The Crowns Choice

❦ Chapter Twenty-Nine: Charlotte ❦

The dress is a deep blue, the colour of twilight just before the last bit of light fades. It's simple but elegant, with delicate embroidery along the hem that reminds me of the stars I used to wish on as a little girl. As I stand in front of the mirror, I can't help but trace the neckline with my fingers, feeling the weight of the moment. This isn't just a dress—it's a statement. A symbol of unity, of resilience. Of mourning.

"Do you think it's too much?" I ask, turning slightly to look at the maid as she fusses over the last-minute adjustments.

"Not at all, Your Highness," she replies, her voice gentle yet firm. "It's perfect for the occasion. The Crown's Circle will compliment you beautifully."

I nod, taking a deep breath. I need to stay focused. Tonight isn't just about me; it's about the people, about showing them that even in the face of tragedy, we won't falter. But underneath it all, I'm nervous. There's a part of me that's been chipped away, that feels more fragile than I'd like to admit. Jasper's death is still a fresh wound, and the thought of facing the world tonight with that lingering in the back of my mind—it's overwhelming.

But I have to do this. I have to keep going. For everyone's sake.

As I make my way to the interview set, the corridors seem longer, the walls closing in just a little more than usual. I try to shake off the feeling, focusing on the task ahead. Duncan Fairchild will be there, ready to grill me with his usual charm and quick wit. The boys will be watching, and so will the entire kingdom.

The set is a grand, elegant space, with plush chairs arranged in a semi-circle around a gleaming coffee table. The lighting is warm, creating an intimate atmosphere, despite the tension in the air. Duncan greets me with a warm smile as I enter, his eyes twinkling with the same mischievousness that makes him so popular with the viewers.

"Your Highness," he says with a slight bow. "You look stunning as always."

"Thank you, Duncan," I reply, trying to match his easy demeanour. "I'm ready for whatever you've got for me."

He chuckles, motioning for me to take a seat. "I'm sure you are. But first, let's address the elephant in the room."

I know what's coming, but it still stings when he brings up Jasper. I try to keep my expression neutral, but I can feel the edges of my mask slipping.

"I'd like to start by offering my condolences," Duncan says, his voice dropping to a more serious tone. "Jasper was... an interesting character, to say the least, but his loss is still a tragedy."

I nod, swallowing the lump in my throat. "Thank you, Duncan. His death was a shock to all of us. He may have had his flaws, but he didn't deserve to die that way."

There's a brief pause, and I can see Duncan weighing his next words carefully. "It's a difficult time for everyone, but the show must go on, as they say. Tonight, we'll focus on the remaining contestants. I know the people are eager to hear your thoughts on the gentlemen who are still in the running."

I can't help but let out a small laugh, despite the heaviness in the room. "I'm sure they are."

Duncan leans forward slightly, a conspiratorial gleam in his eye. "So, Charlotte, between us—who's been the biggest surprise for you?"

I smile, considering my answer. "They've all surprised me in different ways. Jameson, for instance, has this quiet strength that I didn't expect. He's steady, reliable, and has a way of making you feel safe."

Duncan nods, jotting down notes as I speak. "And what about Alexander?"

"Alexander," I say, my voice softening slightly as I think of him. "He's passionate, driven. There's a fire in him that's both intimidating and captivating. He challenges me, but in a way that makes me want to be better."

Duncan raises an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Interesting. And Atlas?"

I pause for a moment, careful with my words. "Atlas is... complicated. He has this charm, this confidence that draws people in. But there's also a vulnerability beneath it all, a side of him that he doesn't show to many."

Duncan chuckles, his curiosity piqued. "You know, I've been hearing some whispers, Your Highness. Apparently, there's a certain 'pompous ass' among the gentlemen. Care to share who might have earned that title?"

I can't help the small smile that tugs at my lips. "I've been known to be called a 'pompous ass' when meeting one of the young gentlemen," I say, carefully not revealing that it's Atlas I'm referring to. "But I think that speaks more to the strong personalities we have in the Circle. They're all passionate, driven, and they've each brought something unique to this experience."

Duncan laughs, leaning back in his chair. "Now, now, Charlotte. You can't just drop a hint like that and not give us more. Who do you think has the guts to call you that?"

I laugh, shaking my head. "If I told you that, where would the fun be? Let's just say it's someone who isn't afraid to speak their mind."

He grins, clearly enjoying the game. "I have my suspicions. But let's move on. What about Oliver? He's got quite the fanbase."

I nod, thinking of Oliver's infectious energy. "Oliver is a joy to be around. He's always smiling, always finding the bright side of things. But there's also a depth to him, a thoughtfulness that I've come to appreciate."

Duncan scribbles another note. "And Sebastian? He's a bit of a mystery to the audience."

"Sebastian is quiet, but there's a lot going on beneath the surface. He's observant, always taking in everything around him. He's the kind of person who doesn't say much, but when he does, it's worth listening to."

Duncan looks over his notes, then back at me with a satisfied smile. "It sounds like you've got quite the group on your hands. But I have to ask—do you have a favourite?"

I hesitated, knowing this question was coming but still caught off guard. "It's hard to say. They all have qualities that I admire, and each of them has made an impact on me in different ways. I think, at the end of the day, it's going to come down to more than just who's my favourite. It's about who I can see standing beside me as we move forward."

Duncan leans in, lowering his voice as if sharing a secret. "You know, the people have their opinions too. I've seen the polls, and let's just say you've got some clear front-runners. Would you like to know who the people are rooting for?"

My heart skips a beat at his words. "I'm curious."

He grins, pulling out a small card from his jacket pocket. "According to the latest polls, the top three are Atlas, Jameson, and Oliver. But I have to say, the margins are closer than you'd think. It seems like the people are just as torn as you are."

I nod, digesting the information. Atlas, Jameson, and Oliver. It's not surprising, but hearing it out loud makes it feel more real. The people have their favourites, and they're watching my every move.

Duncan tucks the card back into his pocket, his expression softening. "Charlotte, I know this isn't easy. You're under a lot of pressure, and the stakes are higher than ever. But from what I've seen tonight, you're handling it with grace. Whatever happens, I know you'll make the right choice."

"Thank you, Duncan," I reply, my voice steady but my mind still swirling with thoughts. "That means a lot."

He smiles warmly, then straightens up, ready to move on to the final part of the interview. "Alright, enough about you. Let's put the boys to the test, shall we?"

I nod, grateful for the shift in focus. It's time for them to face the heat. I've done my part—now it's their turn. And as the cameras roll, I can't help but feel a mix of anticipation and dread for what's to come.