The Choice To Be Chosen (Book 1 of the CTBC Series)

Chapter 6

I slept after letting my anger out through muffled screams into my pillows. It was most likely the best, most relaxing sleep Ive ever had. When I woke up, It was 3 in the morning. Everyone was asleep, but the lights in the kitchen were on. I snuck down as quietly as I could, trying not to wake anyone, and on the table waiting for me was a plate of chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and fruit all sitting beside an empty glass and a small note with my name on it. I walked over and plop a piece of fruit, a candy-like strawberry, into my mouth, then unfold the perfect crease.

Bray,
Knowing you, you will probably wake up in the middle of the night, you didn't eat before you fell asleep. Im so proud of you for doing this, going to the palace, all for us. Honestly it isn't right, you're young, you haven't loved yet, you should deserve to live your own life and fall in love for yourself, not for all of us. Yes I know I cant stop you, but Im your big sister, and all I can hope for is that someday you will find true happiness and love again. You of all people really deserve it. Anyways, enjoy your dinner little sis.
XOXO
~Clarissa

I felt the smile on my lips as my eyes read over the note. I finished my food quickly, but still took time to savor each and every bite of it. After I cleaned my plate and finished the glass of water I poured myself, I quietly crept up back to bed. Slowly, I fell asleep again, although I knew it wouldn't last long, morning was only 2 hours away. But I slept anyways, I needed it, tomorrow would be a dreadfully busy day.

"Wake up, Princess. You need to pack." I heard the hoarse voice of my father as I tried to open my eyes. He sat at the foot of my bed as he always did when I was waking up. I sat up, knowing he wouldn't move until I did.

"Morning Father," I mumble in my half-asleep voice. He smiles and kisses my cheek before standing.

"Ready for today? I got your schedule 15 minutes ago, urgent mail from the palace. You have until 10 to pack a few valuables. But no clothing, except for under garments of corse, but apparently everything will be provided." My father rambles on as he looks at the pictures on my desk.

"Clarissa can help you get dressed and tell you everything else." he walks over to me, "Im so proud of you for doing this Bray." he smiles, the wrinkles in his face pulling together.

"I love you guys, its the most I can do." I kiss him on the cheek before he nods, leaving me to pack.

I look around a bit, trying to decide on what to bring. I decide to go with a few of my things from mother.
A silver mirror engraved with the letter R, Several picture frames of me and my family, my three favorite books, as well as some of my absolute favorite jewelry. Though I put my mint rose earrings in my ears as always. I grab my brush, that matches the mirror, and tame my wild brown hair before placing it in the bag as well. I grab my journal and a pen and throw that in as well. After I pack those things I go to the bathroom to brush my teeth.

I run into Clarissa, doing her makeup inches from the mirror. I join at her side and turn on the water. She stops to smile at me before returning to her eye lashes, darkening them with every stroke. I begin to scrub at my teeth.

"Nervous? Or excited?" She says closing the bottle of mascara.

"Both" I say, though its a little mumbled because of my toothbrush.

"You have to wear certain clothes, and your province flower." She says pulling out some blush. I spit and rinse my mouth.

"A rose?" I ask looking for my face cleaner.

"Mhm, oh! And everyone in the family has gifts for you."

"Gifts? Oh no I didnt need anything, Im going to be spoiled a whole lot more when I leave." She rolls her eyes before finishing and going to my room to pick my clothes. I follow behind her shortly after.