ROYAL SELECTION

Katherine's eyes snapped open, her face contorted in terror. She screamed, her voice piercing the night air, as sweat dripped from her brow.

Her parents, Mr.and Mrs.Noah, rushed into her room, concern etched on their faces.

Mrs.Noah's eyes widened with worry as she enveloped Katherine in a warm hug. "Sweetie, what's wrong?" she muttered, her voice soft and warming.

Katherine's body shook uncontrollably, her eyes wild with fear.

Mr. Noah's brow furrowed, his voice firm but gentle. "Speak, baby. What happened?"

Just then, Diana and Stella, Katherine's step-sisters, strolled into the room, their faces twisted in annoyance.

Diana's lips curled into a scowl. "Can't someone have their beauty sleep in this house anymore?" she complained, her voice laced with sarcasm.

Stella's eyes rolled heavenward. "Must we have this kind of night every day? Can't she just sleep without having nightmares?"

Mrs. Noah's expression turned stern, her eyes flashing with warning. "That's enough, girls," she chastised, her voice firm. "Your sister needs our support, not your criticism."

Diana and Stella exchanged a sullen glance before stomping out of the room.

Mrs. Noah's expression softened as she cradled Katherine's trembling form. "Shh, baby. We're here for you."

Katherine's gaze locked onto her parents', her eyes brimming with tears.

Mr.Noah's brow furrowed with concern, his eyes locked onto Katherine's trembling form. "Katherine, what did you see?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Katherine's eyes welled up with tears, her voice stuttering. "I...I saw him again, h...he was drowning."

Diana's expression twisted into a scowl, her eyes rolling heavenward. She let out a dramatic sigh, her shoulders sagging.

Stella's face contorted in frustration, her lips pursed. "What's with you and this mysterious guy in your dreams?" she snapped, her voice laced with annoyance. "Why does he have to be the one you keep dreaming about? You haven't told us what you're hiding."

Mrs. Noah's gaze turned icy, her eyes flashing with warning as she stared down Stella. Her expression softened as she cradled Katherine closer, her voice a soothing whisper. "Shh, baby. Don't mind your sisters. We're here for you."

Katherine's face buried in her mother's shoulder, her body shaking with sobs.

Diana's expression remained unyielding, her arms crossed. Stella's scowl deepened, her eyes narrowing at Katherine.

Mr. Noah's jaw clenched, his eyes stern. "That's enough, Stella," he warned, his voice firm

Mrs. Amma's eyes filled with concern, her brow furrowed. "Do you know who he is?" she asked, her voice soft.

Katherine's head rolled weakly on her mother's shoulder, her eyes closed. "I don't know, Mom... his face is blurry... I don't know who he is."

Diana's expression turned dismissive, her lips curling into a smirk. "He's no one, just your imagination," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I've warned you countless times to stop watching all those movies you see online, but you'll never listen."

Stella's face mirrored Diana's disdain, her eyes rolling heavenward. "Let this be the first and last time you wake us up from sleep because of your silly nightmares," she hissed, her voice venomous. "I have to wake up early tomorrow for work."

With a shared glance of annoyance, Diana and Stella turned to leave. Stella's door slammed shut behind them, echoing through the silent hallway.

Mrs. Amma's gaze followed her departing daughters, a mixture of disappointment and worry etched on her face. She cradled Katherine closer, her expression softening.

Katherine's eyes remained closed, her body still shuddering with sobs.

Mr. Noah's jaw clenched, his eyes narrowing in disapproval, but he remained silent, letting his wife comfort their distressed daughter.

Mrs. Amma's face radiated warmth and comfort, her eyes filled with empathy. "Come on now, sweetie, go back to sleep, you know you have a big day ahead tomorrow."

Katherine's eyes pleaded, her voice trembling. "I don't want to sleep alone, Mom, it's scary."

Mrs. Amma's expression softened further, her lips curving into a gentle smile. "Alright, I'll sleep next to you until you fall asleep."

Mr. Noah's eyes, filled with understanding, met his wife's before he nodded and quietly exited the room, leaving the two alone.

Mrs. Amma slid into bed beside Katherine, enveloping her in a warm hug. Katherine snuggled deeper into her mother's embrace.

