Missouri. The 24th state has a name that sounds like the synonym of suffering, and she'll tell you otherwise she isn't miserable. In fact, she's the total opposite. Among the states, she's a friendly, outgoing spelunker who likes to speak her thoughts on the subject being mentioned. However, she isn't always like this.

Back when Missouri was a territory, she was a timid girl who was struggling to be accepted by the others. At the time, the Northern states had a problem with Missouri being accepted into the Union. The Southern states, who were supportive on Missouri's admission, argued with the Northern states to give Missouri a chance. Both sides constantly fought over Missouri's role as a result.

Resentful of the fighting, Missouri was doubtful on becoming a state. Yet, she wished to be a state like the others. When 1820 came around, Missouri made the journey to convince the Northern states to let her into the Union. This was her side to the story.

☆☆☆☆☆

January 1, 1820.

The moment the grandfather clock rang twelve, chiming a deep gong to a new year, I had finished pressing the wax seal on my last letter. With my bags packed for later in the morning, I was ready to make the winter trip to the northeast.

Most of my people are becoming disgruntled lately. Earlier returns from the capital without a solution have placed me in midst of their dissatisfied grumbles and harsh criticism. At times, they blamed me for not doing enough to convince the Union. I couldn't say I blame them. Nor could I hate them. It's my responsibility to make sure their needs are satisfied. For that, I need to become a state as soon as possible.

Despite my representatives' doubts on the task, I was allowed to venture beyond my home on a mission of persuasion. My goal is to convince and compromise with the northern states in the hopes of them voting for my admission into the Union. By doing so, I hope to not only satisfy my people's requests on becoming state, but also allow them to retain their rights to their property.

Once the morning messenger comes to deliver my letters to the unwilling states, I'll be making my journey in the hopes of meeting and convincing the northern states to vote for my admission. It will be tough, but hopefully they're open to a conclusion on this stubborn matter.

~

January 3, 1820.

The first state I went to was Illinois. Elliot was my neighbor to the east, so it would make sense to see him first. Despite being neighbors for a while now, we rarely talked to each other. He didn't seem to notice me too much when we were at the capital arguing over my position, but he didn't seem like the type to be serious on the matter. He seemed pretty friendly, so I assumed he would give me a chance.

"So, can you lend me your support?" I asked.

The dark-skinned boy thought on the question for a moment before answering, "No offense, but I can't support you."

My hopeful smile slowly disappeared. "Oh...why not?" I uttered afraid.

Elliot scratched the back of his head, attempting to smile out of pity. "I-I mean, you're a nice person and all, and I'm glad to finally talk with you personally. However, my people don't like slavery as much as your people, so my decision remains the same. Again, you seem like a good person, and I appreciate your commitment to persuade me, but I can't vote for your admission until...you know..."

He was doing his best to let me off easy. As disappointed as I was to hear his rejection, I could only nod and respect his decision. "It's alright. I understand your reasons, and I won't force you to agree with me." I got up from my seat.

"Where are you going?" he questioned.

"I'm heading over to Indiana."

His eyes brighten as was his smile. "Ivy over there might give you a chance. She likes to farm like you. I think..."

I softly smiled. "Thank you for telling me this. I'll keep that in mind."

Soon after I left Elliot's home and made my way to Indiana. With Elliot voting against my admission, I'll need Ivy to vote in my favor. And if what he said is correct, I hope she's as friendly as he says.

~

January 6, 1820.

It's a miracle the roads were clear of snow and ice, allowing me a smooth ride within a matter of two days. By the time I arrived in Ivy's house, I came across a patch of barren fields of cold dirt and frost. Ivy was at the stables tending to her prized horses when I approached her. From there, we sat on hay bales while I explained my predicament to her.

"If you can, I would like for you to side with me on the issue," I asked.

Ivy shifted from her position, laying back against the wooden wall before heaving out a sigh. "I guess I'll see what to make of it."

"Is that a yes then?"

