council until he had a really good argument.
"Payton," Clay got his attention again and he saw all three brothers giving him a strange look. "What are you thinking?"
"That there are a lot of people in the south that need roofs over their heads, or electricity or running water. But we apparently can't help them on that front." Payton said, these were his closest friends, he knew that they wouldn't tell anyone else.
"It would cost a lot of money," Franklin nodded, "And you don't want to go too cheap on materials or the house will just fall in a few years. The best way to go would be to use recycled materials that are reinforced to be harder like the real ones and use energy-saving windows and maybe solar panels. It would be expensive in the short-run but in the long run, you would get the money back because you'd know those houses would stand for decades."
"But again money," Anderson butted in, "And from what Payton is saying, it seems like the council doesn't want to pay."
"You can lessen taxes from the south," Clay suggested, "It would make it easier for them."
Payton immediately shook his head, "Then we'd have to do it for the whole country and while I am for the lessening of taxes, there's no way I can get the council to agree with me. My Dad barely got them to agree to give three weeks of relief checks to all the people in the south who claimed unemployment."
"That's a victory," Clay noted, brows raising.
It was, Payton conceded, but it was a small one in the long run. "Yeah, but how much will it really help if their houses don't work? They can't use a three-week check to buy a house, and the check will only go so far for hotels…"
All three of the brothers looked at each other, they could tell how much this bothered Payton, but they were even more powerless than him. Finally, Franklin sighed, "How about I write down a list of ideas for sustainable housing for you and when we think we have a good argument that will keep a roof over heads and not completely bankrupt the country, you present the idea to your Dad?"
"You'd do that?" Payton asked, looking surprised by the offer.
"Of course," Franklin grinned. "Now what is this party I'm hearing about?" He asked, trying to change the topic into something more interesting. "Am I invited?"
"Of course, you are," Payton grinned, relaxing into the chair he had settled in. "I would have invited you already if I knew you were back. You can keep Ander from being a spoil-sport."
Clay laughed at that, "Please, they're both spoil-sports. Ander doesn't even want to go."
"I know," Payton grinned, looking at the youngest brother, "Did you give my invitation to Leger?"
Clay nodded, "He was really surprised but he said he'll go. He wants to talk to his sister in a more relaxed situation too. They didn't really get to reunite last night."
"I'd like to talk to him too," Payton nodded, he really was curious about the other Leger. He wanted to see if he was anything like General Leger.
"Talking about Legers…" Anderson said, a look of amusement on his face, "This came for you a bit before you got back." He held up an envelope that was a bit smaller than a manila envelope and Payton already had a feeling that he knew what it was.
"I'll take it." Payton immediately said, pushing himself to his feet and holding his hand out, but Anderson pulled it away from him, a smile on his face. "Anderson!"
Anderson shook his head, "It's not going anywhere and you have a lunch date to get to."
"Damn it," Payton muttered, noticing that Anderson was right, he'd been so caught up about talking about housing with Franklin that he missed the time. "Don't let your brothers touch it." He ordered, making sure that he looked presentable in his well-fitting light gray suit and dark purple tie. "Actually, get out of my room you two. You guys aren't even supposed to be here." He said to Clay and Franklin before he headed out of his room and towards the doors that led out to the gardens.
He'd be meeting Lady Angel by the doors that led to the garden and saw that she was already there, dressed in an off-shoulder navy blue dress with a hem that ended just below her knees. Her golden-brown hair flowed down her back in loose curls and the eyeshadow on her lids really brought out her hazel eyes. "Lady Angel," He called and she turned, smiling happily at him.
"Payton," She curtseyed to him easily enough and he offered her his arm, which she immediately. He thought that she may have been holding on a bit too tight.
"Ready for lunch?" Payton asked, smiling down at the girl, from what he remembered of their first meeting she was extremely energetic. Even now, she was bouncing on her toes as If she couldn't wait to go.
"I've been ready! This is literally the most exciting part of the day!" Angel said her voice filled with excitement and causing Payton's smile to drop a bit.
"Not excited for the pajama party tonight?" He asked and he then remembered something. Once his date with Catherine was over, he'd have to get a message to the staff to make sure that they told their Ladies and the men that they were allowed to wear pajamas, he had meant to do so with Anderson but Clay and Franklin being in his room had distracted him.
Angel shook her head, "Not really since all the other girls will be there too," She said as they started walking out into the garden and towards the gazebo where Eirelyn, Jules and Catherine had been the other day.
"Fair enough," Payton said, helping Angel sit down before he settled himself down opposite of her. "I hope you like paninis."
"Love them," Angel said, clapping her hands together. Her foot kept tapping on the stone ground and it was annoying the hell out of Payton, but being the gentleman that he was, he didn't say anything.
"Have you enjoyed the palace so far?" Payton asked, looking at Angel after a few moments of silently eating.
Angel nodded, "It's really nice, especially your pool. I can't believe that the palace has one."
"You qualify for Olympic swimming don't you Lady Angel?" Payton asked curiously. Angel was incredibly young and the fact that she could qualify for an Olympic sport was amazing to him.
Angel nodded, "Please call me Angie and yes I do. I was afraid that I would get out of practice since I thought you didn't have a pool, but since you do, I've been practicing a lot."
That was good. At least the pool his Mom convinced his Dad to put in a few years after their marriage was getting used. "Do you like to do anything else besides swim?"
"Well I like to stargaze, dance, write and read. I guess I do a bunch." Angel said.
"It's good to have hobbies." Payton smiled slightly, he himself had many, but so little time to do anything.
Angel nodded again and without him asking, went into a long rant about her writings and what she liked to read, not really giving Payton much allowance to speak. She went over how she knew so many dance styles and what her parents did, without seemingly need to breathe, surprising him. It was interesting, but at the same time, Payton was finding it had to keep up with her.
"That's nice," Payton said when Angel started to go on and talk about what her sister, Luna did and who her husband was. "But it looks like I should get you back to your room." Lunch had flown by because she kept talking, and while Payton was glad, it made him realize he didn't have much of a connection with Lady Angel.
Angel shook her head, "Can you take me to the Women's room? I'm meeting some of the other girls there."
"Of course," Payton said, helping her up and walking her through the palace halls towards the Women's room. Once they were there, the maids stationed at the door curtseyed to him before opening the large double doors to allow Angel in. "Have a good rest of your day Lady Angel." He kissed her knuckles softly.
"You too," Angel said, a blush on her cheeks as she quickly went into the Women's room.
When Payton turned to leave, he heard her loudly boast, "Payton just kissed my hand!" causing him to shake his head, that was the final nail in the coffin, now he knew that she really didn't belong in the palace.
At least this next date, he knew he was going to enjoy it. And it was somewhat of a trial run to see how he would react to having a selected man near one of his girls.
Catherine POV
Catherine couldn't wait for her date with Payton. She was getting the tour of the Report studio that Raquelle had promised her last night and she just couldn't wait. Payton had said that he would meet her by the stairs that led to the Report and when she got to the stairs, she found Payton there already waiting for her. He didn't notice her right away though, he was looking at something on his phone, a small frown on his face. She noticed how good he looked with his light gray suit jacket, dark slacks and simple white shirt with a dark purple tie. His honey blonde hair was neatly combed into waves and when he looked at her with his light hazel eyes, she felt warmth spread through her.
"Payton," She called gently and he looked up, a warm smile spreading across his face when he saw her. "Are we all set?"
Payton nodded, pocketing his phone. "Yeah. Raquelle's meeting us at the studio and Ben Taylor will also be there."
Catherine frowned at that, "Can I ask why?" She knew Raquelle would be there, but she didn't really want anyone else to be there. It was supposed to be her alone time with Payton.
Payton looked sheepish, "I thought he might give you a different view about stage management, it may not be his set, but Ben probably has an idea what happens backstage. Maybe he can tell you a different viewpoint."
"Oh," Catherine said, feeling her smile become more genuine. Payton had invited Ben so that she could learn more and she couldn't help but think that it was really sweet. "Thank you," She said but then paused, remembering how Raquelle had acted despite the short time she had spoken to the game show host. "Will Raquelle be okay with that? It didn't seem like she likes him."
"She grudgingly respects him." Payton smirked, "Another reason why I invited him was to mess with her a bit."
"Okay," Catherine said, as they neared the Report studio. The lights were on, but there was no one there except for Raquelle and Ben Taylor, who she was trying to stand as far away from as possible. Ben was making it hard though since he just followed her around like a puppy.
