Secret: A Selection Story

Secret: America

The days seemed to drain on. I was used to being worked to the bone, but not like this. The kitchen was greasy and muddy, and the smell of garbage often permeated the air. 

I had basically disappeared frp, the face of the earth. Maxon hadn't forgiven me, although he couldn't just stand by while I was thrown into Panama. 

After we had been caned, Aspen had confessed that he hadn't loved me, and that he was in love with one of my old maids. Lucy had initially refused, as it would mean that she was unfaithful. But she then succumbed to Aspenś charm and wit, and they had a small, but festive wedding. 

Now I was alone. Scared. 

I had heard that Marlee had become Queen. I was ecstatic. She would make a wonderful Queen. However, she was always distracted during the Report. SHe always glanced off to the distance, usually the hallway. AFter the Report, then she would scurry outside of the Great Room, and stay there for a period of 30 minutes. 

i snapped out of my trance and thoughts after the lock snapped on the front door. I grabbed the broken broom stick and pointed at the intruder. 

She lowered her hood. 

I rushed forward. 

She froze. Obviously she couldn't recognize me through the dirt and the grime. I wiped my face with a nearby tissue. Her face lit up. 

"America!" she rushed forward. We embraced. Then she huffed and sat down on my itchy, scratchy bed. 

"America, I have a problem."

I grabbed her hand, and she held it tight. 

She smiled somberly.

"I'm in love, America."

I giggled. "Of course you are! You're with Maxon."

 "No!"she protested. 

I shut up. 

"I'm in. love with-"  she nearly finished when the door creaked open.

Maxon's blonde hair swished around the edge of the door. 

"Marlee! Hide!" 

I pushed her inside inside a small closet.