The Elite: Maxon POV

Chapter 5

The night of the Halloween party was near and I was incredibly nervous to meet all the families, especially the Singers. I wanted America to be mine forever and I was prepared to take her hand as soon as she was sure, but I also wanted to get permission from her father. On the day of the meet and greet, all the Ladies ran to their families as a rush of excitement filled the room. I spoke with all of them for a minute or two. America's family was just has she had described to me, minus her brother Kota and her pregnant sister. As soon as she saw them, she broke into a smile that never left her face. Elise's family was...rigid much like her. Her brothers stood and spoke like soldiers, practically emotionless too. I couldn't help but notice that one of them was slightly more protective of her, like he had witnessed her getting hurt before and would do anything to stop it.

Later that day after I had briefly spoken with all the families, I decided it would be a good time to talk to Mr. Singer. While in the Gentlemen's room smoking cigars, I asked him to speak with me out in the gardens.

"Mr. Singer, firstly I would like to commend you for raising a wonderful woman like America. She has become someone I admire with deep affection."

"Thank you." He paused for a moment as if thinking about whether he should speak or not.

"If you have any concerns or anything you would like to ask, please do."

"What are you intentions for my daughter?" He said. He stopped walking and turned toward me. Although his eyes were soft, he stood straighter and fixed his eyes on me in an intimidating way. I took a deep breath. Here goes nothing.

"Mr. Singer, part of the reason I brought you out here was to speak to you about that. America doesn't yet know this for sure, but I intend to marry that woman. I can't think of anyone I've ever met or ever could meet that could make me feel the way she does."

"And what is that feeling?"

I hesitated. I knew that America and her father were close and I didn't want her to fully know my intentions until she was sure her feelings for me were grounded. I sighed. "Loved. She makes me feel loved and wanted and above all else, happy. The thought of a life without her makes my heart physically ache," I admitted. Her father smiled at me. "I wanted to ask for your blessing. Should America reveal that she too would love to marry me, I want to know that you approve." I gulped and awaited his answer. He paused, and then held out his hand.

"Nothing would make me happier, Your Highness." I took his hand and shook it eagerly and sighed with relief. As we made out way back to the palace, Mr. Singer slapped me on the back and threw his arm around me which caught me by surprise, but made me smile nonetheless.