She shrugged. "First, I'll have to ask my boss and my people on the matter, and see if they're willing to give you a chance. And if they happen to be willing to give you a chance, I'll be sure to vote for you."

I couldn't help, but smile hearing such positive news. "Thank you so much."

"Don't celebrate just yet. There are those northeastern states who might not be as open as I am. If anything, they'll probably be hard-line against you. As advice to you as a former territory, be careful not to step over the line because states like New York are worse than not being accepted at all."

I eagerly nodded, getting up from the hay bale. "Thank you for telling me this. I'll be sure to prepare before meeting them." I ran off.

After leaving Ivy's home, I headed eastward to Ohio. Thinking about my meeting with Ivy, I remembered the young girl being rather new as a state. Both her and Elliot had entered the Union rather recently, so I guess it would make sense they empathize with my motives. Maybe one day I'll be able to befriend them once I become a state. For now, I must focus on the next state I'll be meeting.

~

January 10, 1820.

Getting over to Columbus was difficult. For starters, the recent blizzard in the state forced my carriage to go off-course, taking the longer route instead. The detour forced me at times to travel at night; the icy temperature nearly freezing my toes off. Yet, I endured, and I arrived in the recently built city at the heart of the state, just in time before snowfall that late afternoon.

At the front steps of his home, I had to wait in the cold for a while before Oliver finally answered the door. He then offered me hot, bitter coffee and asked for me to stay in the parlor until he sorted some work out with his boss. It wasn't until late in the evening, after dinner and a warm bath, were we able to talk to one another. From there, I made my argument.

"Can you offer your support to me?" I asked

Oliver blankly stared at me; showing no emotion that indicated any empathy toward me. "I'm sorry, but I can't."

"Oh...is there a reason why?"

He sternly nodded his head. "There's no benefit on me supporting you. If anything, people are going to dislike me if I were to say anything good about you. Even with your argument, I'll choose what's best for me and vote against your admission."

I didn't know know what to make of his answer at first. Saying I was disappointed is an understatement. The way he said it, I could only imagine myself spitting his terribly-made coffee in his face. However, I swallowed the bitter, brown liquid and faked an understanding smile. As his guest, it's best I don't argue and accept his reasons. "Can you keep what I said in mind?"

He shrugged. "I can, but that's as far as I'm willing to support you. Now then, is there anything else you want to talk to me about?"

"Nothing else. I was hoping you would back me..." I spoke sadly.

"Sorry to disappoint," he softly smiled. "It's just your people seem...off in their beliefs. At least for now, I can't support you."

"Well, thank you for allowing me to stay at your home for tonight."

"That's fine. I rarely get any visitors for some reason, so having someone like you around is a breath of fresh air. And if you're interested, I can offer you a tour of my city. It's a work in progress, but I hope to build it as large and as grand as Philadelphia or New York City. Who knows. Maybe it'll become famous one day..."

Oliver kept rambling on and on about his big plans while I politely sat and listened to his grandiose plans. As much as I dislike his decision on the matter, there are other states I can convince. All I need is a majority vote in my favor, and my admission is guaranteed. With that fact in mind, I can only hope the next state I meet is willing make a deal with me.

~

January 14, 1820.

The trip to Philadelphia was a long one. There was light snow on the way, but the carriage didn't suffer too much on the road to the Pennsylvanian city. When I found myself at Penelope's house, she was kind and courteous upon greeting me. We then have chocolate drinks in her living room. She must've not put a lot of sugar in her cups because the normally sweet drink was incredibly bitter. But I didn't complain as I didn't want to offend her taste buds. After all, I want her to have a good opinion of me when I explain my argument to her.

"If you could, I would like your support on the matter," I asked.

She softly smiled, taking a sip out of her cup. "That I cannot do."

An uncomfortable amount of silence followed after her casual, blunt answer. I thought she would explain her reasons as soon as she said this. Instead, she simply sipped her beverage.

"Um...is there a reason for your answer?" I inquired.

Penelope blinked her eyes, tilting her head slightly at me. "Why do you ask?"

"Well, I simply want to know your reasoning behind the answer."

