Life Without the Selection

Chapter 4

The rest of the night was mostly a blur. After hearing the fact that Aspen was selected, I didn't pay attention to the other announcements of the selected. I stayed in my bedroom and I didn't even realize May sneaked in and hugged me before she went to bed. I knew that we would meet in the treehouse so I went out earlier than usual. Tonight, there was an odd breeze, but my insides felt hollow. After a long while of waiting, Aspen came in. I ran towards him and hugged him. We hugged for a long time and I didn't want to let go. We didn't talk much since there was none to talk about.

"You didn't get selected."

I realized right after he said that, it was true. I didn't get selected, just like I thought.

"Yes, thankfully," I said quietly. He touched my chin with his fingertips. He pulled up my face so that it was level with his.

"Mer, you know I didn't want to do this but it was for my family. Do you know how much I'm getting by just being a selected," he explained.

"I know, I know. I guess I'm selfish just because I want you for me and me only," I complained.

"Mer, you know I don't want to leave you either." I started crying and he wiped my tears. He pressed a kiss on my forehead. This was the last night before I see him again, and I don't know when that would be.

"You know I leave tomorrow," he said.

I nodded slowly.

"I'll send you letters, I promise. I love you Mer, don't forget that," he said quietly. I looked up at him and hugged him once more.

I didn't talk much for a few days, weeks. I don't know what day it is. Aspen left and I was alone. I heard about the Selection gossip. I hear Aspen made an impression on Hermia. He wrote me a letter that I don't know whether I want to burn it or hold on to it forever.

Dear Mer,
It has been over two weeks. I miss you so much already. There has been a lot going on here in the palace. I guess you've heard from others. Mer, I don't know how to say this, but I think it's time you moved on. I think I really like Hermia and she likes me. Mer, I'll never stop loving you and don't forget that. But I don't think we were meant to be. Find a boy who will love you like I do. If I eventually come home, we can still be the best of friends, don't you forget that.
Sincerely,
Aspen

I couldn't think of moving on. But if Aspen is in love with someone else, then I will find someone.