Break My Heart a Thousand Times (The Selection Series Story)

Chapter I: "Sentimental"

Chapter One

To Ms. America Singer,

We were happy to receive a letter recommending you as a maid since the palace is in need of more help due to our Majesty Queen Kriss being ill. We are even happier to say that we have found a spot for you, and we will expect you to arrive at the airport on March 12 at 1: oo pm. On arrival at the Palace, Ms. Mallory, a fellow Maid, will be waiting to help you get settled. Everything you need will be provided at the palace. If you would prefer to bring some personal items, please limit to one (small) bag.

Thank you for thinking of Illea Palace as a place to live out your career.

Sincerely, Head Maid Chelsey

I blinked.

I couldn't believe how lucky I was. A job at the palace was one of the best for a Six, and I had been itching to leave Carolina ever since Aspen died. It would hurt to leave my family and my daughter, but this small town was reminded me of Aspen constantly. I needed to start over, and if that meant traveling to the other side of the country to work in a place I have never visited, then so be it.

I smiled. After reading the letter, I had instantly remembered why I had received this letter in the first place, and when all this had started...

---

"America!" someone hissed next to me. I startled, then looked to my right. Lou was looking at me, concerned, but before she could say anything a voice snapped at both us.

"LADIES! I don't think you're paid to just chit chat!" I didn't look up from kneeling on the ground, but I recognized the angry tone and harsh voice of our superior maid. I started scrubbing the floor again with earnest, along with Lou, and eventually Gertrude moved on to pick on other maids.

Lou sighed. "Better be careful, Mer," she whispered breathlessly as she scrubbed at a spot on the marble floor. My heart panged with the familiar nickname. "Next time Gertrude won't let us off easy."

I closed my eyes for a moment, dunking my sponge into a bucket of dirty, soapy water next to me. "Sorry, I got... distracted." I took a deep breath, willing myself not to start crying from just remembering Aspen.

Lou made a doubtful noise in the back of her throat. I looked over in time to see a small smile on her face as she shook her head slightly. "Are you sure you're okay? You've been acting a little... off."

I scrunched my nose up uncomfortably. While Lou was really nice and one of my few friends at my job, I still felt uncomfortable with sharing personal information. Before I could respond, she snapped her fingers in front of my face, and I jumped in reaction.
I shot her a sheepish look. "What was that for?" I gawked awkwardly, my hand still in the bucket of murky water.
Lou rolled her eyes and nudged me softly. "Gertrude is going to return any minute." She sighed. "Mer, you deserve better than this. You deserve more than whatever you have right now." Her tone was soft, and it relaxed me. But I was confused by her words. Where did all this come from?
"Look, America, I have an aunt that can get you away from Carolina." She said this as if it was a big secret, and I smiled. Lou was always one for the dramatics. "Away from whatever's been bugging you here," Lou continued. "I've already gotten a spot at the Palace where my Aunt Chelsey is the head maid there, and I can bring you along with me." Lou implied. I nodded, trying to make it seem as if I was working.
"I'll send word to you as a recommendation, but I'm not sure when you'll get the letter of acceptance. Since the Palace is short on staff, I'd bet they'd accept you as fast as lightning strikes." Lou huffed, scrubbing the floor even harder than before.