As Mrs. Amma's hands stroked Katherine's hair, her face relaxed, her eyelids fluttering shut. Her breathing slowed, and her body surrendered to sleep.

Mrs. Amma's gaze lingered on her daughter's peaceful face, her eyes shining with love and protection. She gently kissed Katherine's forehead.

The room settled into a serene silence, the only sound Katherine's gentle snores and the soft beat of her mother's heart.

Mrs. Amma's eyes drifted closed, a gentle smile still on her lips, as she cradled her daughter, keeping the darkness at bay.

.

.

.Mr. Noah, a well-known businessman who deals in wines, was married to two wives, Kate and Amma. He had two kids with each of them. Kate birthed two kids; a boy, Tony, and a girl, Katherine. Amma had two daughters, Stella and Diana.

Amma, being the first wife, was married to Noah for five years with no child. She was friends with Kate for ages. Due to complications in her marriage, she begged Kate to marry her husband and bear him children.

Amma's eyes pleaded, her face etched with desperation. "Amma, what you are asking is very big, I can't do it," Kate said, her voice laced with hesitation.

Amma's expression turned beseeching, her hands clasped together. "Please, I don't want my husband to marry another woman into the house who will turn my husband against me," she implored, her voice trembling.

Kate's brow furrowed, uncertainty written across her face.

Amma's eyes welled up with tears. "You have been my friend, and I trust you... please do this for me," she begged, her voice cracking.

Kate's resolve began to waver, her expression softening.

Months passed, Amma's persistence unwavering. She continued to beg Kate, her words laced with desperation.

Kate's face reflected her inner turmoil, her eyes filled with empathy.

Finally, after several months of begging, Kate's expression changed. Her shoulders sagged, and she nodded slowly.

Amma's face lit up with relief, tears streaming down her face. "Thank you, Kate. Thank you," she whispered, grasping Kate's hands

Kate's smile was weak, her eyes still clouded with doubt.

Amma's grip tightened, her eyes shining with gratitude. "You won't regret this, I promise."

.

.

.

They were living happily as one big family until Kate took in for the first time.

Noah's face beamed with joy, his eyes shining with happiness.

Amma's expression softened, her eyes filled with gratitude.

Noah and Amma were blessed by the news, especially after five years of their marriage without a child. A child's cry would finally be heard.

It was a day of joy for everyone.

After two months of Kate getting pregnant, Amma also got pregnant, and the joy increased.

Noah's face lit up with double delight, his eyes sparkling with elation.

Kate's smile broadened, her face glowing with shared happiness.

Amma's eyes shone with tears of joy, her face etched with gratitude.

Noah was made the happiest man, and the family continued to grow in peace and unity.

Several months later,

Kate's face contorted in pain as she pushed through labor. Noah's anxious expression mirrored Amma's concerned gaze.

Finally, Kate gave birth to two babies: a boy and a girl.

Noah's face lit up with joy, but their happiness was short-lived.

Kate's eyes welled up with tears as she lost her baby girl.

Amma's expression turned somber, her eyes filled with empathy.

The family rallied around Kate, offering comfort and solace.

The next month, Amma's face glowed with triumph as she gave birth to two girls.

Noah's eyes sparkled with delight, his face alight with joy.

The celebration continued, and the family grew as one.

Two years passed.

Kate's radiant complexion returned as she conceived again.

But fate had other plans.

Kate's face paled as complications arose during delivery.

Noah's anxious expression turned to horror.

Kate's eyes locked onto Noah's, her voice barely above a whisper.

Amma's face crumpled, tears streaming down.

Kate's life slipped away, leaving behind a baby girl.

The family's joy turned to despair.

Amma's expression firmed, determination etched on her face.

"I'll take her children as my own," Amma vowed.

Noah's eyes, red-rimmed from tears, met Amma's, gratitude shining within.

Years passed, the children growing up as one.

Tony, Kate's son, grew strong and confident.

Katherine, Kate's daughter, blossomed into a sweet girl.

Stella and Diana, Amma's daughters, flourished.

Tragedy struck one fateful night.

Tony's face twisted in agony as he lay crippled from an accident.

His family rushed to his side, shock and worry etched on their faces.

Katherine's eyes welled up with tears, her small face contorted in distress.

