America & Me..

Chapter 6

I jumped out of bed and went about with my day. I first went to my father's office to get my paperwork. I sat down at my desk and busied myself with budget rules. I had to approve/disapprove them, and father would read them again, to make sure it was what he would do.

I was halfway done, when there was a knock on the door. I got up and swung it open.

"Hi honey, I haven't seen you since this morning." My mother said, I smiled at her and ushered her inside.

"I thought I'd work today. You know, the budget rules and everything."

"Of course. How is the Selection going? Have you gotten to know a few of your options?"

"Yeah, it's... taking a while, but it's progressing. Much better than I expected." I reply, smiling.

My mother's face suddenly lights up. "Who is that? The one who shouted at you when you first met her?"

"What?"

"Oh you talked about her during the report, remember?" Oh, right.

"Mom..." I say, smiling playfully.

"Spill!" She says, smiling back.

"Alright. You know that girl? The redhead?" My mother nods, so I continue. "Redheads normally have a temper, and oh! God! Does she have one!" I say, shaking my head.

"So she was the one?" My mother asked, she seemed very amused.

"Yes, she was the one. But I didn't mind, really." I reply. She smiles.

"I wonder... If this was your father's Selection, she'd be back home by now."

"I cannot imagine father keeping someone in the castle after such a first impression." I say, and we both laugh.

"So, honey, tell me about your favorites so far."

"Uhhh... I don't really have one. I've only had three dates so far." My mother's eyes widen.

"Only three? Why, the selection started 3 weeks ago! You should have had at least 10."

"Oh, mother, do you really think I have that much time to spare?"

"Well, you have to make time. And don't forget. You have to give time to each lady before the next report, which is on Friday. 15 days from now."

"What?! I have to date 24 women in 15 days?" I asked incredulously.

She waved a dismissive arm. "If you feel like you don't want 24 women, narrow them down. But you have to date everyone you keep. They have to have something to say during the report."

I sighed, unable to understand how I was supposed to date so many women.

Another knock. This time, I frown. I walk to the door and swing it open again. This time, there is a guard. "Your Majesty, I have some bad news"

Oh no, another rebel attack?

"Go on." I say, trying to keep my face neutral.

"Sir, one of the Selected. Lady Anna Farmer." He paused briefly, while I tried to remember who that was. "She physically hurt Lady Celeste. According to the rules, she must be sent back home, Sir. I just came here to confirm that from you."

"What?! Why would she do that?" That wasn't a question for the guard, but to myself. I look at mom, who looks saddened. She sighs and says "Rules are rules, Maxon."

I sigh. "Alright, please make sure she is sent home. Safely. And, make sure that Lady Celeste is alright."

He nods, salutes and walks away.

I turn back and say "If these Ladies eliminate themselves, my options just get lesser and lesser. Why do I have to choose my wife this way?" I feel that uncertain feeling creep back into me. I eye her nervously.

She sighs as she replies "Honey, you need to calm down. Don't worry, it'll end fine." I nod, not convinced as she pats me on my shoulder, before walking out, leaving me in a daze.

I need to plan dates. I have 24, no, 23 ladies to take on dates. I have to start tomorrow.