"We're here," Payton said and Catherine didn't miss the look of absolute relief that Raquelle shot them and had to suppress her own giggles. Why did Raquelle dislike Ben so much anyways? "Ready for the tour Catherine?" He asked, light hazel eyes warm. He really was cute.
"Yes, let's start right away," Raquelle said leading them, almost marching really to the sound booth.
Catherine stared down at all the buttons with awe, there seemed to be a dozen more buttons than what she was used to. Did they really need all this for their studio?
"Do you know what all these buttons do?" Raquelle asked, looking at Catherine, some expectation on her face.
"Well here's the sound and these sliding ones control the volume, it's not that hard to figure out," Catherine said, gently touching each of the buttons, she realized that she sounded a bit snappish, but Raquelle was looking at her like she didn't know anything. Catherine could only assume it was because of Ben's presence. Or maybe it was because he was casually leaning on the taller girl's shoulder. "around here is how you select and control each of the different mics, like how to mute one while someone else is talking."
She looked at the soundboard curious, "And I assume here is how you control the feedback so you don't get the whines." She nodded to another set of blue buttons and when she looked back at Raquelle, the older girl looked impressed.
"You missed a part," Catherine jumped when Ben suddenly appeared next to her. He motioned at a smaller soundboard to the left of the main soundboard. "These controls right here control or mimic audience sound, like laughter and some claps if the Report needs it. We have it in my studio too where we film the gameshow. Don't you have it in the theater?"
Catherine glanced back at Payton and he gave her an encouraging look. "No, of course not. I work in live theater, so there's an actual audience. And personally, I've never worked on a comedy play."
"Shame," Ben said, looking her over with his light blue eyes. "That's the best part of the entertainment. The fake laughing sounds."
Raquelle led them out of the sound booth and towards the actual stage. "You knew a lot. Payton told me that you worked technical theater, but I didn't think you'd get almost all the buttons. How old are you anyway?"
"Twenty," Catherine said, a small blush appearing on her cheeks. She was barely five foot two inches and that made people automatically assume that she was younger than she was.
"Twenty?" Ben looked like he didn't believe her and that irritated her. "You look like your barely sixteen."
"Well I'm twenty," Catherine snapped, feeling irritated, she knew it was irrational but her height had always been a sensitive topic for her because it was always the same questions. Always the same observations about her height. She didn't like being told she was short every single day, which actually happened when she was back in Waverly. Every one in three costumers always asked her about her height or age at the coffee shop back home and she was tired of it.
Ben looked a bit taken aback by her response, but shrugged, a smile on his face, "No need to bite my head off midget." He said calmly and Catherine chose not to respond. She would not take the bait in front of the prince.
"So, this podium is where you guys make the more serious reports right?" Catherine asked, looking towards Payton instead of Ben.
Payton nodded, "And over there is where the interviews are conducted." He nodded to where the girls who had been interviewed last night sat while they talked to Raquelle.
"Hey, Cat," Ben again, she looked at him again, annoyed that he was taking her attention away from Payton, the guy she was actually on a date with. "Do you know how they cross the cameras? Or how they have two people on the screen at the same time?"
"Of course, I don't," Catherine said as she and Payton joined Raquelle and Ben at another booth, but this one must control the function of cameras slightly.
"Well, these are the controls," Ben explained pointing to the camera board. "You see this little stick here? It's kinda like a gear shifter, but it's a screen fader. It slowly fades out one screen while another transitions onto place." Ben explained, pointing to a sleek gray lever. "This one completely switches screens with no transition." He nodded to a white lever that instead of going up and down, went right to left. "And this," Ben gently touched a large square button on the camera board, is what will split a screen in two, allowing viewers to see two people on the screen at the same time while they're on different spots. The white button on the right allows the square on the right to take up the full screen once it's decided that and vice-versa if you press the square on the left."
Catherine was so invested in Ben's explanation that she didn't even realize that she was leaning in close to him until his arm brushed against hers, causing her to jump back in surprise. "Sorry." She squeaked. Causing Ben to laugh.
"No problem, did you catch all of that?" Ben asked, giving her a smile and from the glow of his eyes, Catherine could tell that Ben absolutely loved talking about the set. She also could tell that he knew a lot despite being in front of the cameras and technical work instead of behind. "Anything you want to add Raquelle?"
Raquelle shook her head and for the first time, Catherine noticed Payton standing awkwardly to the side with Raquelle. When had she pulled away from him? Wasn't she holding onto his arm? Or was she so invested into Ben's explanation that she had moved without Payton unknowingly?
"I think you covered everything. Is there anything else you wanted to know Catherine?"
"No, I think I got everything," Catherine said, moving away from Ben and back to Payton. She shouldn't have gotten so close to Ben anyways, not when the Prince was watching. She took his offered arm again and gave him a small smile. "This was fun, Payton."
"It was," Payton agreed, "I learned a lot today, did you enjoy yourself?"
Catherine nodded, but leaned up, trying to whisper in his ear. Payton got the hint and leaned down. "I had fun, but maybe next time… do you think we can do something where it's just us?"
Payton looked at her with surprise, and Catherine was embarrassed to ask the question but the smile he gave her was worth it. "Of course," He nodded.
"Great," Catherine said as they made the way out of the studio, but as they were leaving, Catherine felt a pair of eyes on her and when she looked back, she saw Ben looking at her with a curious look in his eyes.
When he noticed her looking at him, he gave her a subtle wink, a smile on his face and for some reason, Catherine blushed before quickly looking ahead again and trying to ignore the butterflies that appeared in her stomach.
It didn't matter that Ben was cute and knew so much about studio technology or that he was apparently extremely knowledgeable in working the equipment and had the same interest as her. She was here for Payton and nothing would change that.
Maxon POV
Maxon sat behind his desk at his office, fiddling with his pen nervously. He knew he should be working on his budget Reports but he couldn't stop thinking about what had happened during lunch previously and now he was waiting for a certain girl to appear.
During Lunch
Maxon had chosen to eat lunch with the girls and men of the Selection for lunch, and he liked the simplicity of it, warm pressed bread; paninis because the Ladies Alyssa and Ebony had full reign of the kitchen today to prep and cook for their gathering tonight.
He ate silently, occasionally listening to Julia excitedly tell Kriss how her morning went while looking over the men and girls. Leandra seemed bored and she ignored all of Sara's attempts to talk to her as she picked at her food and Maxon could only guess that she was still disappointed about not being allowed to the Selected pajama party that night. He knew she wanted to be involved, however, he really thought that the young ladies and men should be allowed to enjoy themselves tonight. Liam sat to his left, talking with Evelyn who would giggle on occasion; it was good to see those two getting along again, for a while, it seemed as if they had been fighting.
With his family occupied, Maxon was free to look over the selected for both Payton's Selection and Sara's too, even though he was still worried about her lack of dates, he trusted Payton when he said everything would be okay. The men were all dressed in suits that fitted their forms and the girls all wore varying degrees of dresses. Some revealing like Ladies Rebecca and Elle and some classy like Ladies Asteria and Raleigh. He noticed that some girls also wore plainer dresses, but it didn't take away from their looks.
It was while his chocolate brown eyes were roaming the selected however that he saw it. An ear tug.
His eyes stopped on America's daughter, Eirelyn who was watching him, and when she saw that he was looking at her, her hand shot up and she subtly tugged on her ear. He couldn't help but notice that she looked confused and when he didn't do anything, she quickly tugged on her ear again and Maxon nodded, feeling a sense of dread fill him. America must have taught her that ear tug for a reason and despite his dread, he wanted to know why.
Maxon's Office
Now here he was, waiting for Lady Eirelyn to appear, he had just sent one of his aides for her to come to his office and know he was anxiously waiting for her.
"Your Majesty," Maxon looked to see his aide, Lina at the door, a neutral look on her face. "I've brought Lady Eirelyn as you requested."
Maxon nodded, "Thank you, Lina," He said, he watched the older woman hold open the door and Eirelyn slip into his office, looking nervous as she curtseyed to him and he noticed that she was holding a beautifully carved wooden box in her hands the size of a shoe-box and a letter on top of it.
"King Maxon," Eirelyn greeted and politely, a tentative smile on her face as she looked at him.
Maxon only smiled at her, "Lady Eirelyn, please take a seat." He said, nodding to one of the chairs on the opposite side of his desk. "Can I get you anything? Coffee? Tea?"
"No thank you, Your Majesty," Eirelyn said as she settled herself in the chair and Maxon took this chance to study her and he had to hide his surprise.
