The Selection (YouTube edition)

Chapter 2

After Mom left dinner, we just sat and ate in silence. I knew money was tight, and if I went into The Selection my family would receive a weekly paycheck, which could really help us. Since we are fives, we're pretty much three steps up from being homeless. Me and Mom were the only ones with musical talent in the family. I could sing, play the piano, and play the violin. Mom can sing, play the piano, and play the clarinet. Dad and Rachael have artistic talent, selling pieces whenever they can to get us money. George still isn't sure what career he wants to pursue, but as a five, art and music are our only options. That's how it is in the casts, you caste determined your career. That kinda sucks. After we finished up dinner, Dad and I cleaned up the kitchen. "Dad, are you mad at me for not wanting to enter The Selection?" I asked awkwardly. "No Adam." He replied. "I understand completely. You don't even know Alesa personally. I understand you want to meet someone who you could relate to." "I also don't think I would be cut out for royalty." I said awkwardly. "I understand son." My dad says smiling. "Your mom is just trying to do what is best for you, yes it's a little messed up, but it means she cares for you Adam. Just, maybe hear her out at least." He said winking, obviously knowing something I didn't. Dad and I just chatted while we finished up cleaning the kitchen. Then I went to my room to wait. You may be thinking, "What are you waiting for?" Again, patience. That is key in a story like this. I was just chilling in my bed, waiting for midnight to come around. Hmm, did that partially answer your question? Good. Anyway, around 11:30 my mom comes in. I pretend to be asleep, lying in bed. It works, she come and sits on my bed. She gently "wakes" me up. I get up, faking a yawn. "What's up mom?" I fake yawned again. "Well Adam, I understand you don't want to be a part of The Selection, but if you would at least try out, I would have something very promising to give you." "Mom, like millions of guys are going to be in The Selection. I can't make them pick me." "True." She said. "But if you would at least fill out the form to send in, I would let you keep half the income you earn from whatever work you do." My eyes practically bulged out of my head. "Mom, are you serious!?!" I said in awe. She smiled. This was her plan. The sneaky little... "I accept!" I said cheerfully. "I can't make them choose me though." I reminded her. Mom nodded. "I know sweetie. Good night!" She walked out of my room. I couldn't believe it. All I had to do was fill out a stupid form, and bam, I get to keep half my income. This was exciting news. I looked at my clock. Eh, it was close enough to midnight. I made sure my parents wouldn't hear me, I opened my window, and jumped out. Woah chill, we have a one story house. Not like we could afford a two story anyway. I slowly snuck into the treehouse of my front yard, and waited. I couldn't wait to see her. I was antsy thinking about it. After a few minutes, I hear rustling, and she pops on in. "Hey Adam." She smiles sweetly. I flash a grin back. "Hey gorgeous."