She looked at me perplexed. "What simple reason is there to support someone who allows slavery?"

I nearly dropped my cup onto her ornate rug when she said this. "I-I beg your pardon?"

Penelope let out a sigh, placing her empty cup down on the coffee table. "I was never a believer in the malicious practice. I have always believed in equality among every American citizen in this free country. To see such an infamous institution prosper goes against the foundation of this nation. And so, that is why I can't support you. Now then, is my answer satisfactory to you or do you want an essay?"

There was a dangerous glint in her copper eyes that prevented me from attempting to reason with her. Her words, bitter like the chocolate drink I just had, I couldn't believe this woman, once courteous to me earlier, was able to hold such vicious words. But I won't let her get to me.

I heaved out a huge breath, determined to get her support. "I wish to become a state," I started. "My people are becoming...irritated...on your decision to not accept me until I remove their property and disapprove the institution for which isn't possible. From what I heard, you were known to be tolerant toward even the most unforgivable individuals to which I admire such behavior. For this upcoming vote, I hope you put aside our differences and support my admission. If you do that, I'll be in your gratitude. So please... Can you lend me your support?"

Penelope didn't answer immediately. She, instead, went to grab a bronze kettle and pour herself another chocolate drink. She took a sip from the cup before answering. "As different as we are, state and territory, I can see in the near future your admission into the Union to be soon. However, I don't see myself supporting a slave state, so I'm afraid you haven't convince me. Nor do I think you'll ever will."

I couldn't believe what she was saying. "I'm not asking for much. All I want is your sup-"

"You don't want my support," she interrupt in a slightly vexed tone. "You want my vote. There is a difference."

"But without your sup-...vote, I won't be able to become a state."

She sipped her drink before responding, "If you want my vote, you'll have to earn my support. My support is determined by my beliefs in comparison to yours. Our beliefs differ. Therefore, I cannot lend you my support. Thus, I cannot vote for you."

She drank her chocolate drink, leaving me to contemplate what she said in boiling silence. I narrowed my eyes at her. "Do you have any sympathy for me?"

"I do not," she bluntly stated.

"Why not?" I nearly shouted demanding her answer.

Once again, she drank out of her cup, patiently answering, "We live in different worlds. I was at the forefront of liberation while you're at the foreground of enslavement. Whatever you're doing, I wish you the best in achieving it. And how you achieve it, I do not know other than the fact I won't support it."

I didn't know what to make of her reasoning. She was too smart for her own good. I could only shook my head. "I don't get it. You said I'll be accepted into the Union no matter what."

Penelope politely nodded. "I did. I do not know the day, month, or year, but in the future you will be a part of the Union. But what matters is who were the people who got you in," she sipped her drink, "I won't be one of those people." All of this she said in a pursed smile and a chirpy tone.

Her brutal honesty left me on edge, close to slapping her smug smile off her face. Never would I thought she would be this...heartless. I should've heeded Ivy's advice and knew what I was getting into. I should've known Penelope would deny giving me any support, but never did I think she would be this brutal telling me.

Before my frustration got a hold on my mouth, I stood right up from my seat on the sofa. "I should get going now," I muttered between my teeth stomping out of the parlor, heading out the door.

Penelope waved me off, still with a smile on her face. "I'll see you at the capital th-"

I slammed the front door behind me before I could hear her fake farewell. My lips quivered to the freezing cold, grazing my teeth as I did my best not to scream. I forced my eyes to my bear coat, wiping away the falling snowflakes that fell off my cheeks. Done for the day, I went back to my carriage and headed for an inn to stay and rest at; defeated and tired in my sleep.

~

January 16, 1820.

Despite the snowfall becoming worse heading north, I managed to cross the border to New Jersey and meet with Jeremy at his house. He was busy making sure his garden was protected from the winter freeze when I found him at the front of his home. I recognize the red-headed young man from the earlier conventions at the capital, knowing him to be the reckless rascal to always disturb York with silly jokes and stupid shenanigans. So I assumed he would be easy to convince, at least friendlier than Penelope.