She didn't look exactly like America like he first thought. Maybe it had been his mind playing tricks on him when he first saw her. Eirelyn's face was fuller than America's, whose face was a bit longer. Eirelyn's hair was also several shades darker than Eirelyn's and of course, her eyes were green instead of icy blue. Her skin was also tanned instead of fair. Everything about Eirelyn was fuller and while she did resemble America to a degree, Maxon thought she was a perfect combination of both America and Aspen.
"King Maxon?" Eirelyn asked and he shook his head, she was probably confused by his silence.
"Yes, I was just thinking about how you resemble both your parents," Maxon said, giving her a kind smile. "I'm sorry about your Father, by the way, I didn't mean to upset you last night." He had seen Eirelyn's tears and felt guilty about causing them. Honestly, he had forgotten that she would be in the audience.
Eirelyn shook her head, "I shouldn't have acted like that, I am better now though," She said and Maxon wasn't sure if he could believe her but he nodded.
"Where did you learn the ear tug?" Maxon asked, changing the topic to the matter at hand, that's why they were both here anyways.
Eirelyn gave a small smile, "Once I was selected my Mom pulled me aside and gave me this box and told me to tug my ear when I had your attention, she said that you'd know what it meant and would set up a meeting. Honestly, I didn't really believe her at first but here we are." There was a pause, "What does that mean? Tugging your ear?"
Maxon felt his chest tighten and the familiar pain that went through him as he remembered his own Selection and the secret means of communication he set up with America. Some days, it all seemed so long ago, but others, it felt just like yesterday when he chose Kriss over her and saw her heartbreak. His heart had broken on that day too. "It was a gesture we used that no one else did during my Selection. It meant we wanted to talk to each other." He finally said, remembering America's smile and icy blue eyes. It hurt, part of him still ached for her and while he thought part of him would always regret choosing Kriss, he could never regret his kids, they were his life.
"Why did you want to talk to me?" Maxon asked, shaking himself out of his thoughts. America was his past, Kriss and his family were his future.
Eirelyn held up the box and put it on his desk. "My Mom told me to give you this, but she said to read this first. Honestly, I've been building up my courage to do this, it's not every day that you can just ask to talk to the King." As she spoke, she pushed the thick envelope on the box forward and Maxon felt his heartbeat pick up and he swallowed thickly. A letter from America. At the moment, it seemed like gold to hi. He hadn't talked to America in over twenty years and now he was finally getting a chance to hear from her. "I don't know what's in the box though."
"Thank you for delivering this to me," Maxon said, struggling to focus on the girl in front of him, every nerve in his body seemed to be filled with lightning, all he wanted to do was rip open America's letter, but he couldn't do that with her daughter sitting in front of him. "Is there anything else you needed Lady Eirelyn?" He asked the girl, it was harder to look at her now, because now in his mind she was starting to look exactly like America.
"I'm-" She was cut off when the door to his office suddenly opened and Payton walked in, but he stopped when he saw Eirelyn sitting in front of his desk.
"Eirey, what are you doing here?" Payton asked, looking at Maxon stunned as if he couldn't believe what he was seeing. He walked over to the desk and sat down without invitation much to Maxon's shock. He usually didn't do that but something else caught his attention.
'Eirey' huh? Maxon watched silently, momentarily distracted by what America had sent him as he watched his son and one of his selected interact. He noticed the small smile that appeared on Eirelyn's face when Payton said her nickname. He also noticed how Payton seemed completely focused on Eirelyn, a tender look in his eyes that Maxon had never seen before. The irony wasn't lost on him. Like father, like son. He thought watching the two talk as if he wasn't there, Eirelyn laughing softly at something Payton said and his smile widening.
He allowed them to ignore him for a bit longer. This was a match he'd have to keep an eye on; part of him wondered if they'd end up like America and him or if they'd have a better outcome. He could only hope. He watched as Payton gently took Eirelyn's hand in his, flipping it over so that he could run his own fingers against some roughened skin, talking about how the skin in that area hardened because of how they had to hold the bow for a violin or other string instruments. That's when Maxon decided to interrupt. This was his office after all.
"Payton, did you actually need something?" He asked his son, raising a brow at him and Payton had the decency to look sheepish.
Payton shook his head, "I just heard from Lina that Eirey was talking to you and got curious." He suddenly looked nervous, "Everything is okay right?"
"Yes, everything is fine." Maxon sighed, "I was just about to excuse her, why don't you escort her out?"
Payton smiled, before nodding once. He stood up and offered his arm to Eirelyn who took it with only a hint of hesitation. "Just call me if you need anything Dad."
"Make sure you finish the reports before your pajama dinner party tonight," Maxon said smiling. "And thank you for delivering this letter to me Lady Eirelyn."
"You're welcome your Majesty," Eirelyn curtseying for Maxon one more time before leaving with Payton who looked curious about the contents on his desk, but he allowed Eirelyn to drag him out of the office and Maxon was thankful for that. He really needed to be alone. He needed to know what the letter said.
When he was alone Maxon slowly opened the letter, noticing that his hands were shaking as he did so and pulled out the slip of paper, his heartbeat quickening by the second as he unfolded it to reveal her familiar slanted handwriting and just that already made tears prick at his eyes, but he forced himself to read the letter:
My Dearest Maxon,
It's been so long…
Sara POV
"I can't believe that I'm doing this…" Sara said, looking at herself in the mirror. She was dressed in incredibly fluffy white and red pajama pants and a simple, red V-neck shirt.
Evelyn laughed, "You look extremely casual. That's for sure." She was still dressed in the creamy pink day dress she had chosen to wear that day. "Part of me regrets saying no to the invite."
"You can still come," Sara pointed out hopefully. "You should come."
Evelyn shook her head, remember, you said that you would try to interact with your selected and the girls. I don't think I should be there. Besides, I have to watch Leandra and Julie and make sure they don't try to sneak into your party."
"Why's Raquelle not coming? This seems to be here scene." Sara said. She noted that Evelyn seemed to stiffen at the Report host's name and wondered why. Were they arguing now too? What was happening? At first, it seemed like Evelyn and Liam were arguing, but now it seemed that Evelyn was arguing with Raquelle too. All of them usually got along.
"I don't know why Raquelle isn't going," Evelyn said, flipping her hair over her shoulders, "Just try to have fun Sara," Evelyn said, clearly not wanting to talk about Raquelle.
Before Sara could respond, there was a knock on her door and it opened to reveal Liam dressed in a pair of black sweats and a black shirt. "Ready to go Sis?" He asked, wondering over to Evelyn and giving her a kiss on the cheek, but it seemed stiff and he didn't kiss her on the lips like usual, just her cheek. "You came to get me?"
"Well, Payton thought you should be escorted in," Liam explained.
Sara rolled her eyes, but nodded, "I'll see you later Evelyn," She said leaving her room with Liam and noting that he didn't even kiss her goodbye. Should she ask about that? Or was it too personal? She decided to leave it for the moment, they didn't need to be seen arguing in front of the selected. "I'm surprised you agreed to come." She said instead.
Liam shrugged, "I like a good party, and it's even better since we're in pajama bottoms," He grinned at her, "This is completely my scene."
Sara rolled her eyes again but paused in front of the dining room, she was afraid, this was going to be the second time that she saw boys in a large group.
Liam gave her an encouraging look before entering the dining hall and Sara followed soon after to find the dining hall transformed. Their normal formal tables were now draped with colorful tablecloths in colors like red, blue and green, and some of the formal tables were replaced by standing tables instead. Some of the chairs were replaced by beanbag chairs or stools. And the layout was much more whimsical instead of a straight layout. She noted the drink stand in the corner and the long table that should be holding all the food. At least she hoped so, she could smell something delicious in the air A mix of spices, cinnamon, and rich meat, it made her mouth water. She also smelled hints of chocolate and coffee in the air, this dinner was going to be good.
As she came in, many of the guys had paused in their conversation and looked at her, as if waiting to see who she would go talk to first. Sara looked around and saw that Payton was already there and laughing with Clay, Anderson, and Franklin. She had. To make sure to talk to them before the night was over; especially Franklin.
"Go on," Liam said in her ear before going over to talk to a group of girls. Sara recognized Lady Raleigh and Catherine in the group and was tempted to go with him but she had to talk to her guys.
She looked around again and saw Jonathon standing by himself, just observing the others around him and that's who she went towards. She had really connected with Jonathon the first time she had talked to him and hopefully, it would be just as easy.
"Sir Jonathon, how have you been?" Sara asked politely, smiling when she saw his surprise as being the first guy to be approached by the Princess.