Amma's expression turned resolute, her eyes filled with determination.

Noah's jaw clenched, his face set in resolve.

"We'll get through this together," Amma whispered.

Tony's gaze locked onto Katherine's, his eyes filled with love and gratitude.

His family became his rock, especially his kid sister, whom he cherished deeply.

Everyone was still living happily until Diana and Stella's expressions changed, their faces clouding with resentment.

Diana's eyes narrowed, her voice laced with venom. "It's all your fault, Katherine. Everything wrong in this family is because of you."

Stella's face twisted in jealousy, her lips curling. "Dad loves you more, that's why he's always favoring you."

Katherine's eyes widened, her face etched with confusion and hurt.

Amma's expression turned concerned, her brow furrowed. "Girls, what's going on? Why are you talking to Katherine like this?"

Diana's gaze didn't waver. "You're always taking Dad's attention, Katherine. He's always there for you, but never for us."

Stella's voice rose. "Yeah, and now Tony's accident is all because of you too."

Katherine's tears welled up, her face crumpling.

Noah's face darkened, his eyes flashing with anger. "That's enough, girls. You have no right to blame Katherine for everything."

Amma's expression firmed, her voice stern. "We're a family, and we stick together. We don't turn on each other."

Diana and Stella's faces fell, but their eyes still simmered with resentment.

Tony, observing from his wheelchair, his face twisted in anguish. "Stop, Diana. Stop, Stella. Katherine doesn't deserve this."

Katherine's eyes met Tony's, gratitude shining within.

The tension lingered, the family's harmony fractured.

Katherine stood tall, her slender figure commanding attention. Her long, raven-black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of night, its soft waves framing her heart-shaped face. Her piercing emerald eyes sparkled with warmth, fringed with thick lashes that seemed to flutter with every blink.

Her skin was a radiant canvas of porcelain, smooth and unblemished, with a subtle sheen that hinted at a life lived in the sunshine. Her nose was small and delicate, slightly upturned at the tip, giving her an endearing, pixie-like quality.

Her father loved her and she always says she reminded him of her late mother and she has the lookalike of her mother.

Noah assigned his two daughters to take over his wine company since Tony is not fit because of his condition,he also ask Katherine to join his company, but she refused and insisted on working in a publishing company, that's her dream job, and her father agreed to the discussion she made, but her two sisters mocked at her, but her brother stood by her including Mrs.Amma.

Here comes, the Ryder's family, A royalty's family. King Ryder the fourth took after his father as the king of his country, he was married to Queen Charlotte and they were blessed with four sons and two daughters, whom are: Dominic, the first child, Ethan, the second son, Lucas the third son, Alex, the fourth son follow by the two identical twins; Ruby and Riley.

Dominic, the eldest brother and crown prince, stood tall at thirty, his commanding presence undeniable. His dark brown hair was styled to perfection, with hints of messiness that only added to his allure. Piercing blue eyes sparkled with kindness, fringed with thick lashes that seemed to flutter with every blink. Chiseled jawlines, sharp cheekbones, and a small nose defined his regal features. Broad shoulders and a strong physique filled out his tailored suits, accentuating his royal status.

Ethan, Twenty-eight years old and effortlessly charming, boasted light brown hair that always seemed perfectly messy. Warm hazel eyes shone bright and friendly, set amidst an oval face dotted with freckles across his nose. His lean, athletic build moved with quiet confidence, clad in casual yet elegant sweaters and jeans.

Lucas, Twenty-five years old and radiating mischief, sported dark blond hair stylishly tousled. Bright green eyes sparkled with trouble, framed by a heart-shaped face with full lips and a small nose. His slender, agile physique darted with ease, showcasing trendy fashion choices.

Alex, Twenty-three years old and quietly compassionate, presented sandy blond hair neatly trimmed. Soft gray eyes shone gentle and kind, set within a round face smattered with freckles. His petite, athletic build exuded quiet strength, clad in classic yet simple outfits.

Ruby and Riley, nineteen-year-old twin sisters, shared an ethereal beauty. Ruby's rich auburn locks cascaded in curly vibrancy, framing deep brown eyes warm with expression. Her slender, athletic build flowed in bohemian chic, with flowing dresses accentuating her free spirit.

