The Elite (The Selection #2)

by Kiera Cass

I reminded myself that it was my decision to be here. Aspen may have asked, and my mother may have pushed, but no one forced me to fill out the form for the Selection.

I hated that she wanted the position with none of the responsibility. I’d make a better princess than she would, I thought. And in that moment I realized there was some truth to that. I didn’t have her connections or Kriss’s poise, but at least I cared. And wasn’t that worth something?

“I would have thought that you’d have the easiest time. You’ve seen more hardships in your life than the other four combined.” “Exactly, but I’ve never known how to change any of it. That’s the problem.”

I’m a Three now. And you’re a Two. Instead of being bitter about what we were handed, why can’t you see the chance you have? You can change your family’s life. You could probably change lots of lives. And all you want to do is settle the score. That’s not going to get anyone anywhere.”

“You were my pick. My only pick.

Lord knows what would happen to the country with you at the helm.” I laughed along because he was right. “I’d probably ruin it.” Maxon continued to smile when he spoke. “But maybe it needs ruining.”

“You would stay here as a member of the Selection and still be a part of the competition, but things will be different. My father will probably be harsh toward you and do whatever he can to make you fail. I think there are some ways to fight that, but it will take time. You know how ruthless he is. You have to prepare yourself.” I nodded. “I think I can do that.” “There’s more.” Maxon looked to the carpet, trying to align his thoughts. “America, there’s no question that you’ve had my heart from the beginning. By now you have to know that.” When he brought his eyes up to mine, I could see it in every part of him and feel it in every piece of me. “I do.” “But what you do not have right now is my trust.” I was stricken. “What?” “I’ve shown you so many of my secrets, defended you in every way I can. But when you aren’t pleased with me, you act rashly. You shut me out, blame me, or, most impressively, try to change the entire country.” Ouch. That was pretty rough. “I need to know that I can depend on you. I need to know that you can keep my secrets, trust my judgment, and not hold things back from me. I need you to be completely honest with me and to stop questioning every decision I make. I need you to have faith in me, America.”

“If she’s going to win, we need a plan.” Her smile was diabolical, and I grinned with her. I’d never met anyone as organized as these girls. If I had them, there was no way I could lose.