"I've been well, Your Highness," Johnathon said and Sara saw that he was wearing a gray pair of sweats and a pattered red and black shirt. "What do you think about this pajama party?"
Sara let out a soft hmmm, "Well I am honestly surprised that my Dad let us wear pajamas." Sara said but she smiled, a lot of the girls and guys seemed to be enjoying themselves. "I can't wait to try Alyssa and Ebony's food though."
Jonathon smiled, "Me too, by the way, it smells it's bound to be good." He said happily. "The food here has been the best and I wish that my family could eat here. I think they'd die by how good the food is."
"How is your family?" Sara asked, remembering him saying something about how his family had been struggling after his Dad's death and how he had seven siblings.
"Good," Jonathon said, smiling again, he had just gotten a letter from his Mom and she told him how the payments to his family were already helping their situation. "I'm glad that I entered the Selection and got to meet you. My sisters are always asking about you. Especially the triplets."
Sara felt guilty at that, she had been avoiding the guys and he probably didn't have anything to tell his sisters. "I'm glad that the payments are helping. Have you guys been doing anything in the Men's Parlor?" It was created specifically for the men because of Sara's Selection and it functioned like the Women's room for the guys.
"Well, I've been talking to Zaire, Paul, and Hugo a lot." Jonathon explained, "We just spend our days comparing movies and our favorite books. Sometimes, we just stay in our rooms."
Sara nodded, again feeling a bit bad, they had nothing to do because she barely went on dates with them. After this first week, she hoped that it would change. Payton was pushing her to date the guys more and she knew she had to.
"Boring?" Sara asked teased.
"Not right now," Jonathon said, his eyes went around the room and he chuckled. "I think some of the guys kinda want to kill me."
Sara blinked and glanced around to see that there were, in fact, many of the boys looking at them. "I guess I better go around."
Jonathon nodded, "Being the first one you chose to talk to already makes my night," He blushed then, or Sara at least thought she blushed because his cheeks took on a red undertone. "And I probably should have said this in the beginning, but you look really pretty tonight."
Now it was Sara's turn to blush. She didn't expect anyone to say that to her since she was extremely under-dressed in her opinion. "Thank you, Jonathon, I like your shirt by the way."
Jonathon looked down at the checkered pattern and grinned, "My brother got this for me before I came. Never thought I'd be wearing it to this type of function though."
"Well you look nice," Sara said, giving him one more smile before wandering away to look for others to talk too.
As she looked around the doors to the kitchen finally opened and Sara watched groups of palace staff bring out platters of food and the smell that flowed from the kitchen really caused her mouth to water. She saw platters of steaks, and honey glazed chicken, pots of warm soup and what she thought was pulled pork because of the buns that were being carried with it. She also spotted glass bowls of mixed salad with smaller bowls of dressing on the side. In addition to that, she thought she saw some sort of meat drenched in brown sauce and steamed mixed veggies.
"Wow," Sara almost jumped at the voice behind her and turned to see Conner and Zaire standing behind her, their eyes on the food. "Alyssa and Ebony made that?" Conner asked in amazement.
"Looks good," Zaire added quietly, his voice was soft and from Sara gathered he was extremely shy. He then looked at Sara and smiled his sweet, shy smile. "Would you like to get some food with us?"
Sara looked carefully at both Zaire and Conner, they were both sweet guys and she'd actually gone on dates with the both of them. Conner had been her first date because she was curious about how his life was with a daughter and Zaire had followed soon after because of his love of music. She had allowed him to play the piano for her instead of talking and the music he produced was magical. It was just a shame that he wasn't a talker. But maybe he was growing out of being a loner? He was with Conner after all.
She couldn't completely stifle her laugh however when she saw what Conner was wearing. He had on simple dark red sweats on but his shirt was hot pink with a Hello Kitty waving on it and glitter. "What is that shirt?" She laughed.
Conner looked down at his shirt before looking back up at her, a smile on his face. "My daughter gave it to me as a good luck charm before I came here. I think it would be good for me to wear it." Amusement danced in his cinnamon brown eyes.
"I think he rocks the Hello Kitty shirt," Zaire joked softly as they went towards the food, a line was already starting to form.
"It does match his eyes," Sara agreed, looking up and smiling, he had nice eyes, even she had to admit that. "How has the first week of the Selection been for you?"
Conner paused, "Okay, I really miss my daughter though. I showed you a picture of her, didn't I?"
Sara nodded, he did and the little girl was the most adorable kid she had ever seen, almost as adorable as Julia. "Her name is Amelia, isn't it? She's a cutie. Have you been able to contact her?"
Conner shook his head, remorse on his face. "I sent a letter, but you know how it is. And she's too young to really write. I wish I could see her again."
"What are some things that you guys did together?" Sara asked the line was moving along nicely for food, thanks to the efficiency of the staff and Ebony and Alyssa who quickly refilled platters when they ran out.
"We used to finger paint or play ball," He paused, thinking, "We also played a bunch of dress-up. I even let her put make-up on my face, let me tell you, I really do not look good in bright red lipstick."
Zaire laughed quietly at that, probably imagining how Conner would look like Sara was, but she didn't try to stifle her giggles and now they had just reached the tables that held food on them.
"What about you Zaire? Anything new?" Sara asked kindly, she knew that he wasn't very talkative and was shy, but she didn't want to exclude him from their conversation.
Zaire shook his head quietly, and Sara watched as he gathered some food onto his plate, salad, honey glazed chicken and some tender looking steak. "Since I was able to go into the music room, I've just been there. I usually try to go when there's no one else in there though. I don't like spending time in the Men's parlor either."
Sara frowned, but she put a creamy looking pasta on her plate and scooped up her own salad too. "You don't talk to any of the guys?"
Zaire shook his head quietly again, and this time Sara could see the blush on his cheeks.
"Zaire's just shy and some of the guys in the Men's parlor... well, they can be a bit loud," Conner said, and Sara noticed that he had piled food onto his plate like most of the other guys, but unlike Zaire.
"You work don't you Zaire?" Sara asked, refusing to give up getting better responses, "Maybe you should have helped Alyssa and Ebony, I think it would have been great."
Zaire's blush deepened, "I-I think I w-would have screwed up somehow," He said softly, "But I am excited to try this."
Sara nodded, the guy looked like he was really trying not to squirm. Was he really this nervous and shy? He did better when it was just them. She was about to say something else when she saw Payton waving her over and noted that he was sitting by Franklin and Anderson. "My brother wants me, have a good meal you two." She said, a small smile forming on her face when they both tried to bow while holding plates of food.
She quickly made her way over to her brother and his two friends and warmed under the look of pride he had on his face. She joined them at the smaller table and settled down next to her brother. She looked around the dining hall and saw the girls mixed with the guys as they started eating the dinner that Alyssa and Ebony made for them. Interestingly enough, she didn't see either of the cooks. "Where are Alyssa and Ebony?"
"Still in the kitchen," Payton explained, "I tried to talk to them but they're both in chef mode and kicked me out. I'll have to talk to them when they're out here. I saw you talk to some of the guys, how was it. Did you think about who you want to date tomorrow?"
She shook her head and took a bite out of the pasta to keep from responding, but she was taken aback by the explosion of flavor that happened in her mouth. The pasta was creamy, peppery and smoky all at once and there was a spicy kick that came later on.
"Good isn't it?" Franklin grinned at her and she blushed a bit. "Your girls can cook Payton."
Payton nodded, "They can. I have to be honest, I'm kinda surprised by how well they both can cook."
Sara took a moment to study here brother and noticed that he wore black sweatpants and a solid dark gray t-shirt. Franklin was dressed the same as Payton, but it seemed like Anderson went for pajama bottoms instead of sweats and he wore a black sweatshirt with his sleeves rolled up. "It really is good," She finally said, stirring the pasta on her plate as she thought. "What are Mom, Dad, and the rest eating?"
"The staff put some food that Alyssa and Ebony cooked on plates and it was delivered to them before the food was brought out here," Payton explained.
"Makes sense," Sara said, looking thoughtful, "How have your dates been going Payton? You've had way more than me. Do you really think that your Queen is in this group?"
Payton looked surprised by the sudden question and he choked on his bite of steak. "I think so," He finally said after he recovered. "I don't know which one she is yet, and I have girls I plan to eliminate a few this week. Do you plan on eliminating anyone?"
She raised her brows at that, "I've barely dated any of these guys Payton," She ignored his own raised brows that practically screamed, who's fault is that? And kept on talking. "I need a few more dates before I can decide. Besides, I'm not looking for a King, so I can take more time."