"If you could, can you side with me on the matter?" I asked.

Jeremy didn't seem too interested in our conversation. His eyes kept darting elsewhere to either the clock or a painting during my argument. I was slightly annoyed by the rude manner, but I suppressed myself to be patient with him. I ask him again, and this time I caught his attention."

"What did the others say?" he asked.

At first, I wasn't sure how to word the answer to his question. For a moment I thought on lying to him. "I haven't met all the northern states yet. For the ones I asked, most seem to be on the fence on my admission. If possible, I'm hoping you can convince them to support me," I honestly answered.

"Why should I support you?"

His question took me aback. "What?"

"I mean, how is supporting you going to benefit me?" He scratched the back of his head, leaning back in his chair.

"Well...I..." my words darted off into silence. Whatever answer I wanted to say to convince him wasn't there in my mouth by the time Jeremy spoke again.

"I don't mean to offend you, but I don't see myself voting for you. The argument you made is something I can't agree with. Even if there is a small part of me that can forgive you, the others expect me to vote against you."

I didn't know what to make of his excuse. I shook my head, astounded by his reasons. "Peer pressure. Is that why you're refusing to support me? What about your opinions?"

"I do have opinions. They happen to support theirs. I am rather neutral on the matter, but there is no such thing as being neutral in mandatory voting between two options. So between the two choices of you or them, I'll have to side with them."

Disappointment was an understatement. His lackluster answer infuriated the daylights out of me. I came all this way to persuade him, only to be told his vote belonged to the New England region infuriated me. And the way he treated my explanation proves he, like the others, don't care about my well-being. I doubt he listened to a word I said.

"I'll be going now. Thank you for having me here." I got up from my chair as Jersey led me out the door.

He smiled, waving me off. "No problem. You're always welcomed here anytime."

Out the door, I went back to the carriage without support once again. I wanted to throw a snowball at his face before he closed the door, but doing that would more than likely get him to vote against me. Plus, I don't have much time to waste. I needed to head to New York City and see the next state on my list.

I recalled his earlier help during the sessions at the capital. He tried to pass me as favorable, at least to his neighbors, but I knew his amendments would irritate the southern states and my people. Thus, I voted against having such amendments. I doubt he would be open to my arrival, but hopefully he's willing to see me. I'm grateful for his help on the amendments, but now I need him to support me once again. Hopefully he does.

~

January 18, 1820.

Taking the route across the chilling waters to New York City, I arrived in the snow-covered city to look for Billy. Unfortunately, Billy wasn't home that morning, recently leaving for his job in the government building. Rather than wait until he got home later in the evening, I decided to head over to where Billy worked and try to convince him.

When I arrived at his office within the city, he had an irritated look on his face. He was about to kick me out, but after begging him to let me have a word with him did he give in. The businessman only allowed me five minutes of his time, forcing me to cut most of my argument into the main points. I did my best to explain, but each word I spouted made no impact on his blank expression.

"I'm really desperate to gain permission into the Union, so your support is much appreciated," I asked.

He didn't give me a chance to breathe before spewing, "I refuse," in a frigid tone.

"B-But-"

"Hearing your reasons only solidify why I voted against such a possibility. I tried to help you, but you refuse each time."

"I only refuse because my people wouldn't like those changes," I excuse.

He rolled his eyes. "And here you are."

I narrowed my eyes. "Do you hate me?"

He scoffed, "As an individual, no. As for your problem, you have no idea. I've spent countless hours working to provide you an amendment that would've made you favorable to my allies, but instead it went to waste. From now on, you're on your own." York stood up from his office chair, stepping away from his desk and opening the door. "Your time's up. I have much business to work on before heading to the capital."

I stood up from my chair, begrudgingly exiting the door. "You don't understand..." I grumbled without looking at him.

He made a scowl. "I understand more than enough. I gave you a chance, and you didn't take it. Now leave." He pointed the way out.

