Hi guys! Next chapter will be on Aspen, don't worry. Do you think I should do different points of view, like Maxon and the Queen? Or should I stick with America? Comment what you think!
I am awakened by my maids coming into my room. "Rise and shine, Lady America! You've got a big day ahead of you." Mary exclaims, while Lucy and Anne prepare my bath. For a moment I don't remember what she means, but then it hits me. The Report! I can't do this! Apparently Mary sees me freaking out, because she calmly says "Don't worry, Lady America, you'll do just fine." How can I do just fine when the whole country wants me to fail? Especially the king himself?! My only comfort is the queen's words and Maxon. You're doing this for Maxon I remind myself. I get up and walk to the bathroom with new determination. I will do this.
My maids dress me in a floor length, elegant emerald green gown, which brings out my eyes. It makes me look innocent, yet sophisticated. My hair is down, fiery red waves framing my face. It is the perfect look. I thank my maids, wondering how they do it.
On my way downstairs, I see Aspen standing guard. I try to make eye contact with him, hoping he will understand my choice, but he just stonily glares at a wall. I don't dare talk to him now, not after what happened to Marlee. Maybe he will be guarding my door tonight. I can explain to him then.
Entering the dining hall, I see only Celeste, Kriss, and Elise. Where's the Royal Family? I must be early. I sit and start to eat. The food, as always is delicious, though I can't seem to eat much. I'm too nervous.
The door opens and in walks the king, queen, and Maxon. "Sorry we are late, ladies." Maxon greets us, yet gives no further explanation. Celeste gives him a flirtatious smile, and I notice with joy that Maxon just shakes his head at her actions. Kriss sits straight and tall, always the perfect example of a princess. Elise straightens when the Royal Family walks in, but doesn't really look at Maxon. I wonder why. Maybe she's mad at him.
The atmosphere in the room is tense, filled with worry and fear. I make idle chatter with Kriss and Elise occasionally, but other than that, breakfast is silent once again. Will we ever talk freely to each other? Not while this Selection is in place, that's for sure.
A half hour later, I am on the set of the Report. My palms and face are sweating, and I'm sure my makeup has melted off. It is about to start. I am going to fail. I am going to fail. I repeat this to myself several times until Maxon walks up behind me and whispers "You'll do great America. I believe in you," in my ear. How do I have such a great man in my life? Now I repeat to myself "You can do this. Maxon believes in you." until we are ushered to our seats beside Gavril. The cameras are turned on, and we are live.
Gavril starts by talking to Maxon. "So Prince Maxon, how's the Selection process going?" he asks. "Have any idea who our future princess will be?"
"I have an idea, Gavril, but it can not be confirmed yet." Maxon replies. The crowd oohs.
"I see. Can you give us a clue to who it might be?"
"She's beautiful, smart, and perfect for me. I don't know what I would do without her." Maxon says rather bashfully.
Kriss blushes, and Celeste smiles arrogantly. They are both sure he is talking about them. But Elise just looks at the camera sadly. Does she know Maxon does not like her, and she is only here for her New Asia ties?
"Well, Prince Maxon. All the ladies of the Elite fit into those categories. We can never guess who!" Gavril exclaims.
"I guess you'll just have to wait and see, Gavril." Maxon says cryptically.
"I guess so. Will you be making another elimination soon?" Gavril questions.
"Yes, after the Thanksgiving Feast." Maxon replies.
"Well, we can't wait. Thank you for speaking with me, Prince Maxon." Maxon smiles and says, "Any time Gavril."
Gavril continues. "Now, time to speak with the lovely ladies of the Elite!" The crowd bursts into applause. "Up first, Lady Celeste!"
Celeste waves at the camera and smiles. Gavril asks her questions and she replies back flirtatiously. Then it's Elise's turn. She is also asked questions, but she responds tiredly, almost looking depressed. Something is wrong. Kriss is up, and then it's me.
I take a deep breath and review my speech in my head. I got this. "Hello, Lady America," Gavril greets. "Hello Gavril," I reply pleasantly.
"How does it feel to be in the Elite? It must be hard, with so much competition and all." he asks.
"Actually Gavril, it's not that hard. I know that if I'm not chosen, then I am not fit to be princess. But if I am, I guess Prince Maxon thinks I am. I will just have to trust his judgement." At that, Maxon turns to look at me and offers a small smile. Trust. That is what I need to work on.
"Do you think you will be chosen, Lady America?" Gavril questions.
"I don't know who Prince Maxon will choose, but I think I have a chance." I answer.
"Do you hope you are chosen?" That's a tough one. I thought I knew the answer, but apparently I'm not sure. I want to be with Maxon, yet I don't want to be princess.
"Yes," I reply seriously. "I do."
"Well then, Lady America, good luck. Anything else you would like to say?"
"Yes Gavril." I turn towards the cameras. "I would like to take back what I said on the last Report." I look at Maxon for support, and he nods encouragingly. "I think the country could use some changes, but nothing as big as eliminating the caste system. As a whole, we are not ready for that. When I went on the Report, I was angry. Angry at the Selection, angry at Maxon, angry at pretty much everything." The crowd chuckles. "I acted out on that anger by making rash decisions and almost succeeding in ruining the country, and for that I am sorry. I will try to make better choices from now on, and think before I act. With the help of Prince Maxon, I believe I could be better informed, as I was not. This will not happen again. Please don't take what I said seriously, as I didn't mean it. Thank you," I conclude.
The crowd bursts into applause. I hope I was convincing enough. Gavril thanks me, and bids the audience and cameras farewell. We exit the set and head to our rooms.
I feel as if a 100 pound brick has been lifted off my back. I did it! Hopefully well enough to please the king.
Silvia walks into my room without knocking. "Hello Lady America! I have your assignment for the Thanksgiving Feast, which is on Thursday, November 28th. That is only a little more than a week away!" she exclaims.
"Not much time to prepare then, Silvia, is there." I reply.
"No, Lady America, not much time at all. Here is your assignment." She hands me a packet.
"Silvia, how did I do on the Report?" I ask.
"You did well, Lady America. Very convincing." she assures me.
I sigh with relief. "That is good."
"Lady America, the queen wants to talk to you tomorrow-same place as last time." Silvia whispers.
"Ok, I will be there." I whisper back.
"Well then, I will see you at lunch, Lady America." She says, a little louder. "Goodbye." Silvia walks out of the room and closes the door behind her. I look down at my packet to see my assignment. What will it be? At the top, in big letters, are the words "Thanksgiving Feast Food". Food. Of course they would give me the food to arrange. This will be interesting.