Riley's honey-blonde hair fell sleek and straight, illuminating bright blue eyes sparkling with laughter. Her athletic yet elegant physique glided in classic, tailored outfits, showcasing refined poise.

The siblings' striking features and regal bearing reflected their noble lineage, yet their warmth and kindness shone brighter still.

Dominic, commanded the corporate world as CEO of Ryder's Industries, the family's esteemed conglomerate. His Ivy League pedigree - an MBA from Harvard and a Bachelor's in Business Administration from Oxford - had prepared him for the role. With strategic vision and leadership prowess, Dominic propelled the company to unprecedented heights.

Ethan, the compassionate healer, had traded his royal title for a doctor's coat. A medical degree from Cambridge and residency at Johns Hopkins had honed his skills as a cardiothoracic surgeon. His steady hands and empathetic heart made him a beloved figure in the medical community.

Lucas, the sharp-witted lawyer, navigated the complexities of corporate law with ease. Yale Law School and the University of London had equipped him with the expertise to safeguard Ryder's Industries' interests. As a partner at Ryder & Associates, Lucas's persuasive arguments and razor-sharp mind made him a formidable force.

Alex, the innovative engineer, fueled Ryder Innovations' cutting-edge projects. His dual degrees from MIT and Berkeley had ignited a passion for mechanical engineering. With each revolutionary design, Alex solidified the company's position as a technological trailblazer.

Ruby and Riley, the vibrant twins, were blossoming scholars. Ruby's diplomatic flair and passion for international relations flourished at the University of Edinburgh, while Riley's artistic talents unfolded at UCLA. Their diverse interests and skills would soon propel them onto the world stage.

Their noble upbringing and exceptional education had cultivated leaders, each forged in their own unique fire.

.

.

.

The warm sunlight streaming through the grand windows of Ryder Manor cast a golden glow on the assembled family. Dominic, resplendent in his tailored suit, stood at the head of the table, surveying his loved ones.

To his right, Ethan laughed with Ruby and Riley, the twins' eyes sparkling as they teased their older brother. Lucas, seated beside Alex, engaged in a heated debate about the latest tech innovations.

Their parents, the king and queen, entered the room, dignified and smiling. "Family gatherings are always my favorite," the queen said, her eyes shining with warmth.

As they took their seats, Dominic raised his glass. "To family, and to another year of love, success, and happiness."

The room echoed with the clinking of glasses and joyful murmurs.

Ethan turned to Ruby and Riley. "How's university life treating you both?"

Ruby rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "We're surviving, thanks to Mom's care packages."

Riley grinned mischievously. "And Dominic's constant checks on us."

Lucas chuckled. "Someone has to keep you two in line."

Alex interjected, "I'm working on a revolutionary new project. Want to hear about it?"

The king's eyes lit up. "Always eager to hear about innovation, Alex."

As the evening unfolded, laughter and conversation flowed freely. The Harrison family's bond was palpable, forged through love, respect, and shared value.

★NOAH'S MANSION★

The dining table was filled with the soft clinking of utensils as everyone ate quietly. Katherine's eyes scanned the room, noticing the paled looks on their faces.

She knew it was because of the previous night's events.

"Am sorry," Katherine said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Everyone turned to look at her, confusion etched on their faces.

Diana's eyebrows furrowed, skepticism written across her face.

"Yeah, right," Diana scoffed, her voice dripping with disdain.

"Am sorry about last night...I didn't mean to ruin everyone's night".

Amma's expression softened, a warm smile spreading across her face.

"It's ok, dear, you didn't ruin anyone's sleep," Amma reassured.

Tony's eyes locked onto Katherine's, concern etched on his face.

"I heard you scream," Tony said, his voice gentle. "Am sorry I couldn't come over to your room."

Katherine flashed a smile at Tony, gratitude shining in her eyes.

Mr. Noah's face radiated understanding, his eyes filled with love.

"It's ok, there is no need to apologize," Mr. Noah said. "We are family, and we will always have each other's back."

Katherine's smile broadened, her eyes welling up with tears.

"Thank you, Dad," Katherine whispered.

Amma's expression turned practical, her voice gentle.

"Now, finish your food. You don't want to be late for your interview."