Without a choice, I went my way out of York's office. I can finally say he was the biggest jerk out of the whole northeastern region. Businessmen like him are soulless from what I heard. Whatever chance I had to convince him wasn't likely, but at least I gave it a try. Still, I was once again denied of any support.

Was it possible to get their support at this point? I honestly don't know. The states I've recently visited were cold-hearted northerners who are too stubborn and selfish to consider the lengths I went to try and convince them. As much as I want to head home, my dignity hurt and my determination cracked, I can't let this defeat stop me. There are more states who might be open to a compromise. They might just be the answer I'm looking for.

~

January 20, 1820.

Once again I sailed off the coast of the Atlantic and headed to my next stop in Connecticut. I went across the snow-buried property of Connor's home and entered his white, two-story, colonial home without argument. Despite his fancy attire that spoke of snootiness and snobbery, he was generous and genuine when he welcomed me.

After he gave me a tour of his massive home, we had lunch together. During this time, I talked to him about my statehood, and his support on the matter.

"Will you please reconsider?" I asked.

"I already made my decision," said the young man, "You made a well-detailed argument and I can appreciate that. However, I read articles and gone through documents regarding the concerns of allowing you into the Union. My people are not convinced on your admittance, so I'm oblige to their decision."

I couldn't help, but let out a disappointed sigh. "I understand," I spoke with little energy.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

I look up at him perplexed. "I'm alright."

He frowned. "Are you sure?"

I nodded. "I am."

I didn't know why he was insistent on my condition. It's already hard enough hearing his decision to vote against me, so why is he suddenly concerned about my well-being? It doesn't matter. He doesn't care about my problems, so there's no need for him to concern himself with my personal emotions.

I got up from my seat. "I need to go now." I made my way to the door as Connor followed after me.

"Cheer up. I'm sure the others will change their mind. I'll at least say this. When you see Masshole, you should be careful. He's quite temperamental with these recent snowstorms covering every inch of his home. I heard he has a cold, so his cursing should be more vicious than usual," he advised.

Turning my head to look at him directly, I nodded. "Thank you for the advice. I'll be sure to keep this warning in mind."

He softly smiled. "It's the least I could do. I'll be sure to keep your explanation in mind, and look more into the matter. Until then, I wish you the best of luck in getting the others to vote for you."

Although nicer than the others, he's still a part of them, not wanting to support my cause. I wasn't surprised he wouldn't support me. At this point, I could already predict what the rest of the states are going to say. Even if Connor supported me, I doubt he would do much against the rest of his neighbors. For now, I need to hurry and meet the rest of the states.

I'm running out of time.

~

January 21, 1820.

The road to Rhode Island was a quick trip. However, he wasn't the easiest to talk to. The moment I arrived at the front steps of his small home, he told me to go away behind the door without seeing my face.

"Rhode Island, please let me in." I knocked for the third time.

"Go away! I have no intention on seeing visitors," his voice echoed behind the door.

"But-"

"Don't care! I'll not hear a word you say."

"Please! It won't take long. All I need is ten minutes of your time, and I'll leave."

"Sod off!"

It was no use. After knocking on the frozen door for the last half hour, I gave up on speaking to the state. But maybe it's for the best. I didn't want to waste my breath to hear him say he's against me. Yet, there was a sense of unworthiness of not being accepted. Like I didn't belong...

I ended up staying at an inn, waddling in the blankets of my bed and sleeping for a long, long time. I wanted to give up. I wanted to go back to the comforts of my home. But I can't. Giving up isn't an option. There are states I need to see before I could call it a day. Will I have the sanity and strength to continue was the question.

The previous states' rejections have already taken a toll on me. The endless tears. The sleepless nights. The pain in my chest. What's the point in asking? All I do is end up bawling into the sleeves of my dress and nearest pillow I could find. Did I deserve this kind of treatment? I would like to think otherwise, yet here I am, crying nonstop once more under a mountain of cotton and wool blankets.

I wasn't asking for much. All I wanted is to compromise. Everyone has their own views and we may differ in opinions. But still, I'm no different from them. I mean, they and the southern states argue and fight most of the time, but by the end of the day they drink and dance and have normal conversations like family and friends.

