Soooooo my secret santa gift is for @eadlynmydear!!!!! I am so sorry that this is really late, but here you go! I wrote a quick drabble about maxerica.
A Maxerica New Year
“America honey we are going to be late to the party...again,” Maxon whined to me. As if he expected me to be ready on time; I’m never on time for anything. But there he was, leaning against the side of the door with his clean cut suit, checking his watch every few minutes.
“Just a few more minute I promise!” I shouted through the bathroom door. I see him rolling his eyes through the cracked door.
“Alright,” I whipped open the door, “I’m ready to go!”
My maids did an amazing job picking out my dress for this evening. It’s a tight, long silver dress with an open back. A little scandalous for my taste, but I’m sure Maxon will love it.
“Wow,” he said as his starred at me, “You look gorgeous. Stunning. Amazing truly.”
I blushed. He gives me endless compliments daily, and I love it. No one has ever treated me this perfectly. Not even Aspen.
“Worth the wait?” I asked.
“Definitely,” he said as he held out his arm for me to take.
We walked down his hallway into the main ballroom.
“So who is going to be here tonight?” I asked.
“I believe the president of New Asia, the royals from the German Republic, and the Italians.”
I smiled. I finally get to see Nicoletta again. It has been forever.
“Wow that’s a lot of people,” I whispered. I was still getting used to this whole Queen thing. In fact, I was still having a lot of trouble presenting myself royally. Luckily, I have Maxon. He’s a perfect King. He’s just perfect.
“No need to worry,” he smiled, “When you look as beautiful as you do, you don’t need to do the talking.”
Before stopped before entering the ballroom. Mason pulled me to the side and looked me in the eyes.
“I still cannot believe how lucky I am to call you my wife,” he smiled, “I know this isn’t the New Years Eve you wanted, but the royals insisted on coming. If it were me, we would be upstairs just us two, laying in bed all night. I’m sorry I can’t give you that.”
He looked defeated.
I cupped his face in my hands and whispered, “What are you talking about? As long as I’m with you, I’m the happiest girl around.”
He smiled again. God I love his smile.
I kissed him slowly. This was going to be the perfect New Years. With Maxon, everything is perfect.
Hey Pumpkin! So, I remember reading somewhere a while ago that you're a Christian, then in the most recent issue I noticed the name of the hospital was Adventist. Maybe it's just a coincidence, but was wondering if you're actually Seventh Day Adventist? I am, and just thought it would be really cool and kind of a small world that someone's blog I love so much has a lot of the same beliefs I do! :) (You can answer privately if you feel more comfortable!)
Hello, love! You have such a good eye with noticing that name for the hospital!
Just like you read, I am a Christian but I identify as non-denominational.
I decided to leave the name in because I thought it was nice touch of realism and I always try to bring that when I can with this “world”.
It’s very cool to know another Christian on this site and that we both enjoy disney and crossovers! 💙
A/N: It’s ten o clock where I am, and I finally finished Holly’s last fic. This has been a really fun/crazy/dramatic experience, and I’m so glad Livi and Alex made it all possible! Thanks to @ladyalizemabo and @ashtonschreave for the rps, and enjoy Holly’s last submission :)
The final four. It’s finally here.
I was lying on my bed, eyes closed, simply resting for a little while after lunch. Just yesterday the Selected had been cut down to Alizé, Yanely, Piper and myself, sending Gracebella and Roxana home. Although Winter had been eliminated, what with her relationship reveal at the family ball, being with Cody had secured her place at the palace. What had shocked me the most was the fact that Gracebella was sent home, of all people. I wished her well though, hearing rumors that she hadn’t had the best past before coming to the palace. Every one of these girls deserved the best future they possibly could, Gracebella included.
Soon, Ashton would pick his wife and future queen after we each had one last date with him. I was nervous, of course, but also strangely calm. Like I was ready for whatever could happen.
“Holly?” a voice said, and I opened my eyes to see Elle standing above me, one of my dresses hanging over her arm. She smiled as I stared at her, honey brown eyes bemused.
“Everything alright?” she asked as I sat up, moving to sit cross-legged.
I nodded, still thoughtful. “Elle, can I ask you something about Nolan?” I asked, remembering her telling me and the rest of my maids the heartfelt story of how she had met her fiancé here in the palace.
“Anything,” she answered, setting my dress down near the edge of the bed. I motioned for her to sit, and she plopped herself down with ease, adjusting the black skirt of her maid’s uniform. Out of the three of my maids, she had become the closest with me, losing the stiff formality that we had when I first came to the palace. I was still good friends with Jenna and Sophia, but Elle and I had found a special friendship with one another.
“How did you first know that he loved you?” I asked, jumping straight to the point. She paused for a moment, looking pensive. I knew without a doubt that I loved Ashton, nothing had ever been clearer to me, but knowing if he loved me? I was clueless.
“Asking the easy questions,” she said with a laugh while I smiled.
She brushed a tendril of her pretty red hair away from her face as it fell out of her bun, looking at me thoughtfully. “Of course when he told me was a definite indicator, but I think I suspected long before he actually said the words.”
“How?” I asked, incredibly curious.
Her eyes seemed to wander for a moment, as if lost in a memory. “It was the way he looked at me as we passed each other in the halls, like I was the only thing that mattered. Or the way he took care of me after a hard work day, making me laugh even when I was exhausted. The little things,” she said with a fond smile. I nodded, somewhat expecting her answer, while I toyed with the ends of my hair.
She reached over and gently grabbed one of my hands, looking at me pointedly. “Holly, your situation is completely different. I never had to worry about Nolan picking between me and three other girls. I know you just want to know what Ashton wants, but at this point, I don’t think you can tell until he tells you for sure. Just… enjoy what’s left of the competition and your last date with him. Promise me you won’t stress about it?” she urged, giving my hand a squeeze.
I smiled at her imploring expression, laughing slightly. “I promise, Elle. And thank you,” I answered, truly meaning my words. If I spent the rest of my time holed up in my room wondering if he loved me, I would regret it later on.
She nodded her head once, smiling with satisfaction. “Good. Now why don’t you get out of this room and enjoy yourself,” she suggested, sliding off my bed.
“Alright, alright. I can tell when I’m not wanted,” I joked, laughing when I saw her roll her eyes.
She lightly slapped my shoulder as I hopped off my bed and slid past her, shaking her head with amusement. I slipped on my flats and straightened my dress, waving goodbye to Elle on my way out.
Once I was in the hallway, I didn’t really know where to go, so I walked aimlessly until I found myself in front of the Women’s Room. I decided to go in, thinking the brightness and comfort of the room would calm my anxious mind. Once I was inside I noticed Alizé sitting on a couch with her back turned towards me. I thought about letting her be, but in the end found myself approaching her.
I felt that I should continue our somewhat tentative friendship considering everything was so close to ending. A few times I had heard some girls talking about me saying that I was just too nice, as if I had some ulterior motives. It was something I heard often while growing up and it still bothered me.
You’re too nice, Holly. People will take advantage of you, Holly. You need to speak your mind more, Holly.
I had always been raised to treat others with kindness, even if I didn’t like them. I didn’t know how else to be with people other than genuinely kind. I knew this competition was hard enough, but how could I possibly be cruel to others no matter how I felt about Ashton? They deserved every bit of happiness they could get.
Although I knew I could share my opinions more, not let others believe that I was just the sweet girl someone could manipulate. I was more than what people thought, and I so desperately wanted others to see that. Maybe it was too late to show the girls here at the palace, but I wasn’t going to change who I was to make myself seem less suspicious, of all things.