The tension dissipated, and the family continued eating, the warmth and love between them palpable.

Diana's face still held a hint of resentment, but Stella's expression remained neutral.

As they ate, the conversation turned to mundane topics, the previous night's events slowly fading into the background.

THE KING'S PALACE

Dominic rushed down from his room, his face tense with urgency, already late for work. He descended the staircase, his footsteps swift.

As he reached the bottom, he spotted his family gathered around the dining table.

"Good morning, family," Dominic greeted, his voice hurried, before turning to leave.

Queen Charlotte's expression turned concerned, her brow furrowed.

"Aren't you going to have your breakfast first before leaving?" Queen Charlotte asked, her voice gentle.

Dominic's face revealed his impatience. "I can't, Mom, I have an important client waiting for me at the office," Dominic replied.

Ethan's eyes sparkled with mischief, his smile playful.

"At least take a bite," Ethan insisted.

Dominic's jaw clenched. "I'm not hungry," he said firmly, turning to leave.

Just then, the seer walked in, his presence commanding attention.

Everyone's eyes widened in surprise.

King Ryder's expression turned grave, his brow furrowed.

The seer's face was solemn, his eyes intense.

Whenever he came to the palace, it meant one thing: a message from the divine.

The air thickened with anticipation.

Queen Charlotte's hands clasped together, her eyes locked onto the seer.

Dominic's departure forgotten, he turned back, curiosity etched on his face.

Ethan's grin faded, replaced by intrigue.

The room fell silent, awaiting the seer's words.

The seer's gaze swept the room, his voice low and mysterious.

"I bring a message from the heaven..."

"I will take my leave now," Dominic said, his voice laced with impatience, as he turned to depart.

The seer's hand shot out, his expression stern. "You can't go, my prince. The message includes everyone here," the seer declared.

Dominic's face fell, his eyes narrowing in frustration. "Really?" he sighed tiredly.

The seer's gaze remained unwavering.

Soon, the family gathered in the king's chamber, their faces filled with curiosity.

King Ryder's expression turned grave, his eyes locked onto the seer.

"Tell us the message," King Ryder commanded.

The seer bowed, his voice low and reverent.

"Your Majesty, I greet you... The heavens have spoken, and I bring their words."

Queen Charlotte's hands clasped together, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"The time has come for the crown prince to pick a wife," the seer announced.

Dominic's eyes widened in surprise, his face pale.

Ethan's eyebrows shot up, his mouth agape.

Their siblings exchanged shocked glances.

King Ryder's expression remained stoic, his eyes knowing.

Queen Charlotte's face held a hint of a smile.

Only their parents seemed to grasp the seer's words fully.

Dominic's mind reeled, his thoughts racing with the implications.

"What?" Dominic stuttered, his voice barely audible.

The seer's gaze locked onto Dominic.

"The gods have decreed it, my prince. Your marriage will seal the kingdom's fate."

The room fell silent, the weight of the seer's words hanging heavy.

Dominic's face reflected his turmoil, his eyes searching for answers.

"Five families have been selected for the prince to pick his wife," the seer continued, his expression solemn. "Each of these families will bring their daughters to the palace, and they will be entitled to live in the palace and participate in whatever task that is given to them."

Dominic's eyes widened in incredulity, his face pale.

"I don't get it," Dominic interrupted, his voice laced with skepticism. The seer's gaze remained unwavering. "You mean to tell me I've got to pick a wife from the ladies that will be brought to this palace?" Dominic asked, his tone disbelieving.

Queen Charlotte's lips curved into a gentle smile.

"Are you being serious right now?" Dominic pressed, his expression frustrated. The seer's face remained stern. "I thought this type of thing happened only in movies," Dominic exclaimed, throwing up his hands.

Ethan's face mirrored Dominic's shock, his eyes wide with amusement.

King Ryder's expression turned stern, his brow furrowed.

"This is not a joke, Dominic," King Ryder said. "This is a divine decree."

The seer nodded in agreement. "The gods have chosen these five families for a reason," the seer said. "You will find your suitable wife among them."

Dominic's face reflected his turmoil, his eyes searching for escape.

"This is crazy," Dominic muttered, shaking his head.

Queen Charlotte's expression softened.

