5

We talked for three more minutes, and the plan was set. My tailor guided me to the fitting room once I was done. The boys waited outside, and when I stepped out, they were shocked. “You look extraordinary, my lady.” My tailor said,

“Thank you. Due to your skills, I always look great.” I said, looking into the mirror. “Beck, what are your thoughts about the announcement? I know my parents told you?”

“Yes, they did. It’s a stupid law that needs to be void. I never liked it anyways. You are a great leader and can do it without someone.” He stated. Beck always voiced his opinions which I liked. I don’t want people sugarcoating things. I agree with him; the law is stupid and needs to be changed.

But I won’t give up just because of this. Hours passed, and the dress was finished. I thanked Beck for his work. My servants and I headed back once everything was paid. Mikhal saw how unhappy I was. So, he stopped me. “My lady, would you like to get ice cream?” he asked. Drew was freaking out. He knew we had to be somewhere. Doing this would make the queen mad. But I couldn’t pass up his offer. Ice cream cheers me up.

We entered the shop, and the guys around stared at me lustfully. Mikhal went to order the ice cream for us. “Don’t worry, Drew. My mother will understand why I’m late. Just tell her the fitting went long.”

“You know I’m not obligated to lie, my lady. But I will try for you,” he said. I winked at him, which made him blush. Suddenly, Hazel sat by me. Where did she come from?

“Hello, your majesty. Nice to see you here.” She smiled brightly.

“Lady Hazel, shouldn’t you be heading to the palace for the event?” I asked. She was waiting for Anisel to arrive before heading out. Once his name came up, my whole face turned red.

Drew began to fan me, thinking I was hot. Good thing that Mikhal came back with the ice cream. I snatched it and placed it on my cheek. Hazel laughed.

“Cute,” she said.

After our little conversation, I went back home. As we entered the throne room, I saw the nobles lined up. All had different skin tones, some were girls, and some came from afar. My mother had a smile on her face when she saw us. “Why are you late, my daughter?” she said.

“Fitting went a little long, your majesty. Sorry for any inconvenience.” Drew said. I nodded as a thank you to Drew. I sat down on my throne. My nerves began as the line moved.

One after another, the nobles introduced themselves. They also explained why they wanted to be my future partner and what they would change if chosen. I was impressed by some, but not all. My eyes spotted Hazel, and right behind her was Anisel. He looked so handsome—I mean– never mind. I tried to control myself, but I couldn’t help it.

Hazel approached us with grace. “Hello, your Highnesses. I want to rule you know that. But I’m going to tell you the truth. I am not suited to be queen, especially for this kingdom. I want to step down from this event.” She said I’m glad she said something because being married to her would be awkward for the both of us. She is my best friend; I don’t want that to change. My mother smiled and shooed her away and laughed.

Next up was Anisel. Oh no. He bowed to us, then to my servants. “Your Majesty’s, my name is Anisel Armstrong. I’m the proud son of Mistress and Lord Armstrong from the Archon kingdom. My family is the highest of nobles, and I came all this way because of Princess Mia. I deeply fell for the princess and her beauty. If I’m chosen, I will always rule by her side.”

My mind was blown by how well he said that. The fact he expressed his love for me was puzzling. I just met him the other day; how can he love me? Then he explained the stories when he saw me occasionally, and he loved my personality. My mother was highly impressed as well. He walked away like a winner.

The meeting was finally over. I yawned as I turned to my mother. “What now, mother? Do we choose now or wait for a little longer?” I asked.

“The ball is in three days and two months for your coronation. We must pick at least five nobles by the end of the day. On the day of the ball is when the winner is announced. That will give you time to know the person before your important day.”

“How am I supposed to fall in love within two months?? It’s impossible.” I whined and sat back on my throne.

“You are not supposed to fall in love. Once we pick, that is your partner. It doesn’t matter if you hate them. Those are the laws, my sweetheart.”

I was distraught once that person was picked. They will be my bride or groom. But they won’t be for long. I will make sure of that. I agreed with my mother and walked out of the room. As I got to my bed, I plopped down to rest. Mikhal and Drew sat next to me.

“Remember what Lady Yuli said, your highness. It shouldn’t matter who the queen picks.” Mikhal mentioned.

“That’s right, my lady, after the wedding, drops them like a hot tamale. You are the rightful ruler of this kingdom; they are just there,” Drew said with a smile. I should have Drew around often; I probably stole him from my brother. Speaking of my brother, he came in sniffling.

“Dear sister, can I have Drew back, please,” he said with puppy dog eyes.

“Drew has his orders. He is supposed to be with me, Jabrel. You can have him tomorrow.” I teased him.

It was dull without his servant around. He needed someone to help him with things too. The other servants need to figure out what to do. My brother began to beg and got on his knees. “Please, Mia!!” Laughing at his cuteness. I told Drew he was dismissed for today. Mikhal can handle me by himself. Bowing, he left to help Jabrel up. When they left, another knock was added to the door. Mikhal went to open it.

“Lady Mia, you have a letter from the queen. Here are the people who have been chosen.” The messenger bowed and handed him the list.

We thanked the messenger and closed the door. He sat back down and read the list. Sir Mark, Lord Mattew, Lady Mari, Sir Felix, and Lord Anisel. Those were the five that were chosen. It was a good pick, to be honest. A huge smile came to my face because I knew one was a really good friend. But on the inside, my heart raced, and my anxiety shot to the roof. Why is Anisel always making me nervous???