The Prince (Maxon's Selection POV)

Chapter Twelve

"Maxon... I'm sorry." America said, later in the hall.

I paused, what was she sorry for? Did I do something wrong? "What's wrong, America?" I asked, bracing myself.

"I'm having a hard time dealing with how I am feeling." she said.

I started to panic, did she regret our kiss? Did she regret everything she said?

"It isn't you!" she said quickly, noticing my expression,"It's... him."

I relaxed a little, but I was skeptical.

"I would appreciate if you could not kiss me until I am more certain of my feelings." America said, turning away from me.

I nodded, but I was hurt. "Is there something I could give you to help?" I asked. I wanted to help her in any way I could.

She thought for a second, "Give me time, that is all I ask. I need to sort my feelings."

I nodded again and grabbed her hand, giving it a light kiss. "Is this ok?" I whispered.

Slowly she nodded, but pulled her hand away.

I put my hands behind my back, "Well, I will see you at dinner."

I turned to leave, but America grabbed my arm. "Thank you, Maxon. Thank you for understanding."

I gave her a tiny smile, and nodded. She let go of my arm and I walked down the hall. The second I rounded the corner, I ran my hands through my hair. I didn't quite believe that I wasn't at least partially the reason for America's confusion. But the best I could do, if I wanted her to run into my arms, was to give her time, like she asked. I sighed, this would be an interesting dinner.

---

Across the dinning hall, Lady Mikaela burst into tears. I stood from my chair and escorted her from the room, patting her shoulder. When we were outside the dinning hall, I turned toward her.

"What is wrong, my dear?" I asked softly.

"I'm just homesick, your highness. I miss Calgary and my family so much. I have never been so far away from them for such a long period of time, you know?" Mikaela sobbed into her hands.

"Would you like me to send you back to your family, then?" I asked.

She looked up, "Would you do that? Isn't against the rules?"

I laughed. I had already broken so many rules. Why did it matter if I broke this one? "I assure you, it can be done."

"Ok, then. As long as we won't get in trouble," Mikaela said.

"Why don't you head to your room, and pack up. I will arrange a car to pick you up and drive you to the airport." I said.

"Thank you, Maxon! I wish you the best of luck on choosing a wife. I am sure you will make a good choice," Mikaela smiled.

"Thank you. And I wish you all the best in life. It was a pleasure meeting you," I replied.

Mikaela curtseyed and walked down the hall. I wasn't too bothered on eliminating Mikaela. Sure she was a nice girl, but I felt no connection, unlike with others.