"Trust in the gods, Dominic," Queen Charlotte said. "They know what's best for you and the kingdom."

Dominic's gaze locked onto his mother's, his eyes pleading for understanding.

"What if I don't like any of those girls?" Dominic asked, his face scrunched in frustration. "This is the 22nd century, none of this happens anymore."

King Ryder's expression turned stern, his eyes serious.

"It has always been the tradition of the land," King Ryder said. "It always brings in good fortune... I married your mother through that process."

Dominic's eyes rolled, his sigh tired.

"This is kinda cute," Alex said, a playful grin spreading across her face.

Lucas's eyebrows rose, his interest piqued.

"Are we entitled to this as well?" Lucas asked, turning to the seer.

The seer's face remained solemn.

"No, my prince," the seer replied. "Only the crown prince is entitled to it."

Lucas's face fell, but the seer continued.

"But... you can also pick your choice once the crown prince picks his at the end of the task."

Ethan's face lit up, a smile spreading.

"Cool!" Ethan exclaimed.

Ruby's eyes sparkled, her face radiant.

"When are we starting with the task?" Ruby asked happily.

Riley's expression mirrored Ruby's enthusiasm.

"We seriously can't wait," Riley said.

Dominic stared confusedly at his siblings, his face incredulous.

"This is not happening," Dominic muttered, shaking his head.

The seer's gaze locked onto Dominic.

"The tasks will begin in a week," the seer announced. "The five families will arrive by the end of this week once they receive the letter from the palace. Be prepared, Prince Dominic."

Dominic's eyes widened, his face pale.

King Ryder's expression turned resolute.

"This is the will of the gods, Dominic. You will fulfill your duty."

Queen Charlotte's eyes shone with encouragement.

"We trust you, Dominic. You will make the right choice."

Dominic's face reflected his turmoil, his eyes searching for escape.

Days later...

In various parts of the kingdom, excitement filled the air as each of the selected families started receiving letters from the palace.

Stella's face lit up with curiosity as she heard the ringing bell.

She rushed to the door, pulling it open to reveal a palace messenger.

The messenger's face was formal, his eyes straight ahead.

"Delivery from the palace," he announced, holding out a sealed letter.

Stella's eyes widened, her hands trembling slightly as she took the letter.

The messenger's expression remained neutral.

"Thank you," Stella said, her voice barely above a whisper.

The messenger nodded, turned, and walked away, accompanied by the rest of the guards.

Stella closed the door, her eyes fixed on the letter.

Her face reflected her excitement and trepidation.

She wandered what could be in the letter, her mind racing with possibilities.

Her mother, Amma, appeared beside her, concern etched on her face.

"What is it, Stella?" Amma asked.

Stella's hands hesitated, then broke the seal.

As she unfolded the letter, her eyes scanned the page.

Amma's eyes locked onto Stella's, anticipation building.

Stella's face transformed, a radiant smile spreading.

"Mom, it's from the palace," Stella exclaimed. "We've been selected... Our family has been chosen."

Amma's expression turned euphoric, tears welling up.

"Oh, Stella! This is incredible news!" Amma cried.

Stella's eyes sparkled, her face aglow.

"We have to tell everyone!" Stella squealed.

Some minutes later...

The room radiated joy, everyone smiling at the letter as Diana read it out for them once again.

Stella's eyes sparkled, her face aglow.

"This is the best news ever, I can't believe I will be chosen as the prince's wife," Stella exclaimed, her voice trembling with excitement.

Diana's expression turned confident, a smirk playing on her lips.

"Don't get your hopes high, kid sis," Diana scoffed. "I am the oldest, and I will be chosen by him."

Tony's face appeared, his eyes teasing. "Why are you two contemplating on it when you don't know if you will be selected or not?" Tony asked, chuckling.

Diana's face fell, her eyes narrowing. "Don't be a joy killer, big bro," Diana said, pouting. "Don't you want us to be crowned queen of this kingdom?"

Tony's expression softened, his smile warm. "Of course, I am," Tony replied.

Mr. Noah's face beamed with pride. "I know one of you will definitely be picked as the prince's bride," Mr. Noah said.

Amma's eyes shone with encouragement. "Yeah, we believe in you three," Amma added.