"More time but don't start ignoring them again," Payton said and there was no mirth in his eyes as he looked at her and Sara wondered what had happened. He seemed calmer last night, "You wanted this Selection Sara. Other nations are noticing that you aren't going on dates."
"I know," Sara rolled her eyes, finishing off the grilled shrimp she got herself before looking at him again. "You already got on my case once. I won't ignore them." She stood up then and stepped back. "Now if you excuse me, I'm going to go interact with the guys like you want." She stormed off before he could respond and headed for the first guy, she saw that was finished with his meal. Brody Silver; he was getting a drink at the drinks bar that the staff had set up for this event.
"Sir Brody, did you enjoy your meal?" She asked, she looked at his wide sea-green eyes and saw that he was surprised by her approach. He recovered easily though and nodded, giving her a smile that could melt any girl's heart.
"I did Princess Sara," He said, turning back to the Waitress serving drinks and asked for another of the drinks he ordered for her. "Did you enjoy yourself too? The food was great, especially the steak and ribs. The food was melt in your mouth. I'm going to have to compliment those two chefs." He then took the cup offered to him by the Waitress and handed it to Sara.
Sara rose her brows at the offered drink but took it, "What is it?" She asked, taking a tentative sip, tasting the flavor of strawberries, watermelon, and kiwis. It really was good.
"It's a virgin Jamaican punch," Brody explained, taking a drink from his own cup. The King and Queen smartly decided that they would not allow alcohol to be served here."
"It's good," Sara said drinking again, she looked over at Brody and blushed when she saw that he was looking at her with his sea-green eyes. They were such an intense shade of green that she couldn't help but blush. "You're a skier, right?"
Brody nodded and Sara did not miss the pride in his eyes, "I'm the best skier in all of Illéa for my age group. Honestly, I'm always practicing to make myself better. It's really weird that I haven't been able to practice."
"So, you're passionate, that's a good thing," Sara noted, taking in his features, sandy blonde hair, sea-green eyes, and a muscular fair build. "Is it hard to ski?"
Brody thought about it, "It might be if you have a really bad sense of balance since your feet are literally strapped to the boards. You also have to like the thrill of falling down, because you're sliding down a mountain. Sometimes it's hard to control how fast you go and sometimes you can't stir properly, but I love it." There was so much passion in his eyes that it left Sara speechless.
"Maybe I should try skiing if you think it's a good sport." Sara joked and Brody gave her a look like she was crazy, but at the same time like he liked her sense of adventure.
Brody shook his head, "If you want to, I can teach you," He grinned, "I mean if your Dad lets you. As I said, it's kinda dangerous to do."
"I'll take my chances," Sara smiled back, blushing at the intensity of his eyes. His eyes were pretty. She really could keep looking into them and she liked his sense of confidence and passion. It was refreshing after talking to guys who were all shy. "Your parents must be proud of you."
Brody's grin faltered at that, "Well, the thing is that I'm so focused on my training that I always forget to spend time with friends and family. I tell myself that I shouldn't, but then I get so absorbed in training that I can't pull myself away. It's something I have to work on. I know that."
"I can't say I know the feeling," Sara confessed, "I mean there are charities that I help out, and fundraisers I plan but I always have some free time on my hands, unlike my Dad or Payton. Those two would know more about getting absorbed in work and not seeing family." It was actually something she had hated when she was younger before she knew what being a Ruler really meant. Now she did and she saw how much her Dad gave to Illéa. She also saw how hard Payton worked and she knew he'd be a wonderful King when it was his time.
Sara talked to Brody until she finished her drink and then parted ways with him, a warm glowing feeling in her chest. She had really enjoyed her talk with Brody and she thought that she liked him. Now, she just hoped that she could connect well with some of the other guys as well.
Payton POV
Payton leaned against the counter that Ebony and Alyssa were relaxing at, both looked exhausted, their hair a mess, but there was clearly pleased look on their faces that Payton thought made both extremely pretty.
"Good job girls," He said, grinning at both of them and Alyssa blushed softly, her pretty blue eyes going down to the counter before looking back up at him. "You must be exhausted."
"It was worth it," Ebony smiled her dark brown eyes, glowing and it was clear that she was pleased with herself. "Did you like it?"
"It was the best food I've ever eaten," Payton reassured them both, "And I thought that the palace had some of the best chefs in the country. What did each of you guys make?"
Alyssa grinned happily at his words, "Well, I really focused on the steak, pasta and I did the honey glazed chicken."
"The vegetable medley was also your recipe." Ebony reminded her, "I did the ribs and pork and the Brazilian soup. I also did chili. Dessert isn't even out yet. We stayed simple with that though."
Alyssa nodded, readjusting the chestnut bun on her head, her blue eyes glowing. "We made a raspberry and chocolate cake, a hazelnut coffee cake, lemon-blueberry cake, and strawberry vanilla cake."
"I can't wait to taste," Payton said. He looked at the two girls in front of him and he really was happy that they were in his Selection. There was a maturity about Alyssa that he really liked and he knew from his date with Ebony that she was an extremely hard-working girl who had certain goals in mind.
"It's kinda weird though, we weren't planning to cater to all these people," Alyssa mused. "I can say without a doubt that I've never cooked for so many people."
"Since I work in the hotel, I've definitely had to pull my weight." Ebony said, "But Alyssa's right, we weren't planning to invite everyone."
"I was planning to ask about that actually," Payton said, "Did you not invite all the girls to attend?" When he brought it up in front of them during the break at the Report last night, a good number of girls had looked offended or disappointed that they hadn't been invited.
"Of course not," Alyssa said like he was crazy. "We never wanted to make a big deal out of our pajama party. It was only supposed to be eleven of us. We just wanted to chill together after the Report, that's all."
"We didn't invite everyone because we aren't close to the other girls. I think it's amazing that we have nine other girls that we feel comfortable with. I mean there's twenty-six of us girls and twenty-something guys and let's be honest. We don't see the guys unless it's mealtime mostly or breaks for lessons."
"Oh," Payton blinked, he had automatically assumed that all the girls were going to be a part of the pajama party when Eirelyn told him about it. He guessed he was wrong. "Well, they all wanted to come, the guys too."
Ebony laughed at that and Alyssa gave him a look that said that she pitied him. "Would you like my opinion, Payton?" Alyssa asked sweetly.
"Since you're both looking at me like am an idiot, then yes, I would love to know what you think," Payton said, confusion clear in his voice.
"Those fifteen girls we didn't invite have their own groups. We never even really talked to some of them in the past week. Honestly, I don't think they would have cared if they weren't invited. It's just because you said that you'd be at the pajama party that they wanted to come." Alyssa explained. "But I can't say about the guys, but guys do love food…"
Ebony looked at him, "You said Eirelyn told you about the pajama party, why were you even talking about it?"
Payton felt sheepish then, "Well she only told me because she was canceling a date we were supposed to have after the Report."
Alyssa's eyes widened and he thought he saw some hurt in her eyes and he immediately felt guilty. He hadn't gone on a date with Alyssa yet and here she was hearing about how he had invited Eirelyn on a second date. But the hurt faded as she realized what he said. "Wait, she chose us over you?"
"When you put it that way…." Now Payton was the one who felt a bit put-out. Yes, last night ended with him kissing Eirelyn, but she hadn't thought about the fact that she chose her friends over him.
Ebony laughed lightly. "Stop pouting you two, tonight ended up really well if I have to say." She glanced around at all the other people in the dining hall, "And even though we had to cook for more people, I think it's better. We should have invited everyone in the first place."
"Probably," Alyssa said, she glanced at Payton and he gave her a small smile, wanting to make up for upsetting her. "We should see if the cakes are ready to bring out. I think everyone is almost done with dinner."
Ebony nodded but before Alyssa could leave the counter, Payton called after her, a sheepish look on his face. "Would you like to grab breakfast with me on Monday?"
Alyssa beamed, but she seemed hesitant, "I don't know. You don't have to go on a date with me if you don't want to."
"That's not it at all," Payton said eagerly, "I want to go out with you. I enjoyed talking with you at the meet and greet. And I also know I'm an idiot for not asking you sooner. So, do you accept….?" Payton gave her his best grin and puppy-dog eyes. Not becoming of a King, he knew, but he thought it was his best bet.
Alyssa laughed, "Okay, I'll go on a date with you." She smiled at him, a blush on her cheeks and her blue eyes glowing. Try the hazelnut and coffee cake. Or the lemon-blueberry if you don't like chocolate."
