by Caroline Wei
I knelt and promised to take care of two countries, one that I was born in and one that I had come to love, both close to my heart. Yale did the same, and then it was Malchin’s turn. I risked a look at my best friend and wanted to cry at how beautiful and fitting she looked, Oliver’s crown on her hair.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” the officiant boomed. “May I present, the new Queen Yale Azure of Caesitas!” I cheered along with everyone else as Yale dipped a low curtsy, the best I’d ever seen her do.
“And presenting, King Malchin Rednic and his wife, Queen Alle Rednic, of Rubrum and Niveus!”
Just like the Milky Way isn’t quite enough to hold all the stars in the sky, happily ever after wasn’t quite big enough to hold the life that was waiting for us.
So I just watched as the universe spilled into the room and lit up the world.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Well, here we are.
I have to say, that was one impressively long ride.
Throughout all the fender benders and potholes, though, I have so much to be grateful for.
First, to God, for making everything possible and always being there for me. All the glory goes to You. You are steadfast and full of lovingkindness, something that never changes no matter what else does in my life.
Mr. Benjamin Humeniuk—thank you thank you thank you. You are an outstanding human and I so admire the genuine thought and passion you put in your work. Without you, this book wouldn’t be the same.
To Ms. Charity Hughes, you are such an encourager. Thank you so much for your sincerity, support, and kindness.
Stephanie Tang, Jackie Wang, Laura Kilgore, your insight was so valuable. Many thanks.
For my friends, who give me sunshine. To the numerous authors who have influenced me throughout my life and showed me what it meant to move and be moved, including Kiera Cass, Tahereh Mafi, and many, many more. Thank you.
And of course, to my family. My mother, my father, for guiding me and strengthening me. Nathan, who is my constant partner in crime and occasionally my arch nemesis. You’re the bison to my Yellowstone.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Caroline Wei is a teen author who is more than excited to present her first published novel. She loves reading and writing with a passion and hasn't been able to be unglued from words and paper since she was small. Typically, Caroline can be found in Texas, in bed, or in a magical portal to another world, whichever is more convenient.
Connect with her on Instagram @carolinelwei.