Hi folks! So after countless PMs and hours to think this chapter through, I have finally decided that although America was more connected to Aspen, Maxon's POV would be better for this chapter. I feel like America would be so torn up inside that she wouldn't be able to think. I mean, that's how I am when people I love die. I don't know about you. *shrugs*. America's POV won't help us understand whats going on around the palace. Maxon's, however, will show us exactly what we need to see...
By the way, thanks for all of the help Basedonthosebooks! You rock! All of those amazing ideas you had will be in the next chapter. :)

All rights to Kiera Cass. I did not write the Selection Trilogy!

Chapter Five

(Maxon's POV)

I toss and turn in my bed. Nothing can help me sleep after seeing America. After she woke up from her coma, I felt so elated, I could barely move. Then she spoke to me, and I was jumping with joy inside. Everything was well again. And the kiss! I swear I have never felt that way kissing anyone else in this competition. It feels remarkable to know that I love America as much as I do; to know that she loves me back.

Although these great things happened, the last part of our conversation eats away inside of me. Her screams, the look on her face, the way she shook when she recounted her terrifying memory of watching the guard die. She knew him from back home. She probably saw him all the time. The sadness in her eyes told me as much. I was so worried about her. She looked like she was about to break. She looked the way I think I would have if I saw her die. I feel awful knowing she is in so much pain, but her request is impossible. Every guard in the Palace knows the responsibilities that they have when it comes to protecting the palace. They all know that if they die, they die for Illea.

I remember reading the declaration that all of our soldiers had to sign.

'The duties of a soldier run far from just defending this country. The duty of a soldier is to protect and serve Illea, no matter what the outcome may be.'

Officer Leger fought and protected all of us. He saved America, and for that, I owe him more than I can ever offer. But I can't offer anything to the dead, I think to myself, trying to form a plan to make things right again.

Finally, as the clock is about to hit two, I have an idea. The only way to make things seem final when it comes to grievances is to have a funeral.

With that thought in mind, I fall into a peaceful sleep.

I wake up with the sun shining in my eyes. Right away, I get on a suit and tie and rush for the hospital wing. If the doctor gave the okay, America would be released today.

Walking swiftly down the hallway, I see maids rushing up and down the stairs. I stop one of them- Lucy, I believe.

"Excuse me," I say to her, watching as she giggles and curtsies, "may I ask what you are doing? I've seen about every maid in the palace going up and down those stairs." I ask amused.

She starts to shake, and I know that she is trying hard not to burst out laughing.

"Well-your majesty-the, the maids, well, we all just love America so much. We thought she would love it if she returned to a clean room, and we have even set up a surprise for her, too." she replies, barely holding in her laughter.

I smile at what she says. It makes me happy knowing that the maids enjoy having America here. Hopefully this fact will help me when I go back to my father's office tonight.

"Well, don't stand around then," I say smiling brightly her way, "and tell me when you are ready for her." I add, knowing that this might take a while and not wanting to ruin the surprise being planned.

"Yes, your majesty." she replies, before leaving in a fit of giggles.

I watch her leave and continue walking. Although the maids are planning a surprise for her, I know that America isn't in the mood for one. The only way this can work is if I tell her my news first.

We spend an hour or so talking, and of course, kissing while the doctor checks on her vitals and fills out the discharge slip. When he finally comes up to us, he tells us that she seems healthy, and that she can leave as soon as she wants. As soon as he moves on to his next patient, I get up and offer her my arm.

"My lady," I say, acting as proper as possible. She laughs and hooks her arm through mine. Slowly we walk out of the hospital wing and in to the gardens. When we reach our bench, a confused look appears on her face. "I didn't want anyone else to hear what I am about to say," I explain, my eyes never leaving hers. I can tell that she knows what I am about to say is serious, because she sits down next to me.

"America, after what happened yesterday; watching you hurt and cry over your friend, I couldn't shake the feeling that I needed to do something. That if I didn't help you, I would break just like you are breaking now." I say, looking down at our entwined hands. "I cannot tell you how sorry I am that you had to watch something that horrible happen, so I've decided that you and I need closure. Officer Leger's funeral is tonight," she gasps, tears forming in her eyes, " and want us to go."

She stares at the ground for a second before looking back up at me. "Thank you." she says, and I can truly tell how grateful she is.

I know promised some of you that this would be the chapter with Aspen's funeral in it, but after writing the first couple of paragraphs, I knew that it couldn't be. I mean come on. Do you really think that America is going to get over Aspen's death that easily? Anyways, the next chapter will most-likely be the funeral. It will also be in America's POV. Review, favorite, PM, follow, etc. if you have enjoyed the past few chapters, or if you want to give me a shout out. I'm always open for some suggestions, and I love constructive criticism, so if you have anything you need to get off you chest, PM me. I always answer back. Love you, amazing readers!

- Property of Illea