"Are those your recipes?" Payton asked, meeting her blue eyes, "Of course I'll try them. I'll try the ones from Ebony too. I can't wait to eat it."
"Good, don't forget to tell me what you think," Alyssa said, giving him a mock stern look before hurrying to go back into the kitchen.
Payton chuckled, his light hazel eyes landing on Eirelyn who was talking happily with her brother, Asteria, Raleigh, Liam and Clay. He was about to go over and join them when a voice surprised him.
He turned to see Lady Alexandra standing behind him dressed in a silky nightdress that flowed straight over her body and a robe tied neatly over her body. Her pale blonde hair was pulled into a loose braid over her shoulder and her dark eyes gleamed.
"Lady Alexandra," Payton smiled, he had liked talking go her at the meet and greet too. "How did you like the pajama party?"
"It's good," Alexandra said, studying him with clear dark eyes. "How have you been? I feel like I haven't really seen you around." She said, giving him, a slightly pouty look and he felt a blush spread across his cheeks. "I wish I could see more of you," She said smoothly, giving him a smile.
"I wish I could see more of you too, Lady Alexandra," Payton smiled, looking down at her. She was one of the few girls who had chosen to wear an actual nightdress to dinner and while she looked nice in it, Payton really wished she had chosen to wear something else. He didn't know if she meant it to happen but he could see glimpses of her skin and he had to make sure to keep his eyes higher than her chest.
As he spoke, he thought about his schedule for the next coming week and gave her a small smile. "Are you free on Tuesday for some tea and snacks around ten?" He asked it was the earliest day that he had free at the moment. He had budget reports to catch up on and a few conferences he had to do on Sunday. He was also meeting with Franklin about the sustainable housing project he was trying to form together. So, he had no time for dates on Sunday. Monday was now full with Alyssa taking up the breakfast spot so Tuesday was the earliest day.
He saw Alexandra's face drop a bit but there was nothing he could do. All his free time for dates was taken up on Monday. Eventually, she nodded.
"I guess I can live with that," Alexandra said, giving him a small smile, "At least I get to see you today. Did you enjoy this pajama party?"
"Yup," Payton said, "This gives me more time to talk to you girls." He grinned at her, "I enjoyed getting to taste Ebony and Alyssa's food. But tell me, how has the palace been? Do you need anything else?"
"Well, my maids have been pretty good, they get me everything I need," Alexandra said thinking. "They even got me a small easel and painting kit that I can do if I don't want to be in the Women's room."
"That's right," Payton looked at her with interest, another artist, there seemed to be so many in his Selection. "What do you paint?"
Alexandra blushed, "Well I tried to paint the sunset a few nights ago and I painted my cat Jellybean, I miss him so much?"
Payton rose a brow at the name she gave her cat, he couldn't help laughing. "Did you just say that your cat's name is Jellybean?" He asked, his grin widening.
"Yeah, why?" Alexandra asked, clearly curious about his reaction. "What's so funny? My cat is a bit overweight and looks like a jellybean."
Payton shook his head, "Nothing, it's just Liam has a nickname for Julia. It's Jelly Bee. It's just really similar."
Alexandra laughed a bit too, "That's so cute. Do you also call Julia Jelly Bee?" She asked giving him a small smile.
Payton shook his head, "No I don't and you better not either. Only Liam is able to call her Jelly Bee. Well Liam and Evelyn, but I'm sure that it's only because she's dating Liam."
Alexandra nodded, "It's still a cute nickname." She said.
"The very best one," Payton agreed, "Do you think you can show me some of your paintings on Tuesday too?"
Alexandra nodded enthusiastically. "Of course, and if you want, I can even show you how to paint!" She looked excited on the thought and Payton nodded.
"Maybe not all in one day, but I would love to learn how to paint from you." He said. "Now if you'll excuse me." He took her hand and kissed her knuckles, watching as a blush spread across her cheeks as a large smile graced her features. "I better be going." He gave her a parting wink before he started to make his way towards the group he had been trying to head to before.
He was glad that they were all still there. After all, he needed to gain the approval of someone important and there was no reason why he couldn't start now.
Eirelyn POV
Eirelyn laughed at the face that Clay made, he had crossed his bright blue eyes while puffing out his face like a puffer-fish, causing his entire face to turn completely red in the next few seconds.
"What kind of face is that?" Raleigh giggled, she was settled in one of the beanbag chairs and Liam was sitting next to her, a smirk on his face.
"It's the face our tutor had!" Clay exclaimed, looking towards Liam for back-up. "Don't you remember? Mr. Shelton."
"Oh," Liam's smirk turned into a grin. "Yeah, a remember, he had the fattest face I ever saw and his cheeks were always red. He was sweaty too. Do you remember when I replaced all his crayons with candy crayons?" He laughed. "He completely freaked out."
Clay laughed, throwing his head back and Eirelyn thought that he had a really nice laugh, deep and in his chest. "Only because you took a bite out of one before he knew that they were candy."
"Yeah," Liam sighed, clearly remembering it, "He was brilliant though, a great teacher."
Eirelyn looked at Payton's younger brother with raised eyebrows. "Really? After telling us of all the pranks you pulled on him, you're going to call him a great teacher?"
"He's great because he was fun to mess with." Clay grinned, he scooted closer to her, leaning against her beanbag chair and causing it to lean towards him. "Do you have any great stories? Maybe out your brother? He refuses to tell me anything." He looked eagerly at Eirelyn and she grinned before casting Lyndon an amused look, causing him to pale slightly.
She then looked back at Clay and found his face closer than before, an eager look in his bright blue eyes. "I-I don't think I should tell you," She said blushing at his closeness. "I mean he's my twin, he has the same number of embarrassing stories about me that I do about him."
Now it was Lyndon's turn to laugh and he grinned triumphantly, "You know she's right," He was leaning back in an actual chair, arms crossed in front of his chest.
Eirelyn was really glad that Lyndon was here. It felt so much better, with her twin in the same place. He was her rock really and it would be nice to have someone to talk to besides Asteria at the palace. As much as she loved her new friends, they weren't exactly close yet and she really wondered if they ever would be since they were all competing for the same boy.
It was also nice to see that Lyndon was adapting to the palace so quickly, he already seemed to have a close friendship with Clay despite just getting there yesterday. Eirelyn also noticed that he was getting on with Liam pretty well and Raleigh too.
"Hey Eirey, if you won't tell us about your brother, then tell us this," Clay said, catching her attention again, it seemed like he wasn't done pestering her. She turned to look at him and he had a smile on his face that she really didn't like.
"What?" Eirelyn asked, feeling her guard go up.
"It's a simple question, what do you think of Payton?" Clay asked, leaning back and looking at her with curious blue eyes.
Eirelyn blushed and felt all set of eyes turn towards her. She looked to Asteria for help and she just shrugged, her sapphire blue eyes amused and Eirelyn glared at her so-called best friend. Way to leave her out on the dust. She then turned to Lyndon but he looked even more curious than the rest of them. And of course, Raleigh and Liam were both curious too, since Raleigh was another selected girl and Liam was Payton's brother.
"Didn't you pay any attention to the Report last night? I already said what I thought about Payton," Eirelyn said.
"And that was the truth?" Liam pushed, his dark eyes suddenly serious as he looked at her.
Eirelyn nodded, "I was telling the truth at the Report. Everything I said was true."
"What's true?" Eirelyn almost fell out of her beanbag chair at the voice behind her. She looked back and saw Payton standing behind her, a smirk on her lips.
"Nothing," Eirelyn said blushing, watching as Payton settled on the floor next to her. She took in his sweats and a plain t-shirt, "Enjoying being able to go around in your sweatpants?" She asked instead.
"Absolutely love it," Payton said back, he took her appearance in as well and Eirelyn blushed, wondering what he thought of her teal fluffy pajama pants with stars on it and a dark blue t-shirt that had a midnight sky on it. "You seem to like it too,"
Eirelyn shrugged, "I'll take anything over dresses." She said. "It's comfy, maybe you should try fluffy pants too."
Payton looked like he was about to respond but he didn't get a chance to because that's when someone uninvited butted into their circle of friends, completely flustering Payton by how she immediately grabbed his arm.
"There you are Payton," Rebecca Bennett said happily, clutching his arm like it was a lifeline. "I was trying to find you all night."