Shaking my head at my wandering thoughts, I walked around the couch and sat down next to Alizé, noting her startled gaze as I interrupted whatever she was reading.
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt. I just thought I’d come over to talk for a bit,” I said, a bit sheepishly. But she smiled with warmth, waving her hand.
“No worries. So, what’s up?” she asked, setting her book aside.
I lifted a shoulder. “Nothing much. It’s so quiet around the palace now, huh?” I remarked, noting the palace seemed almost empty without so many girls or their families around.
“True, all the guests are gone, and only four of us left…” she trailed off, no doubt wondering how the end of the Selection would play out.
“I still can’t believe it. And the fact that it’s going to end so soon!” I exclaimed.
“It all went by so fast it seems impossible,” she added, just as surprised as me.
“I know. So,” I hesitated, not quite sure how I wanted to phrase the question, “How are you feeling about everything?” I asked.
She let out a breath before she answered. “I feel like it kind of overwhelmed me if I’m being honest. But as it all got quiet, and after talking to my family, I feel reassured about… well everything,” she confessed.
“I can understand that. I think I felt that way for a while, and even though I’m nervous for what’s going to happen, I feel weirdly calm at the same time,” I explained with a small laugh.
She nodded. “I get that. At the moment it feels less like a competition somehow, yet you still try interpreting every word he says. I’m sure he’s already chosen somehow, but honestly I’m so lost as to say how this will end.” She was completely right, none of us had an inkling to who Ashton was going to propose. It was maddening.
“Exactly!” I agreed. Suddenly a question popped into my mind that I had been pondering over for a while. I debated on asking Liz, but in the end I knew I had to know.
“Can I ask you something?” I asked, albeit a little hesitantly. I knew she could sense from my tone I sounded serious enough, so she looked up at me curiously, responding with a simple “sure.”
Even before I asked, I felt like I already knew what her answer would be. “You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to, but… do you love him?” I questioned.
She closed her eyes for a moment, the expression on her face and the look in her eyes as she opened them confirming how she felt even without answering.
“Yes,” she admitted, her tone unwavering. She looked so elegant and poised sitting in front of me, one of the many things I admired about her, especially since admitting your love for another man couldn’t be the easiest thing in the world. Liz certainly didn’t show it.
I smiled gently at her as she looked earnestly at me. “Then if he chooses you, I wish the both of you every happiness. I hope you know that, I want him to be happy no matter what happens,” I declared, meaning every word. Of course I wanted Ashton to be happy, but the thought of him kissing her, holding her, loving her… I could already feel my heart break slightly at the idea. Nevertheless, I would put on a brave face. It was all I could do, really, if Liz was the one he chose.
“Do you… do you love him?” she asked tentatively. “Because if you do, then I wish the same for you.” Her sincere words only surprised me slightly, but I didn’t doubt them, knowing she had been one of the few genuine girls involved in the Selection.
My voice was soft with conviction as I answered, “With all my heart. And thank you, Alizé, that means a lot.” I couldn’t tell how she felt about my answer, but I’m sure it wasn’t the easiest thing to hear.
“Thank you too, Holly.”
“Of course,” I responded with a smile.
She easily returned my smile. “I wish it didn’t have to end like this”
I sighed, thinking along the same lines. “Me either. It feels so bittersweet. This competition was never easy to begin with and I can’t believe how much this whole experience has changed me. I mean I still feel like me, but also different.” I said, her expression turning thoughtfully curious at my answer.
“I haven’t really thought about that, but you’re probably right. It definitely helped me to realize that love was a bad thing.” Her answer confused me, so I inquired about it and she ended up telling me about her ex-boyfriend and the unfortunate outcome. It saddened me a little to know that she had gone through something so painful that it could warp her opinion on love. I never had experience with love, at all really, except I always believed that love could only be good, no matter the obstacles or hard times.
I was glad, though, that she felt she could confide in me. Even though we were in love with the same man, I wanted to be good friends with Alizé. It was probably a foolish notion, but I hoped nonetheless.
Eventually I left after talking a bit more with her, somehow feeling less anxious than I did when I first arrived in the Women’s Room. I knew that Ashton would be happy with Alizé if he chose her, and that comforted in an odd way. I wandered around the grounds of the palace the rest of the day, wondering what events the rest of the week would bring, knowing they would be nothing less than eventful.
Three days had passed and I hadn’t seen much of Ashton, only hearing about his dates with the other girls and seeing him at meals. But this afternoon was my turn, and I was simultaneously eager and nervous to see how our date would pan out.
My maids had just left my room when I heard a knock, already knowing it was him. I hopped up from my window seat and slipped on my flats, straightening out my skirt before opening the door. He smiled a dazzling grin when he saw me which I eagerly returned.
“Hey,” I said simply.
His eyes sparkled as he returned my greeting. “Hey.”
“Feel like doing anything specific on our date?” I asked, stepping out of my room and closing the door behind me.
He shook his head and held out a hand. “All on you.” I gladly took it, enjoying the warmth it offered my cold one. I smiled at his answer, noting how the Selected’s dates all had one thing in common: he always let us choose.
“Well walking around the gardens seems good to me,” I offered, wanting some semblance of privacy for the rest of our date.
“Alright then,” he agreed, squeezing my hand slightly and leading us down the hallway towards the direction of the gardens. I looked up at him as we walked and spotted the dark circles under his eyes, the telltale sign of his stress. The thought of him tossing and turning all night because of us girls and his other duties worried me. You do so much for everyone when all everyone does is ask the world of you.
“How are you doing with just us four left?” I inquired with a gentle tone.
He looked down at me with a sigh. “Nervous,” was all he offered.
I nodded. “I get that. I’m nervous too, to be honest,” I admitted.
He looked down at me once again as we made our way out of the palace and into the palace. “Not the easiest thing in the world is it?”
“Definitely not,” I agreed with a sigh.
He smiled at my response before turning away to lead us through the well-worn path of the gardens. It reminded me of our first date, the day just as sunny and beautiful as it had been then. I realized that this large, grand palace had begun to feel like home and I felt sad at the thought that it could all end soon.
“You know, I’ve really loved being here at the palace,” I admitted.
“I’ve loved having you here,” he answered, looking pleased at my words.
“Good,” I replied with a grin, earning a chuckle from him. We walked in comfortable silence for a few moments while I stared him every so often, feeling my pulse quicken. This prince, this man, had snuck his way into my heart, and I knew without a doubt that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him.
I just hope you want to spend the rest of your life with me.
Shortly before the families had left, we had been talking in my room about nothing and everything when I finally told him that I loved him. I thought it would have been hard to confess my feelings, but I found it strangely exhilarating. Now, looking at him walking with me, gently holding my hand, I felt compelled to tell him how I felt again. Not that he needed a reminder, but I just had this need to tell him that I wasn’t quite sure where it came from.
I tugged his hand, pulling the both of us to a stop and he looked at me curiously, confused by my actions. “I feel like I should… I don’t know, be clear with you,” I began. “How much I want to be here, I want it so much more than I ever thought I did.”
At my words, the smile I adored fell upon his lips. “I… that… makes me very happy,” he managed to get out.
I gladly returned the smile, squeezing his hand slightly as I continued with my words, “I want you to know that I want you and everything else. I want to help your people, make a difference, and I never knew I wanted that before I came here.” I had come to this realization after our service projects and program proposals. Seeing what I could do to help the women and their children, it only fueled the sudden need to help as many people as I could.
