The Second Choice: The Selection Series

Second First Date

Spending time with America after being away for so long made me realize why I love her so much and how badly I need her.
Our second first date was truly magical in its own way.
Now that we've finished dinner I have to go on another date with a different girl. The only girl I really want to go with is America, but to make my dad happy I'll have to go with someone else. And there's only one person he really wants me to be with.
"Are you ready, Daphne?" I ask, holding out my arm.
She takes it excited and smiles big. "Of course I am."
I can already tell how fun this is going to be.
We walk together silently to the horses.
I help her get on one of the extra horses before mounting my own.
"I've missed you so much Maxon," she informs me.
"You have?"
"Of course. I was so sad when you told me you had to do the selection. But I knew you'd find a way for us to be together. You're so smart. I knew you really loved me."
Right. This was totally my idea.
"Soon enough we can get married and have kids," she dreams.
"Daphne, aren't you thinking a little too far ahead? I haven't even made my decision yet."
"I'm just planning all of the good things we'll do together. You know, you could always announce that you're choosing me early."
"I haven't decided who I'm choosing yet."
"You're so funny Maxon. That's something I love about you."
I sigh and shake my head.
There's no changing her mind on this.
"Your father was so welcoming, especially to me," she brings up.
"I bet he was."
"I'm always treated so well when I come here."
"You're a valued guest."
"I can't wait until I can call this beautiful place my home. My kingdom."
"Daphne. I have not made my choice. I want that to be clear."
"You can't be serious."
"I am."
"But I'm your best option."
"I don't know that. And again, I have not made my decision."
She huffs and crosses her arms.
I sigh.
"Let's just finish our ride."
"Fine."
As soon as we get off the horses Daphne storms  inside.
I don't think she was very pleased with our discussion.
I sigh and follow her.
America and Celeste just happen to be walking down the hall at just the right time to witness Daphne's fit as she stomps to her room.
She slams her door before they look at me and start laughing.
"Thank you for your support ladies," I appreciate.
"You're doing a really good job on these dates," America says sarcastically.
"Hey. Ours was good."
"It was ok. I wouldn't have called it good."
Celeste looks between us smiling.
"I guess I'll have to do better next time," I promise.
"I look forward to it," she replies.
She smiles a bit at me and leaves with Celeste.
Maybe going on that date wasn't such a bad thing after all.