Eirelyn glared at the newcomer, feeling annoyance bubble in her. She'd never really gotten on with Rebecca and she didn't think that she ever would through the course of this Selection. It also didn't help that Rebecca probably wore the most revealing chemise in the room, clearly showing the top of her cleavage and her silky ivory white robe was loose around her shoulders. Was there no rule about how much a girl could show?
"What are you doing here Rebecca?" Asteria asked, glaring at the newcomer as well.
"What?" Rebecca asked, giving Asteria a hard look, "This is a pajama party, I can talk to whoever I want to." She hadn't changed her position, in fact, he was trying to tug Payton closer to her and away from Eirelyn. She looked completely pleased with herself.
Payton on the other hand, looked like he didn't know what to do. His face was completely red and he looked like he wanted to move away but didn't exactly have the will to.
"You can talk to anyone you want," Raleigh said, crossing her arms over her long black t-shirt which had a dancing ballerina on it, "But it's rude to just force your way into our conversation.
Now Rebecca turned a sickeningly sweet smile towards Raleigh who glared back, "Aren't we all friends here?"
"No, we're not," Asteria said. "Can't you tell that you're making Payton feel uncomfortable?"
It was true, Payton had gently pried his arm away from Rebecca by now but she still scooted as close to him as possible.
Rebecca sniffed, tossing her chocolate brown hair carelessly over her shoulder and even though Eirelyn felt her annoyance rise, she took a deep breath, trying to bury her emotions. "It doesn't matter guys. She's right that she can go anywhere she wants." The only one who could dismiss her was Payton, but it didn't look like he would.
"Thank you Eirey," Rebecca said, giving her a sweet smile and Eirelyn bristled at her nickname. "You really are a sweet girl." She then turned her attention to Lyndon who gulped slightly. "You're her brother, right?"
"Yes ma'am," Lyndon said and Eirelyn cursed him for being so polite, but it was how their Dad thought him to treat every girl. Be polite and hospitable. Never disrespect them. "You're Lady Rebecca correct?"
Rebecca grinned, "I am," Her eyes then went over to Liam who stiffened and Eirelyn swore that Raleigh stiffened too. She didn't say anything, but it was clear that Raleigh was not happy with Rebecca setting her sights on the younger Prince. "Good evening Prince Liam."
"You can just call me Liam," The dark-haired Prince said, blushing and clearly trying to keep his eyes off Rebecca's exposed skin. A good thing since he had a girlfriend already.
"What were you guys talking about?" Rebecca asked, glancing at all the guys and ignoring the girls. "Anything fun or have these other girls been boring for you?" Her voice was silky and smooth, with just the smallest of lilts. It was clear that she was trying to keep all the guys' attention and it was working; even though they weren't looking at her, it was clear that they were giving her their attention.
Eirelyn could feel her ire spike at the question but didn't say anything. Today had been going so well and she wouldn't let Rebecca of all people ruin it. But she could tell that it was getting to Asteria who was biting her lip and Raleigh didn't look happy either. None of them liked Rebecca, but Eirelyn didn't want to be goaded into getting into an argument with the other girl. It was clearly what Rebecca wanted. It had only been a week, but Eirelyn had noticed her way with words and the way she positioned herself in a room. She may not like Rebecca but the girl knew how to command a room and gain attention.
"Relationships," Clay finally said, freely letting his eyes roam over Rebecca's body even though Payton was just right there. Wasn't he concerned about the Selection rules? What if someone thought he was trying to get close to Rebecca? And what about relationships? Eirelyn was pretty sure that they hadn't been talking about relationships.
"What about relationships?" Rebecca asked curiously and Eirelyn did not like the way that Clay's eyes gleamed. "Like who we've dated?"
Clay nodded, "It's Lyndon's turn actually. So, Lyndon, any relationships?"
Lyndon blushed, but the reminder seemed to snap him back to his senses because he cleared his throat, "Yeah. I have a girlfriend back in Carolina, she's actually one of Eirey and Asteria's friends. Her name is Corrine Graham, she's a really sweet girl."
If anything, that brightened Asteria's spirits too because she laughed, "Tell them what Eirelyn did when she found out you guys were dating."
Eirelyn blinked, a light blush appearing on her cheeks. It really wasn't something she was proud of.
"What did you do?" Payton asked curiously, he was looking at her and thankfully, his face had gone back to its normal shade.
"I…. may not have talked to her for seven weeks," Eirelyn said after a moment of debate. Corrine's my childhood friend and I always thought my brother off-limits for Asteria and Corrine. So when they started dating…"
"You wouldn't believe that they were friends ever since they were five," Lyndon grinned, looking over at her, a fond but annoyed look on his face.
"Wait, you completely shut out one of your friends because she's dating your brother?" Payton asked dumbfounded, he quickly turned to Lyndon who was looking back at him. "What about you?"
"How do I treat guys who date my twin sister?" Lyndon asked and Eirelyn swore that there was a threatening undertone to his voice. Payton must have heard it too because he paled a bit. "The last guy she dated… well, I punched him in the face. He sported a pretty bad black eye for a few weeks."
Eirelyn felt a shot of pain go through her heart at the reminder of James, but she did remember that day. Lyndon had punched James so hard that he had been knocked unconscious. But was that a threat? She quickly looked at Lyndon, but he was looking at Payton and Eirelyn desperately hoped he realized he couldn't punch the Crown Prince in the face.
Eirelyn looked at the others in the group and Liam had a cautious look on his face. "What about guys who broke Eirelyn's heart?" He asked.
Lyndon shrugged, "No guy has ever broken Eirelyn's heart. They never got the chance to. But if they did…. I don't know what I'd do. It's better to not break her heart."
Eirelyn saw Payton nod frantically, it was clear that he got Lyndon's message and Eirelyn wanted to smack Lyndon on the back of his head. He couldn't subtly threaten a Prince!
Clay laughed, clearly enjoying the situation he created, "What about you Liam? We all know you have a girlfriend."
Much to Eirelyn's surprise, Liam hesitated before nodding. "Of course. The girls have seen her in the Women's room and have talked to her. Evelyn's a British Princess after all." His words were half-hearted and that surprised her. Weren't the two of them engaged?
She noticed that both Payton and Clay looked surprised by Liam's tone too so Clay quickly continued, turning his attention towards Rebecca who met his eyes in a daring way. "Well, what about you Lady Rebecca? Any past relationships you want to share?"
"I don't date," Rebecca said sounding superior. "There's no one who interests me. Besides, there's no one suitable in my hometown that can date me."
"Is that because you think that you're better than them?" Clay asked, a hard edge to his voice.
Rebecca looked at him head-on, frowning, "What do you mean?"
"Well, I mean, you are a six, aren't you? A six with a two's education," He challenged, "Don't you think that you may be grasping at straws here? I mean, what's your definition of suitable?"
Eirelyn saw Rebecca bristle at Clay's question and even Eirelyn was surprised. Clay seemed to have suddenly turned hostile for no reason. But both Liam and Payton didn't say anything and there was a look of understanding on their faces. Shouldn't they stop their friend before he went too far?
"A suitable person for me is someone who has a higher education and isn't covered in grime. I'm not ashamed of admitting that. I want to be able to live a life where I don't have to worry if we have enough money for food and electricity. Isn't that what everyone wants. No six can offer me that. The only option is to marry higher." Rebecca said and as much as Eirelyn didn't like Rebecca, it sounded like a good argument to her.
No one wanted to be hungry and wonder where their next check would come from. Rebecca may have a twos education but surely, she had to wonder about those things too. Especially since it couldn't have been cheap for a six to pay for a two's education.
"So, what relationship goals do you have? A three? A two?" Clay asked, "Would you take a guy that's rich but has a horrible personality over someone who's in a lower caste and cares about you?"
"What's it to you?" Rebecca asked, "Is it so bad to wish for a better future? Especially when it can help my family?"
"Of course not," Clay shook his head, "But I've been following the Selection even before I came back to the palace. You're the six who has the education of a two and dresses like a two. I've also seen you interact with the sixes in the palace and you treat them like they're lower than you, even though you're a born six too. Shouldn't you be more sympathetic? It's as if you've forgotten your place. You think you're a two so you won't date a six because you think you're better than them. On the other hand, no two or three will start a relationship with you because, despite your education, you're still a six. You're stuck."
There was a deafening silence in the group and Eirelyn exchanged looks with Asteria and Raleigh before looking at her brother. He also looked surprised by Clay's outburst. And while both Payton and Liam didn't look happy about how Clay was treating one of the selected, neither said anything. Both were looking at Clay as if he were a wild animal.