“More than that, I want you. You make me feel bold, like I can do anything. No one else has been able to do that for me before. You make me happy, Ashton, and I want to make you happy too. I love you, your smirks, the way you care about to people, your honesty… I hope you choose me. That you choose to love me the way I love you. Even if you don’t… I know you’ll be happy with one of the other girls and that’s what matters. I just want you to know how much I want you.” When I finished, a look I couldn’t decipher entered his bright blue eyes and he stepped closer to me, using his other hand to lightly brush my cheek. I leaned into him, closing my eyes for a second, reveling in his touch.
His voice was incredibly gentle when he finally spoke. “Thank you,” he said.
I opened my eyes only to see him leaning down, pressing his lips to mine as softly as possible. My eyes fell shut again as I kissed him back, feeling so many different emotions coming from him as he kissed me. He let go of my hand to wrap his arm around my waist, lifting my short frame slightly. I let one hand grasp his neck, the other burying itself in his hair. Although other times our kisses had left me burning with want for him, this one felt so tender. How his lips moved against mine, the way he held me to him… I could feel hope blooming in my heart wondering if he actually felt the same way I did.
He pulled back, kissing my nose before leaning his forehead against mine. I smiled at his actions, trying to memorize everything about him and this moment.
“I think I should be the one thanking you,” I uttered quietly.
He kissed my cheek before leaning back to look at me. “You don’t have to.”
“I’m just.. very grateful for my time here,” I said with a shrug.
“Me too,” he agreed. I was still in his arms, not planning on moving any time soon, when I came up with an idea.
“Alright, let’s do something you feel like doing. As much as I like picking out our dates, let’s see what you can come up with for a change,” I suggested with a grin.
He pouted at my words and I suddenly got an image of what he must have looked like as a little boy. “But I’m bad at that,” he protested, letting go of me only to take my hand again, leading us through the gardens once again.
“Aw come on,” I said, squeezing his hand. “I bet you can come up with something.”
His smile was playful as he answered. “Nope.”
I shook my head at this difficult royal. “Well then I guess you’re stuck with me talking your ear off.”
“I like that,” he declared, a happy expression on his face.
I smiled at his words. “You’re too charming for your own good,” I said, knowing full well he already knew how charming he could be.
“Maybe a bit,” he supposed with a grin. As we approached a nearby gazebo, rose vines entwined throughout the white posts of the picturesque structure, he led us to it. We sat down on a bench, his leg pressed against mine with our joined hands resting on his thigh.
“Can I ask you something?” I began.
“You always can, you don’t have to ask first,” he pointed out, but with a kind tone.
I felt my cheeks warm. “I guess it’s just habit. But I’ve been wondering… are you choosing one of us based on who you love, or as a duty to your people on who you think would make the best queen?” I questioned. Part of me hoped he would set aside all reservations and follow his heart, but I knew it wasn’t that easy.
His smile was sad as he gazed down at me. “Both I guess.”
I nodded at his words and let my free hand softly cup his cheek. “I hope you follow your heart, whether for love or duty.
“Thanks, Hol,” he said with a smile.
“Anytime,” I assured, returning his grin.
He leaned down and pressed his lips to my cheek, making my heart flutter. “You look very pretty today, just so you know.”
My eyes averted for a moment, my cheeks warming again at his compliment. “There’s that charm,” I muttered with a small smile.
I brought my eyes back to his, only to look his slender but muscular frame up and down. “You don’t look too bad yourself.”
He let go of my hand to pop his collar jokingly. “I just threw this on.” I laughed freely at his actions, loving this side of him.
“Oh definitely, so suave of you,” I teased. Suddenly he grabbed my hand and stood up, taking me with him, before wrapping an arm around my shoulders to lead us out of the gazebo and back towards the palace.
“I’m glad you noticed,” he said.
I slid an arm around his waist before answering. “Hard not to.”
He peered down at me with an amused stare. “Getting a little flirty, I like it.”
“What can I say, you make me want to flirt all day long,” I said with a smirk, internally cringing at my corny words.
“Little cheesy, but okay okay,” he assured me with a laugh.
I giggled, knowing I had absolutely zero experience with flirting besides when I was with Ashton. “Yeah I’m a little rusty.”
“I’d say just perfect but… semantics,” he stated, making me smile at his sweet words.
“I wouldn’t mind practicing though,” I suggested as we found ourselves walking back into the palace once again.
I could hear the amusement in his voice when he spoke. “Practice away.”
“Any tips?” I asked, raising an eyebrow at him.
“Nothing I can put into words.”
I nodded. “Well let’s see. There’s probably too many things about you that I love, I couldn’t possibly name just one.”
“Good start, good start,” he encouraged with a laugh.
“Why don’t you show me how it’s done.” He stopped abruptly, looking deeply into my eyes as he spoke.
“I would, but I’m just a little lost in your eyes,” he countered, that playful gleam in his eyes once again.
“Very smooth, your highness,” I said, taking his hand once again as we walked up the stairs towards my room. He responded to my words with a simple wink, making me smile as I felt a fluttery feeling in my stomach.
We didn’t say anything until we reached the door of my room, and I felt a pang in my chest knowing our date had come to an end.
“Thank you for this.. lovely last date,” I uttered softly with a smile. “Good luck with your choice, Ashton,” I said, truly wishing him the best.
“Thank you, Holly,” he answered, tucking a piece my hair behind my ear.
“Of course.” I was going to turn around and go into my room, but when I looked into his eyes, I knew I had to kiss him just one last time, knowing it could be the last time I would ever be able to.
I stepped up on my tiptoes and grasped the back of his neck, bringing his lips down to mine. He responded instantly, grasping my waist as he kissed me back. I poured everything I felt into this kiss, hoping he could feel it too. I love you, Ashton Schreave.
I pulled back before I could get lost in his lips, giving him a tender smile before I turned and opened the door to my room. I looked at him once more with a simple “goodbye.”
“Bye, Hol,” he uttered, his eyes the last thing I saw before I shut the door to my room.
Suddenly exhausted, I made my way over to my bed and plopped myself down, staring up at the ceiling. I had no idea how this competition was going to end, but I knew no matter what happened, I would try to be ready for it. No, I would be ready for it. I would pull myself together if he chose someone else. I would put my heart back together piece by piece, knowing full well that someday, I would be okay.
Lady Holly Borelli’s Program for the Women of Illéa
She’s gone, Paisley. Another friend eliminated.
I wrote to my sister, reflecting on what had been announced this morning that still surprised me. Anjana, my newest friend in the competition, had been one of the girls asked to leave and I couldn’t help but feel like another piece of me left with her.
All the friends I’ve made have been asked to leave and I’m not sure what to do now since it’s down to the Elite. Can you believe that? Me. Part of Prince Ashton’s Elite. That’s part of why I think it’ll be hard for me to talk with the other girls. Most of us want him so much that friendship is the last thing on their minds.
I paused, thinking that no matter what happened, I didn’t want to end my time at the competition with any bad blood with the rest of the Selected.
Except… I want to be different. I think a huge part of what makes a good queen is to try and make the best of any situation, so that’s what I’m going to do. Keep a friendly face on and make the most of whatever time I have left with Ashton. Speaking of Ashton, I know you asked about what he’s like.
Ashton is unlike any person I’ve ever met. Although that seems obvious, being the prince and all. He’s very cool and composed on the outside, like what we’ve seen on TV all these years, but in the time I’ve spent with him, he’s so much more. He puts Illéa and us girls first, always, and has this deeply passionate side that seems like it’s always fighting to get out. I really love being with him because he listens, you know? I know what you’re going to say, of course you listen to me too, but something about the way he looks at me when I say something… I could be in big trouble with Ashton.
