The Crown

How it began - chapter 1

I pinch my nose at the smell of burning meat. "Howie!", I shout, angry that he spoiled another steak. "Sorry Claire, it was an accident! Honest!", he says, cringing slightly. "It's okay, just don't to it next time.", I say, trying to be nicer.

I walk towards my station in the small kitchen, rubbing my hands on my apron. I work at a run down cafe in the suburbs of Likely. Me, my dad, and 4 brothers of varying ages are a poor family of fours. I do what I can around the kitchen to scrounge up money for our large family.

I sigh and take out the large stew, simmering on a pot. As soon as I deliver this my shift will end. The soup sloshes around in the bowls I carry towards the waiting line of customers. I nod at a few regulars I know and stop at the table of the lady who ordered stew.

I give a tiny smile, trying to be polite. "Here is you're food.", I place the bowl in front of her. "Enjoy.", I say and start walking back to the kitchen when the lady taps me on the back. I turn around, ready to tell her what the specials are or compliments to the chef. But instead she drops a crisp ten dollar bill into my hand. I smile widely at her and walk back to the kitchen.

I grin as I untie the apron from my waist, hanging it up on a rack. I can't wait to tell my dad about all the tips I earned today. I grab my jacket from the hook beside my apron. I quickly put it on, wave goodbye to a few of my close friends at the cafe, than rush outside into the fresh air.

I breathe deeply and smile at the sight of the yellow light in the late afternoon. I replace the work flats that I use with worn sneakers. I start walking toward the small apartment where we live. The building is messy and small, but when we open up the curtains it's okay. I slide my key into the lock and hear the click that means it worked. My brothers talk loudly as they sit on the couch, watching a small tv.

My father comes up to hug me and I grin at him, placing in his hand the fifty dollars I earned in tips. He smiles and hugs me again. "We have a surprise for you.", he says, motioning towards a letter on the table. I walk over to it slowly. The official Illèa seal is stamped on top. I look to my dad and he gives me a nod.

I break the seal with my fingernail and clear my throat loudly. This got my brother's attention. "Dear current resident of 235, Madison point. Likely, Illèa.", the letter read. "We have been informed that a young lady aged 16 to 20 currently resides at you're household. An opportunity to represent our amazing country Illèa has been presented. Our beloved Prince Adam has come of age and will be searching for a wife. Please fill out this form attached in hopes of being selected. Thank you very much.", I stop and take a breath.

My brothers stare at me and my father smiles. "Would you like to enter Claire? It's up to you.", he says softly. "I, uh...I have to think about it.", I say. "Take you're time", he says. I smile at him and shoot a smug glance at my brothers. A few of them stick their tongues out at me.

I pace my room, unsure of wether or not to enter. I yawn a bit but continue walking around my small bedroom. I finally throw the letter onto my desk and and lay down on my bed. Staring at the ceiling.