The girls turned to Amma, surprise etched on their faces. "Are you talking about Katherine?" Stella asked, her brow furrowed.

Amma's expression remained serene. "Yes," Amma replied.

Diana's face twisted in disdain. "Hell no, Mother," Diana exclaimed. "Katherine will do worse there. You should know how clumsy she can be."

Stella nodded in agreement.

Tony's expression turned stern. "She is qualified as well," Tony said. "The letter says all the ladies are entitled to it... whether the family has five daughters, it doesn't matter."

The girls turned away, dismissing Tony's words.

Just then, Katherine walked in, her face a picture of dejection. Her eyes drooped, her shoulders slumped.

This was her third failed interview, and the disappointment was visible.

Her family exchanged knowing glances.

"Hey, sweetie," Amma said, concern etched on her face. "How was the interview?"

Katherine's lips curved into a weak smile. "It didn't go well," Katherine replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"That's because you always fail in everything," Stella mocked, her face twisted in scorn.

Amma's expression turned stern, her eyes flashing with disapproval. "Stella, stop that," Amma reprimanded.

Tony's face softened, his eyes filled with empathy. "Don't worry anymore, little sis," Tony said. "There's a reason why they kept rejecting you."

Katherine's eyes drooped, her face etched with sadness. "What reason could be worse than that?" Katherine asked, her voice laced with despair. "I have all the qualifications, and yet I wasn't picked."

Mr. Noah's face radiated calm, his voice soothing. "Don't get yourself worked up," Mr. Noah said.

Amma's expression turned gentle, her eyes warm. "Yes, sweetie," Amma said, moving to Katherine's side.

"We have something that will cheer you up," Amma announced.

Katherine's eyebrows rose, curiosity sparking. "What could that be?" Katherine asked.

Amma's smile broadened, her hands holding out the letter. "Here," Amma said.

Katherine took the letter, her eyes scanning the page. Her face remained expressionless. "So?" Katherine asked, her voice flat.

Amma's enthusiasm remained undeterred. "That is the surprise," Amma said.

Katherine handed the letter back to Amma, her face still impassive.

"Are you going?"She asked, her voice devoid of emotion.

Diana's eyes narrowed, her face twisted in annoyance.

"Of course, she's going," Diana said. "We all are."

Stella's expression mirrored Diana's.

Katherine's gaze drifted to her sisters, her eyes searching. "For what?" Katherine asked, her voice still laced with confusion.

Amma's smile faltered, her eyes locked onto Katherine's.

"Read the letter again, sweetie," Amma encouraged.

"So, you are going".

Katherine's eyes dropped to the letter, her face still unreadable.

"Hell no!" Katherine exclaimed, her face scrunched in distaste.

Diana's and Stella's faces lit up with excitement.

"Yes!" they chimed in unison, their eyes sparkling.

"Why not?" Tony asked, his brow furrowed. "You are qualified as well."

Katherine's expression turned resolute. "This is not my thing," Katherine said. "It didn't say it was compulsory for every lady to participate... There's no way I'm going. This is not my problem right now."

Mr. Noah's face turned stern.

"It's compulsory, child," Mr. Noah said. "It says every daughter of each house, and you and your sisters are the three daughters I have."

Diana's expression softened.

"We can't force her," Diana said.

Katherine's eyes flashed with determination.

"I'm serious, Dad," Katherine said. "I'm not going... My sisters can go. They are fully qualified, and they are older than me. They have my support."

Diana's face reflected surprise.

"Wow... for the first time in your life, this is the only thing you've said that makes sense," Diana said.

Stella nodded in agreement.

"Yeah... I wish you guys luck," Katherine said, yawning. She turned to leave, her shoulders slumped. "I'll be in my room. I'm very tired," Katherine announced.

The family stared after her as she climbed the stairs to her room.

Amma's expression turned concerned. "I'll bring your food to you," Amma said.

Katherine's voice drifted from upstairs. "Thank you, Mom," Katherine replied.

The room fell silent, the tension lingering.

Diana's eyes met Stella's, a shared understanding passing between them.

Tony's face reflected empathy.

Mr. Noah's expression remained resolute.

Amma's eyes lingered on the stairs, worry etched on her face.