But Paisley, the way I’ve been feeling with him, I’m scared. Scared that if I finally admit my feelings he won’t feel the same way and I’ll leave with nothing but a broken heart and some fond memories. You know me, fantasizing was something I was never fond of and Ashton isn’t any different when it comes to that. Anyways, I know that’s probably not what you want to hear from me, so I’ll leave it at that.
I hope you enjoy the pictures of the art in the castle, they really are so very beautiful and I wish you could see them in person. Tell mom and dad I say hi and please try not to go too crazy while I’m gone (I know how you are even all the way over here Angeles, little sis).
All my love,
Holly
I finished off the last letter of my name and let the paper sit for a moment, not wanting any ink to smear as I folded the paper. Leaning back in my chair I looked out the window from the Women’s Room and noticed I had a perfect view of the garden, specifically the far off field where I had spent my last date with Ashton. I smiled, wishing I could be in that exact moment right now, his hands brushing my own and his eyes bright as he looked at me.
“Holly?” a voice interrupted my thoughts and I jumped slightly. I turned to see Yanely standing near the desk, one eyebrow raised at me.
“Sorry, just got lost in thought I guess,” I said with a small smile, but there was no warmth as she looked at me, just exasperation.
“You seem to do that a lot,” she stated simply, and before I could respond she spoke once more.
“Can I have some paper please?” she asked, gesturing to the pile sitting on the desk and I nodded, handing her several pages.
She gave me a thin smile and a polite ‘thank you’ before turning around and walking away back towards the rest of her group, what they proudly referred to themselves as “The Hoe Squad.”
I sighed to myself, wondering why Yanely didn’t seem to appear open to anyone but her friends. In a way I understood, friends were hard to come by and if they were close like Gracebella, Yanely, Winter, and Cillia, I could understand her hesitance towards others.
Focus, Holly. There’s more to this competition than the other girls and right now you have to focus on the next task.
Now that we were a part of the Elite, the Selected had been tasked with presenting an idea to help better Illéa, a challenge designed to prepare one of us for becoming Queen in the future. I had made up my mind to continue what Anjana and I had worked on for the service projects, honoring her and the people we helped. I knew that if the program became a monthly service, we would be able to help so many women and their children.
With a new motivation in my heart, I grabbed a fresh piece of paper and began to write, planning out what would hopefully be a successful program to make Illéa a better place.
* * *
My heart was pounding as I waited in the hallway outside a conference room in the palace. It was my day to present my program, and I was to present it in front of Ashton, our royal advisor, and the queen herself. The days leading up to my presentation were filled with long nights in the library, consulting other advisors, and simply perfecting my proposal to the best of my abilities.
“Waiting to present?” a voice said behind me and I turned to see Gracebella, lovely in a navy blue dress, dark hair curled in soft waves. I smiled at her, but inside I’m rather unsettled. I always felt off talking to her, even though she was sweet enough. Although I knew the reason I felt that way was because of everything I knew about her and Ashton.
“Yeah, I’m next. The last one for today it seems,” I said, smiling slightly.
She smiled in return before answering, “I’m sure you’ll be alright. Everyone has done well so far so I don’t see why you would be any different.”
“That’s kind of you, thanks,” I replied and she smiled once more before nodding her head and walking away.
I stared after her, not quite sure what to make of our brief conversation, but I told myself to forget Gracebella for the moment and focus on getting my hands to stop shaking.
Just breathe. You’ll be okay. In, and out. In, and out.
I closed my eyes and repeated my mantra to myself until I could feel my heartbeat return to normal. When I opened my eyes, Ashton was there in the doorway of the conference room, staring at me with a small smile on his face. I stumbled back in surprise, not expecting him there, watching me.
“Doing alright?” he asked with a laugh and I narrowed my eyes playfully.
“I’m doing just fine, thank you very much,” I answered with as much confidence I could muster.
He held up his hands in defense as he spoke, “No judgements here, I know plenty about being nervous. But I can tell you thing I know for sure,” he said, walking towards me.
“What’s that?” I asked, and he took one of my hands in his as he neared me.
“That you’re going to be great no matter what happens. Remember how I said you always seem to know what to say? Pretty sure that applies here too,” he said, blue eyes warm as they peered into my own.
I smiled softly, my heart beating erratically once again, but for an entirely different reason than nerves, “Thank you Ashton.”
“Anytime. Now should we go in or just stand out here in the hall forever?” he asked with a smirk, squeezing my hand before letting it go, while I rolled my eyes.
He led me inside the room, and there I saw sitting at the head of the table was the queen herself, speaking quietly with the Selected’s royal advisor. She looked beautiful, her light hair pulled back in an elegant updo, posture poised even sitting in a casual setting. Ashton left my side and went to sit in the seat to his mother’s right while the queen turned towards me. When her eyes met mine, I executed a deep curtsey, gathering the skirt of my white dress in one hand.
She nodded once before speaking, “Good afternoon, Lady Holly. Are you ready to present?”
I took a deep breath before I answered, “Completely.” She smiled warmly at me and gestured for me to begin. I dimmed the lights and picked up a control that was already waiting on the table in front of me. As I pressed a button the first image from my slideshow came up on the screen, a picture of Anjana and I standing together with various women and their children.
“These are the women of Illéa. Well, some of them. We live in such a beautiful country with many wonderful resources, but these women, they haven’t had the same opportunities. My goal is to change that,” I began, remembering the words I had practiced in my room the night before. I changed the image and the new one was a picture of a mother and her daughter, bruises visible on the both of them as they stood outside one of the community centers we held the program in.
“These women and their children have been abused by their husbands, fathers, boyfriend, any male figure you can think of. And they have had no help whatsoever. As you can see, Anjana and I completed a project like this for our previous task, but I felt so touched by the results that I hoped to continue this service and make it a monthly event throughout Illéa,” I continued, clicking through various pictures of Anjana and I assisting in whatever way we could just a couple of weeks ago.
I eventually came to the end of my slide show as I spoke more of the positive changes that would hopefully take place in these women’s lives. When I finished, I picked up my folder that was waiting on the table, taking out three pieces of paper and handing them to the advisor, Ashton, and the queen.
“I could talk all day about the wonderful things I saw in just one day, but I know you are also interested in the logistics of my service,” I said and the queen smiled.
I picked up my own sheet of paper and began to explain, “Services like these do cost a lot of money, but I have here listed at the top of the paper various businesses and wealthy families who are willing to provide donations every month for at least the first year so we could keep these services going. They generously helped Anjana and I previously and are eager to continue helping,”
“Following the list of donors is a list of community centers around Angeles who are prepared to offer their centers the second Saturday every month for a year. Currently this program is only in Angeles, but once it becomes more popular, we will be able to implement it in other provinces. I know this seems like a short amount of time, one year, but both the donors and the centers wish to see how successful this program is before promising a longer timeline for their services. If it’s how I anticipate it to be, then this program should continue for many years,” I explained, noticing all three of the individuals in front of me taking notes on their papers.
I set my paper down, no longer needing it for the end of my presentation, as I continued, “The services we will provide will be various types of counseling catering towards each unique situation, and other services such as living possibilities or legal services. The entire list of services is there at the end of your paper.”