And Rebecca? Well, Rebecca looked piss off. She looked like she was about to explode. Eirelyn thought Rebecca was about to scream at Clay, but instead, she stood up, limbs shaking with her suppressed anger and stormed away.
There was a long pause of silence before Payton finally broke it, sighing. "Dude, what the hell was that about?"
"I can't stand people like her," Clay said darkly. "I don't care that she's one of your selected Payton, I had to get that off my chest. I wasn't kidding, she thinks that she's above a six because she's more educated. She's lucky to have been able to have that, she should be humble not treating others badly. You know my parent's situation Payton, I've always hated how others treated them because they chose to love each other and break the rules. But to find a six who treats other sixes horribly? I can't stand that. I've seen her do it. You should eliminate her."
Payton shook his head, "I can't eliminate her based on what you think Clay. Sorry. I barely know her, I haven't even gone a date with Rebecca yet. I have to give her a chance."
Clay took a deep breath, before giving them all a smile but it was clearly forced. "Right, right, sorry. I just had to say what was on my mind. Especially after seeing her grope you like that." Clay pushed himself up to his feet, his hands stuffed into his pockets. "I think I'm going to turn in for the night." He left without another word.
Lyndon watched Clay leave and soon he was on his feet too. "I should turn in for the night too." He gave her a smile and she smiled back, rising to her feet to hug him tightly. "Hopefully I'll see you tomorrow."
"You will," Eirelyn promised, taking in his warmth as he hugged her. She glared at him when he ruffled her hair, but he just grinned before bowing to Payton and Liam and then he was off, clearly trying to catch up to Clay.
"Well, I'm leaving too, I promised Evelyn I would tell her how the party went," Liam said, pushing himself to his feet. He gave the girls a quick bow and patted his brother on the back before leaving.
Payton watched him leave before turning to the three girls who remained. There was still some leftover tension in the air and he gave them an uneasy smile. "Interesting night Ladies?"
"You have no idea," Eirelyn sighed, this was not how she thought the night would go. It had started out great and by the combined efforts of Rebecca and Clay, it had become extremely awkward and honestly, she didn't want to feel the remaining tensions that the two had left in the air. "I think I'm going to turn into bed too." She tried to stand up but she stumbled and fell back into the cushion, as she tried to pull herself out of the beanbag chair. It seemed to have sucked her in deeply over time.
Payton chuckled and offered her his hand, pulling her up effortlessly. "Did you have fun until Clay went off at least?" He asked, not letting her go even though she was steady on her feet.
"I had fun until Rebecca appeared," Eirelyn said, remembering how her chest had practically mashed against Payton's arm. "Clay going off was just out of nowhere."
Payton ran a hand through his hair, "Well actually, Clay has always hated people who treat the lower caste horribly. He especially hates people of the same caste treating others like they're dirt. And… Clay's sister is actually one of Rebecca's maids and Rebecca made her cry today."
"So, Clay's family are actually sixes?" Eirelyn asked curiously.
Payton nodded. "Clay's a two since he's in the military and Franklin was lucky enough to catch the attention of a kind architect with no caste bias to teach him. But the rest of the family are sixes. He's extremely protective of them and has a firm stand on his beliefs if you didn't notice."
"He just cares about his family," Eirelyn said, pulling away from Payton. "I'll see you guys tomorrow." She said to Raleigh and Asteria.
"See you," Raleigh said but she sounded distracted and Asteria gave her a large hug almost crushing her. Payton also kissed her knuckles while discretely winking at her and Eirelyn gave him a warm smile in turn before she left.
As she walked through the halls Eirelyn's mind was full of thoughts. She had learned a lot today about the girls in her selection and she kept repeating Clay and Rebecca's discussion and she couldn't really fault either side.
Of course, Clay didn't like people who looked down on lower caste because of his family, so he'd be protective. And of course, she believed that people shouldn't be treated badly just because of their caste. But on the other hand, she saw where Rebecca was coming from, even if she was a self-absorbed brat. Of course, girls wanted to aim higher and because of Rebecca's background, she probably believed she deserved to be married to a two or even Payton for a better life? Who didn't want a better life? Her Mom had been a five before King Maxon's Selection and from the stories she heard, even her Mom's family had struggled. Things were never as black and white as they seemed.
Rebecca POV
Rebecca stormed through the halls of the palace, rage emanating through her every step. Who did that blonde guy think he was? Didn't he realize that she wasn't a six anymore?! She was a three and would eventually be his Queen! She'd have him flogged once she was Queen!
And not only that, but he had ruined her time with Payton! He made her look horrible in front of the Prince and that was something that she would never forget! He humiliated her!
She wouldn't allow it. Not after everything she went through. Not after everything her family had paid for so that she could rise to the top. She'd get the crown and no one would remember that she was a six after that. They wouldn't even think to mention it.
If anyone had forgotten their place it was that blonde! Wasn't he just a palace guard? Who did he think he was?!
Rebecca was so angry that she didn't even realize that she had completely missed the selected wing and was going through a part of the palace that she didn't know about.
Finally, when it seemed like it was taking way too long for Rebecca to get back to her room she looked up and found that she was in a part of the palace that she didn't recognize. Where was she? She looked around and saw that this wing looked clean, and there were many doors along the hallway, but there was no one around. She was about to turn around but stopped dead when she saw the blonde, she had argued with making his way towards her, head down and shoulders stiff.
"What? Come for round two?!" She demanded, her anger rising again at seeing him. Was he following her? What was his name anyway? Clark? Cole?
The blonde's head shot up and his bright blue eyes widened when he saw her. The frown on his face showed how happy he was to see her. Not at all. "What are you doing here?" He asked voice guarded.
"I should be asking you that Clark," Rebecca said putting her hands on her hips.
"My name is Cole and this is the guard wing of the palace." He said.
Rebecca felt her eyes widen and hated it when Clay smirked. "What? Did the wanna-be Princess get lost?"
"Stop talking to me like that! Why do you think you can treat me the way you are?!" Rebecca demanded, feeling her anger rise when he turned and started walking away from her. She followed so that she could yell at him. "Hey! Don't walk away from me!"
"It's like I said before, it's like you've forgotten your place because of every single thing that you were given." Clay said, he didn't stop walking and he didn't turn to face her, making her continue to chase after him.
"My parents made sure I had a good education. I can't help the fact that other parents didn't do that." Rebecca huffed, where was he going anyways?
"Because they wanted to make sure that the little money, they did make went to feeding their kids. How horrible of them." Clay said dryly and Rebecca could practically feel him roll his eyes.
"I had enough to eat," Rebecca said, "Even when my parents were paying for my school."
Clay glanced at her, brows furrowed, "Then I guess you're really one of the fortunate sixes in this country. It still doesn't mean you can mistreat other sixes. And my point still stands with relationships. You think you're too good to date a six, but on the other hand twos and threes, they're too good to date you. Ironic don't you think?"
"Why does it bother you so much?" Rebecca asked, why was she still following him? "And where are you going?"
Clay suddenly stopped, shocking Rebecca and she didn't stop soon enough, causing her to run into his back.
"We're in the selected wing," Clay said neutrally. "This is where you were trying to go right?"
Rebecca looked around in surprise and saw that he was right. He had brought her back to the selected wing without her even realizing it. "I'm not going to thank you," She said. "And you didn't answer my question. Why does it bother you so much that I've forgotten my place? You're a two if you're in the military.
Clay nodded, "I am. But I was a six beforehand and my parents were eights for a bit. The only reason they're sixes now is because King Maxon knew them and allowed them to stay in the palace. My parents faced hardships that you can't even imagine. I see eights still disrespect them to this day. I also see sevens and other sixes treat them like they're nothing but dirt but they're still kind, and their only crime was loving each other. Despite their hardships, they're always so kind and help others before themselves so, when I see how you treat others of lower caste and how you act… it sickens me," He then started to walk back towards his own wing, leaving Rebecca gaping at him.
"You never answered my question about who you were!" Rebecca called angrily after him, but she noted that her anger had lessened quite a bit.
Clay didn't stop walking and Rebecca was sure he wasn't going to answer her but before he turned the corner and disappeared, he called over his shoulder, just loud enough for her to hear. "My name is Clayton. Clayton Woodwork."
Surprised about Maxon's POV?
Sorry guys! You can't read America's letter to Maxon quite yet!
What did you think about the reveal? Did you guys realize that Clay and Anderson were Woodworks?
Remember to review! I love all the feedback I get, both negative and positive! It helps make the story better!
Next Chapter: Chapter 26: Rebel Rising