I paused, wanting to say one final thing before I finished, “Your majesty… my main goal is to help these women. To me it doesn’t matter how it’s done, but they have gone through so much that the least we can do is try to make their future better than what it is now. All of us have been privileged to live a life of comfort and safety, but these women haven’t. They live in fear and when I saw the fear in their eyes or their children’s… there was nothing I wanted more than to take that fear away. If none of what I’m saying works, I’m willing to modify it until it’s absolutely perfect. This is more than a challenge for me, it’s me holding the lives of women in my hands and making sure I take care of them.”
I tried to convey the passion for what I felt in my voice, meeting each and every one of the three’s eyes as I spoke. Ashton’s expression looked proud, and I felt my heart soar at the thought of him being pleased with my project.
When I looked at the queen once more, she was staring at me curiously and I held my breath until she spoke, “I admire your passion, Holly. It’s one of the main things we look for with the Elite’s projects. If you don’t mind, I have a few questions for you?”
“Of course, what would you like to know?” I asked, hoping I was ready for whatever she asked. She peered at her paper once before speaking.
“Your previous service project with Miss. Banks was done with the Sevens and Eights of Angeles. How would you hope to include other castes of the population? And how do you know women will even come?” she asked.
“Word of mouth, honestly. The women who already came will tell others they see in need, and once higher castes see the help other women are getting, my hope is that they will follow in their footsteps,” I answered.
She raised one eyebrow, “You hope. There is no guarantee?”
Her question made me pause, but I proceeded once I thought of an answer, “Yes Your Majesty, hope. With any service we provide, we hope that we’ll be able to help people. There never is a guarantee. We either succeed, or we fail. Even then we hope it’s not the latter, but in my opinion, if this were to fail, I would keep trying and trying until I succeeded,” I replied. The queen merely nodded at my answer, blue eyes pensive as she seemed to mull it over. There was a pause in the room as no one spoke, but eventually the queen filled the silence.
“Well, I don’t think I can argue with that,” she said with a laugh and I smiled with relief.
“I hope to see this program throughout Illéa one day, truly, I do. Thank you for your time,” she said, nodding her head once. I curtseyed in response and turned around to walk out of the room when she called me one last time.
“Lady Holly?”
“Yes, Your Majesty?” I asked, turning my head. Her expression was beaming as she looked at me and I wondered what else she could have to say.
“Well done,” was all she said, and I smiled in thanks before finally leaving. Once I left the conference room I headed straight to the gardens, wanting to find a private spot to sit away from the palace. I found a bench out of view from the palace and sat down, in shock of what had just happened and not quite sure how to react.
So I laughed.
Laughed with relief and happiness from what I felt was a successful presentation. Eventually my laughs subsided, but my relief was replaced with a new inspiration. If I could present in front of the queen with her approval, there was nothing I couldn’t do. And suddenly, I wasn’t afraid anymore.
I’m done being scared. I’m going to fight for what I want no matter what happens in the end.
With my newfound motivation, I stood up to find Ashton, hoping to tell him what I just realized. But when I turned towards the direction of the palace, there he was, appearing abruptly as he always did. His expression was amused as he watched me, but it quickly changed to confusion as I marched towards him without saying a word.
When I reached him, I grabbed the front of his shirt and brought his face down to mine, quickly planting my lips firmly on his own. He responded instantly, circling his arms around my waist and lifting my short frame slightly. I sighed with content as his lips moved in sync with my own and I let my hands slowly move up his chest until they rested in his hair, earning a groan from him. Eventually we both had to come up for air and when I opened my eyes he was staring at me with a dumbfounded expression on his face, lips red.
“What was that for?” he asked, voice husky and questioning. I stared deeply into his eyes before I spoke, wanting him to be able to see how much I meant what I was going to say.
“I’m going to fight, Ashton. For you, for Illéa, everything. This entire time I’ve been too scared to admit what I was feeling, but I’m not anymore. I’ve been scared my entire life, never doing what I truly wanted. That ends here,” I paused, trying to find the bravery to continue saying what I felt deep in my heart.
“I’m done being scared because… You. You’re worth it. Even if you send me home and I leave with a broken heart, I will never have regretted giving my heart to you because for once in my life I will have done something meaningful to myself. I’m fighting for you now, Ashton Schreave,” I finished, trying unsuccessfully to discern the mixture of emotions I saw in his eyes. He opened his mouth, except couldn’t seem to find any words, so I leaned up once again to kiss him softly. This kiss was different than the first, but I still poured every emotion I felt for him into it, hoping he could feel how much I truly meant what I said.
I pulled back, smiling at him, and pulled out of his arms to walk away. He didn’t say anything or try to stop me, merely letting everything I said soak in. I got one last glimpse of him as I turned a corner in the gardens, noting the shocked expression he still had. But as I walked away into the palace, I smiled, standing a little taller.
Watch out, girls. Because I’m not going anywhere without a fight.
Lady Holly Borelli & Lady Anjana Bank’s Service Project
I’m screwed.
I thought as I finished listening to the announcement that was just given to the remaining Selected by Ashton himself.
We had been assigned the task of assisting the Sevens and Eights of Angeles with some sort of charity project, which of course I had no qualms about. My only reservation was the fact that Daisy was gone, my go to partner for projects such as this one. I was allowed to work alone if I wished, except I wanted a partner. Someone I could work with to make the end result of this task even better than it could be.
As I looked around the Women’s Room I noticed most of the girls had linked themselves in partnerships or threesomes already, more specifically Gracebella, Yanley, and Winter. Those three were thick as thieves, but thankfully they had overcome the drama of Gracebella’s time with Ashton, relieving the rest of us Selected from their tension. My eyes continued scanning the room when they suddenly landed on Anjana, standing by a window. I decided not to second guess myself as I walked towards her, remembering how well we had worked together for the previous group project.
Her face broke into a smile as she noticed me nearing, “Hey Holly.”
I smiled in response, encouraged by her reaction, “Hey Anjana, how are you?”
“I’m good. Ready to tackle this project. You?” she answered, looking fierce and determined as ever.
“A bit nervous, but still excited. I actually came over here to ask if you would like to be partners,” I said, slightly nervous.
She grinned kindly, “I had a feeling that’s why you came over. My answer is yes, I’d love to!”
I sighed with relief and she laughed slightly, taking my arm to lead me away from the other girls.
“I actually have a pretty good idea in mind,” she said once we were out in the hallway, “Well, at least I think it’s a good idea,” she added with a sly grin and I giggled in response.
“I trust you and your ideas. What is it?” I asked, curious to see what she had come up with.
“Let’s head back to my room and I can tell you all about it,” she answered with confidence while I nodded, ready to take on this challenge as a team.
***
“Um, excuse me miss?” a small voice said from my right. I looked down to see a hopelessly skinny little girl, dark hair in tangles and clothes tattered, barely more than eight years old. As I bent down to be at her level, I noticed her honey colored eyes were red rimmed, tear streaks visible on her dark brown cheeks.
“Yes? What’s the matter, sweetheart?” I asked, taking one of her small hands with my own. I felt my own heart breaking at the sight of another broken, innocent child.
“My mommy told me to wait with the other kids, but she’s been gone a while and I can’t find her,” her voice broke as she finished, tears streaming down her face once again.
I opened my arms to her and she eagerly stepped into them, burying her face in my shoulder, “Can you tell me your name? Then we can try and find your mommy,” I asked, rubbing soothing circles into her back.
I heard her soft voice murmur her name and I nodded, remembering her mother stepping into a cubicle with a counselor earlier.
“Okay, Kaia. Your mommy is still talking to one of the adults like me, but she’ll be out soon, I promise. Would you like to sit with me until she comes out?” I asked, pulling back to look into her eyes. She nodded and I stood up, taking her hand once again to lead her to one of the tables assembled throughout the community center. My eyes drifted across the room, noticing each and every woman, each one looking defeated and wary in her own way. Not all had children, but most did.
Anjana had really astounded me with her wonderful idea, suggesting we help the abused wives and mothers of the seven and eight population. She had formulated the plan with my assistance, both of us agreeing to bring in counselors and other means of assistance to hopefully give these women a better life. I had volunteered to organize the project, making all the necessary calls to make sure our plan went off without a hitch. In the end, we were able to open up several community centers throughout Angeles with many women in attendance. Anjana and I chose to visit only a couple of the centers throughout the day, wanting to meet the women personally.
All this had led me here with sweet Kaia, one of the many children I had visited with during the day. While I chose to spend more of my time with the children, Anjana had drifted towards the women, wanting to speak to as many as she could. I saw her sitting at a table across the room, deep in conversation with a girl who couldn’t be more than twenty, holding her young son in her arms. Suddenly the girl burst into tears, Anjana reaching over to envelop her and the girl’s son in her arms.
I felt Kaia’s small hand slip away from my hands as her small voice shouted, “Mommy!”
I turned to see little Kaia running towards her mother who had just come out of a private cubicle, her mother’s arms opening to take her daughter and hug her tightly. A smile fell upon my lips, happy to see Kaia’s mother looking better than when she had first come in.
“It’s nice to see, isn’t it?” Anjana asked, appearing at my side while looking towards Ava and her mother, acknowledging the hopeful expression on both of their faces as they walked towards the exit. Kaia peeked over her mother’s shoulder at me, offering me a small wave.
I waved in response as I answered, “It is. I wish we could do more though.”
Anjana nodded in agreement, eyes thoughtful, “I wish we could too. But think about how many lives we were able to change today? How many women who get to leave here knowing that their life isn’t going to get worse?” she said, expression wondrous as she turned towards me.
“What we did was… incredible. I couldn’t imagine doing this project any other way. You were amazing Anjana, talking to all of those wives and mothers and letting them open up to you like that,” I said, admiring all of the wonderful skills she possessed.
She smiled in thanks before replying, “Thank you, but I don’t think you’re giving yourself enough credit. The way I was with the mothers, you were just as good with their children. You made them feel safe, which I’m sure they haven’t felt in a very long time.”
I felt my cheeks heat up at her praise and she giggled, “Be proud of what you can do, Holly. At what we both can do,” she said, taking my hand with hers. I nodded, feeling a surge of pride for what we were able to accomplish with the women here today.
“Thank you, Anjana. For everything. I’m glad I was able to find another friend in the Selection,” I said, truly grateful for her friendship. I had worried about my place in the Selection after Daisy left, not wanting to isolate myself from the other girls, yet simultaneously not wanting to intrude on the tight bonds the remaining girls had already formed. Now, I felt confident and secure, knowing I’d have an ally to keep me going through the rest of the Selection. At least for a little while.
“I’m glad we’re friends too, Holly,” she replied, smiling genuinely, “Now let’s stop being all sappy and head back to the palace to celebrate, yeah?”
I laughed and nodded, ready to do nothing else but spend the rest of my evening reveling in all the good I had done with Anjana, finally feeling like I had done something worthwhile while at the palace. Not only for the women we had helped, but for myself as well. My heart was full as we linked arms, walking out of the community center to whatever the Selection held next.
Oh my goodness okay so my friend just had a baby, and the couple times I've been to visit little Paisley has totally done the baby bird thing with her mouth. I've finally been able to see it in person and it's just the most precious thing!!
😍😍😍 That’s so cute!! 😍😍😍 I need a loaner baby so I can snuggle it and admire facial expressions and then return it before poop-splosions happen 🙃
"Holly?" Daisy calls out to me, but I’m too lost in my thoughts to register her voice.
"Hoooolllyyy" Princess Gracebella Schreave... Has a nice ring to it.
With that thought I feel a surprising pang in my chest.
"HOLLY" Daisy shakes me and I jump, not realizing how much I had zoned out from our conversation.
"Sorry, I just... got lost in thought," I say apologetically and she gives me a small smile.
"I can see that. Is it about what Gracebella said?" she asks and I nod.
"Do you think it's true?" I ask and her brows furrow, expression muddled.
"She seemed pretty genuine to me, but I guess her and Ashton are the only ones who know," she shrugs.
"I want to ask him, but I’m not sure if I want to know the answer," I admit and her expression turns sympathetic.
"Either way, you'll want to know in the end. And I think he'll be honest with you. Especially after what you told me happened the other day," she says.
"It was just a couple of kisses, I'm sure he's kissed almost every other girl here," I whisper, not wanting the other girls in the Women's Room to know about our private moments.
"You know it's his way of trying to see who he's compatible with. It also means that he’s comfortable with you. Ask him and see,” she says with a reassuring smile, reaching over the couch we’re sitting on to squeeze my hand.
“You’re right,” I say, shaking my head, “Thank you.”
“Anytime. I am the older and wiser friend after all,” she grins with a wink, and I roll my eyes, laughing, as I get off the couch.
“Only by a few months!” I respond and she smirks.
“Still wiser,” she says as I walk out of the Women’s Room, shaking my head.
***
I had been walking around the palace for a while when I stumble across the music room, happy to find some relief for my nerves. Usually baking helped ease my stress, but right now I felt compelled to do something I hadn’t done in weeks.
Walking over to the piano I admire all of the lovely instruments, wondering if someone in the palace could play any of them, or if it was just for show.
As I sit down I marvel at the beauty of the grand piano, never having played on one so lovely. I let my fingers brush over the keys, starting to play the tune I remembered from days filled with sunlight on my cheeks and laughter drifting through my house. The song fills me with peace and I smile, beginning to sing the words that I had never forgotten.
Lavender’s blue, dilly, dilly, lavender’s green
When I am king, dilly, dilly, you shall be queen
Who told you so, dilly, dilly, who told you so?
’Twas my own heart, dilly, dilly, that told me so
I remembered my mother softly singing the lullaby to me when I had trouble falling asleep, her hand softly stroking my hair. Nothing soothed me more than the combination of her gentle touch and lulling voice. I miss her so fiercely, suddenly, that I feel a pang of sadness deep in my gut.
Lavender’s green, dilly, dilly, lavender’s blue
If you love me, dilly, dilly, I will love you
Let the birds sing, dilly, dilly, and the lambs play
We shall be safe, dilly, dilly, out of harm’s way
I love to dance, dilly, dilly, I love to sing
When I am queen, dilly, dilly, you’ll be my king
Who told me so, dilly, dilly, who told me so?
I told myself, dilly, dilly, I told me so
“So do you?” a voice says and I whip around from the piano bench, heart racing, only to see Ashton himself leaning against a wall near the piano.
“You scared me,” I say with a nervous chuckle and he offers an apologetic smile.
“That wasn’t my intention, I apologize, but you haven’t answered my question,” he responds, blue eyes intense.
“Do I what?” I ask, not sure what he’s referring to.
“Do you love to dance? You obviously love to sing, beautifully at that, but I don’t think you’ve ever told me that you love to dance,” he notes, walking over to sit on the bench beside me.
“It’s just a song,” I answer.
“True, but with every song rings an air of truth,” he says, eyes peering into my own, and I suddenly feel so very exposed.
“You could say that. What do you think the truth is in this song?” I ask, trying to hold my own against this formidable royal.
“I’m not sure yet. But maybe the next time I hear you sing it I’ll figure it out,” he says quietly, a small smile on his lips.
“Speaking of truths, I was wondering if I could ask you something,” I say, looking away from his intense gaze and trying to find the words for what I wanted to ask.
“Anything,” he responds immediately.
“So…I know it’s none of my business, and that we’re here for you to be with every one of us. Gracebella just confessed something to all of the Selected earlier, I’m sure you know what she’s talking about. I’m just,” I hesitate, taking a shaky breath, “wondering if it’s true.” I finished, finally looking at him. His eyes are pained, expression uncomfortable. He pauses before speaking, voice soft and tender.
“Look, I don’t want to lie to any of you. My intention was not, and never will be, to hurt any of you. But yes, it’s true,” he says, his face searching mine for my reaction. I know I don’t feel angry or upset… Just sad. Sad at the thought of losing him so quickly after barely getting to know him.
“Well, thank you for being honest with me,” I finally get out, not sure what else to say.
“I’m sorry,” he says, taking my hands in his own.
“To be honest, I don’t think you have anything to apologize for,” I admit and his eyebrows lift, surprise written all over his face.
“What you choose to do with each girl is private and your business. I realize it can get complicated dating so many girls at once, and if Gracebella is the one, then she’s the one. But I appreciate the apology,” I elaborate, realizing that I should feel nothing but happiness if Ashton ended up with the one he loved in the end.
“I’m not choosing her. I mean, not yet at least,” he says, and suddenly I feel hope blooming in my chest once again.
You’re in way too deep, Holly Borelli.
“Oh…I thought that’s why she told everyone, honestly,” I confess, looking away with embarrassment, yet soothed slightly by the coolness of his hands upon my own.
“No. I made a decision, and I don’t regret it. But it doesn’t mean I’ve picked her, or that I’m any closer to deciding ,” he says, voice firm but kind. My green eyes meet his blue before I respond.
“I understand,” I say, and he looks relieved. I understood, yet didn’t simultaneously. Trying to work out my feelings for this complex prince was becoming harder and harder every day I was in Angeles.
“Thank you. Not many people do,” he replies, a hint of frustration in his eyes.
“Of course, I try not to be too rash when it comes to other people,” I reassure and he looks pleased once again.
“I am sorry though, Holly. What we did was…stupid,” he admits, shaking his head. I squeeze his hand slightly before I respond.
“Everyone’s entitled to a few mistakes right?” I offer, giving him a small smile.
“Right,” he agrees, smiling in return.
“Thank you for apologizing, and I really do appreciate you being honest with me,” I say, meaning every word.
“Of course. I’ve really liked spending time with you,” he says, eyes genuine, and I feel a soft smile grace my lips.
“I’ve really liked spending time with you too,” I confess, my heart skipping a beat.
“Do you want to take a walk?” he asks, standing up from the bench.
“I’d like that,” I answer, gladly joining him.
We begin to walk out of the music room, and he guides us down the hall I know leads towards the gardens.
“So what have you been up to? How are you liking the palace?” he inquires.
“I love it here. A couple of times at night the staff have been kind enough to let me bake, it helps relieve some of my nerves. And your gardens! Walking through them is one of my favorite things to do here,” I gush, letting my enthusiasm for his home show.
“Do you hang out with the other girls much?” he asks, lacing our fingers together as we walk out into the gorgeous gardens I had grown to love. The sun would be setting soon, its light casting a magnificent orange and pink glow all around us.
“I have, yes. Daisy and I have become really good friends, and I really like Anjana and Roxana after working with them on the group challenge,” I answer.
“That’s good. You girls are a good group,” he states with sincerity.
“I think so too,” I say with a smile, thinking back on all of the laughs I’ve shared with this unique group of girls.
“So you’re okay here? You’re…adjusting? I know this life can seem a little daunting,” he admits, seemingly wary for what my answer could be.
“I think I am now. At first everything terrified me,” I say with a nervous smile, “But now I feel, content here.”
“Good. I want you to feel at home. I have a feeling you might be here for a while,” he declares, and my breath catches, pulse quickening with his statement.
“Really?” I say, gripping his hand a little tighter, “I’d…love that,” I manage to get out, and he grins before stopping in front of a plain part of the gardens. I look around to see a field of grass surrounded by trees, noticing nothing out of the ordinary.
“We use this for the soccer field. It’s the closest I’ve ever come to having a yard,” he says, looking at ease in the familiar area.
“It looks nice, I’m guessing you played a lot here growing up?” I ask, remembering again that picture of him as a boy playing soccer, a boyish grin on his face.
“Yeah, all the time,” he answers.
“How did you get into soccer?” I inquire, wondering where his passion for something seemingly ordinary stems from.
“My dad played to pass the time when he was younger, so he taught me,” he says and I understand, knowing how fathers wished to share their passions with their sons. I noticed it frequently with my brothers and our father.
“That’s sweet,” I say with a smile, and he nods, a look of nostalgia on his face as he stares across the field.
“So…are you any good?” I smirk slightly and he turns to look me, a challenging look in his eyes.
“I like to think so. Though it could just be my ego telling me that,” he says and I laugh.
“You know my brothers used to rope me into soccer games when I was younger. Should we see how good you really are and play a little?” I question, wanting a little challenge with this confident royal.
“You’re on,” he answers, grabbing a ball from a nearby bench. I grin and maneuver the ball away from him after he sets it on the ground, jogging onto the grass with it. He sprints after me and I kick the ball around a little, laughing.
“I’m so going to beat you,” he declares with a determined expression on his face.
“Not today, your highness,” I reply with a playful grin. He scoffs with doubt, yet good-naturedly. Swiftly he sprints towards me and steals the ball away, laughing as I stand there shocked at his skills.
Looks like he wasn’t exaggerating when he said he was good.
I recover quickly, though, and run after him to steal the ball back, silently thanking my brothers for their soccer phase as teenagers.
“No you don’t!” he yells, running after me, but all of a sudden grabs me and we both tumble to the ground. He braces our fall before rolling on top of me, blue eyes meeting mine.
“Hey that’s cheating!” I say through my laughter and he smirks.
“I think it’s strategic fouling,” he says with a chuckle as I look into his eyes.
“You were just worried I’d beat you,” I reply, feeling bold.
“Maybe. Or maybe I just really wanted to lay here on top of you,” he says in a husky voice, and I suddenly feel the air around us change with his declaration.
Well aren’t you a cheeky prince.
I feel my cheeks heat up under his intense gaze, yet I don’t find myself looking away.
“Looks like you got your way then,” I say.
“It seems that way, yes. But I don’t see you moving,” he notices with a grin.
“Maybe I don’t really want to,” I admit, feeling bold.
“Well I’d never take something you want away from you,” he says, his face leaning closer towards mine.
“Aren’t you considerate?” I whisper, not daring to move.
“Only the best for you, sweetheart,” he says quietly, eyes smoldering.
“Enjoying yourself?” I ask as I wrap my arms around his neck, knowing the answer. It occurs to me that anyone with a view of the gardens could see us out here in the open, but I find myself not caring in the slightest.
“Very much so,” he responds and I smile slightly.
“I’m glad to hear it,” I say, feeling his breath on my lips as he leans down, pressing a kiss to the corner of my mouth. I sigh in content before turning to meet his lips with my own. Right away I notice how this kiss is filled with so much more heat than the tender way he first kissed me, like he couldn’t get enough of me.
I suddenly understand what people mean when they say their knees go weak with a fantastic kiss. Luckily I was lying on the grass because otherwise I know I wouldn’t have been able to hold myself up. I feel his hand slide just under my shirt, the other drifting to my hair, and I shiver at his touch, every nerve in my body responding to him. I want to feel him, every part of him, so I kiss him a little harder, my hands roaming through his hair. He moves to kiss along my jaw and I sigh, running my hands down his back. Never in my life have I felt more alive, and I know that there’s nowhere I’d rather be than here with Ashton Schreave.
His lips move down my jaw to my neck and I hear him speak in between his bone melting kisses.
“We should probably,” kiss, “go inside,” he whispers, voice raspy.
“Y-yeah,” I gasp as his lips find a particularly sensitive spot just below my jaw, “we probably should,” I say breathlessly.
He kisses just below my ear and my breath catches once more as I feel it all the way down to my toes.
“We could go to my room or…” he offers, his tone hesitant. With his suggestion I have a sudden moment of clarity through my foggy thoughts, realizing that I don’t want this to go any further, no matter how much I seemed to want it. I know that whenever I choose to move forward with someone, whether it be Ashton or anyone else, I don’t want it to be like this.
“I-I think… we should cool off a bit. I’m sorry this is just… moving faster than I expected. Don’t get me wrong, I’m enjoying myself. I just…” I trail off, and I sit up as he moves off of me, nervously awaiting his response.
“Okay, we’ll slow down,” he says and I turn to him with a small smile. He leans over to kiss me once again, this time oh so slow, and I kiss him back before he pulls away.
“Slow is good,” he adds, his eyes sincere as they peer into mine.
“Are you sure? I know things with Gracebella are, different,” I ask, looking away. He forces me look at him again, though, as he gently grabs my chin and guides my face towards him.
“Different doesn’t mean better. Or worse. It’s just… different,” he says, trying to reassure me.
“That’s true,” I respond with a small smile and he looks more at ease with my answer, releasing my chin to tuck a piece of my hair behind my ear.
“Well, thank you for understanding,” I tell him, truly meaning it.
“Of course,” he says and leans over to kiss my cheek. I offer him a smile and dare to kiss him one more time, happy as he kisses me back.
“Just tell me what you’re ready for, and I’ll do whatever you want. I’ll stop whenever you need me to,” he says as he pulls back and I sigh in relief.
“You don’t know how happy I am to hear that,” I confess and he smiles, offering me a hand as he stands up.
“Of course. Just say the word,” he remarks and I take his hand, letting him pull me up.
“I will,” I agree. The urge to hug him fills me, so I do. Tightly. I feel him rest his chin on top of my head as he hugs me back and I sigh in content, marveling at the fact that I seem to fit perfectly in his arms. I bury my head in his chest, breathing in his woodsy scent that was unique to him. He begins to stroke my hair and I wonder how someone this wonderful could be in my life.
I lean back to look in his eyes, his arms still tight around my waist, before I speak again.
“You are amazing, Ashton Schreave,” I say quietly and he rests his forehead against mine, shrugging as he responds.
“I’m just…normal,” he says casually as I shake my head, smiling softly.
“You are kind, considerate, and intelligent. I haven’t met too many young men like that,” I admit and a boyish grin crosses his lips.
“Maybe I’m just trying to woo you,” he says and I giggle. The last few rays of sunlight shine upon us, lighting him up from behind, making him even more handsome than ever.
“I’d say you’re doing a pretty good job so far,” I say with a smile.
“Well good, because being perfect is getting exhausting,” he jokes and I laugh once again.
“Being exactly who are is enough, no perfection needed,” I assure him and he lifts his forehead from mine, expression wondrous.
“How come you always know what to say?” he asks, looking at me differently than he ever had before.
“What do you mean?” I question, wondering what he could mean.
“You make me feel so… calm. Like nothing else matters. Everything you say is perfect,” he says and I smile, remembering how my mother had once told me something similar.
“My mother used to say I was the calm, sensible one in the family. That I was the only one who could make sense of everyone,” I say, suddenly lost in a memory of my family immediately arguing with her as we ate dinner, joking with one another how I couldn’t possibly be the only sensible one.
“That’s exactly it,” he replies.
“I’m glad I make you feel that way. I just think I see the world differently sometimes,” I confess the thought I had kept to myself for years.
“I like that,” he says quietly, and I’m surprised to see his cheeks redden slightly.
“It has its moments. I know that I see you differently,” I admit and his coal blue eyes turn questioning.
“Differently than what?” he asks.
“Differently in that… you mean more to me,” I say, meaning every word.
“I do?” he questions, disbelief in his voice.
“Definitely yes,” I say with confidence and a smile breaks across his lips, the smile that I loved and only saw occasionally.
“Thank you,” he replies, his voice quiet.
“For what?” I ask, not sure what, exactly, he’s thanking me for.
“Everything,” he says simply and I smile, knowing almost immediately how he feels.
“You’re welcome,” I respond, and I stand there for a moment, simply enjoying being in his arms.
"Your highness?" a voice calls to my right and we both turn to see a guard standing on the path, looking embarrassed at having caught us embracing. Ashton releases me, only to grab my hand, as if to maintain contact with me.
"Yes?" he asks, his expression changing drastically from the warmth that was just there. His posture, even, straighter and braced, like he's ready for whatever could happen.
"You are needed for an emergency meeting with your father," he informs us and Ashton nods.
"I'll be right there," he says and the guard lowers his head slightly before turning away to leave us, but probably waiting just around the corner.
"It looks like I have to leave, but I'll see you later," he assures me, leaning down to kiss my cheek.
"Alright, I'll see you," I reply, giving his hand one last squeeze. He gives me that sweet smile again before he turns around and walks away.
I let out a breath I hadn't realized I'd been holding and feel a joy sweep through my body. Feeling the urge to share what happened, I walk down the path that leads back to the palace, hoping to find Daisy and tell her everything.
***
"Eliminated? What do you mean eliminated?" I ask in disbelief, not quite believing what Daisy had just informed me of.
"Ashton came to my room last night after you left and told me, along with other girls," she says, tears streaming down her cheeks. I reach over and wrap my arms around her, trying to soothe my friend.
"I just can't believe it. I don't know what I did wrong," she whimpers into my shoulder, her voice loud in my quiet bedroom.
"Nothing. You did nothing wrong, okay? Promise me that you believe that. I don't know why Ashton is sending you home, but you are strong and I know that somewhere out there is the perfect man for you. And the day you marry him I'll be sitting right there in the front row, cheering you on," I say as I pull back to look into her reddened brown eyes.
"I thought I was supposed to be the wiser one," she says with a small laugh through her tears and I smile.
"You already know everything I'm telling you, I'd say that makes you pretty wise," I reply, and she gives me a soft smile.
"Thank you, Holly. You've been such an amazing friend," she says, hugging me again.
"I'm so glad I met you, Daisy. Write to me, okay?" I say, not wanting to lose contact with this wonderful, amazing girl.
"Of course," she promises, giving me one last squeeze, then turns away to leave my room, most likely to gather the rest of her things. As she opens my door she turns and pauses, a determined expression on her face.
"Holly, I'm betting on you," is all she says with a smile before she turns away and leaves the Selection for good.
I sit down on the edge of my bed, wondering what I would do without my friend for the rest of the competition, but then realize one very important thing that makes me smile.