Meanwhile, I'll be alone to myself, watching my people become engrossed in rage over the fact I'm not being accepted. I'll have to deal with being an outcast, watching the others come together all supportive to one another. While the other territories are being accepted into their group, I'll be waiting, enduring countless sessions of arguments and disputes over my role being the catalyst to disrupting the balance of the Union. I don't get it.

Do they really hate me that much? Do they really not care what happens to me? Can I even be a part of their family? What wrong had I done to make them treat me like this? Such questions I will never find an answer to. Knowing this fact, I held my small body tight and pray for enough strength to get through another trip, another meeting, another response, and live to see whether my actions will make a difference in my future or not.

~

January 24, 1820.

After spending the night at an inn in Boston, I headed this late morning to Mason's house. To my surprise, Mason wasn't the person to answer me. A young girl with long, red-orange hair and emerald green eyes introduced herself as Margaret or Maine or Mason's younger sister. She was staying with Mason for a while, tending to his health and helping him with minor work. The lady then waited with me in the parlor, preparing a small lunch of sandwiches, pastries, tea, and coffee while we waited for Mason to make his appearance.

When Mason arrived in the room to greet me, he didn't hold back on disapproving me. Right away, he questioned my motives and asked that I leave his home. At first I insisted on staying, but his menacing glare made me second-guess my stubborn decision. It wasn't until Margaret's help did Mason relent and allow me to stay for lunch. From there, I spoke of my admission as a state.

However, every time I made a point, Mason would always question me with the most difficult questions. I tried to answer to the best of my abilities, but his persistence kept pushing me. It was insane. I received scoffs and corrections from him each time I stuttered on a point or made a mistake on the facts that spewed messily from my mouth. The whole time I wanted to make insults, but I kept calm and try to be reasonable with him. However, he wouldn't budge.

"If you don't mind, I would like your-"

"Absolutely not," Mason sternly interrupt with utmost denial

"Mason. Don't be rude," Margaret scolded him before turning to me. "So, Melissa, do you like the sandwiches I made? They were made with the freshest ingredients this morning, so they should be pretty good."

I politely smiled at Margaret. "They're delicious," I turned my attention to Mason, "Anyway, is there anything I could do to convince you?"

Mason scoffed at the question, "Nothing. Anything you say or do won't convince me you're worth voting for."

"Um... Does anyone want anymore tea? Coffee?" Margaret interjected between us, however, neither Mason or I paid much attention to her.

"I'm not asking for much. All I need is your vote. That's all I'm asking."

"My vote doesn't belong to you. You have no right to use my vote for your gain, and in no way am I willing to give you a chance. Now then, I think you've made your argument, and I gave you my answer. I want you to leave." He glared with loathing.

It was apparent he found my presence to be a nuisance. However, I don't know why, but I continue to sat in my seat. "Please, Mason," I pleaded with softened eyes.

The scar near his left eye twitched irritably. "Didn't you hear me? I listened to your argument, and I want you leave," he told me once again.

However, I stayed. "Please. I really need your help."

"Leave."

"But-"

"Enough!" He immediately stood up from his chair. "I told you this a million times. You're not welcomed here and I want you out of my sight."

I shook my head. "I can't leave. I won't leave. I'm sorry, but I'm really desperate. Please reconsider."

Seeing I was still here, Mason hovered over me, glaring sharply with venom in his green eyes. "Never will I ever support a manipulative, slave-holding bitch. End of story," his bitter words shook my body to the core, sending cold shiver down my spine. I have no words.

I couldn't say a thing to him. Mason had already stormed out the parlor, heading out the door while me and his sister watched bewildered by his sudden behavior.

"M-Mason! Wait! Come back!" Margaret called after her older brother, but he didn't look back at her or at me. He barged out the door and slammed the door shut, leaving me and Margaret alone in the parlor.

I wanted to go after him, and try to get him back to listen to me. But I couldn't. My body was still shaking from what he said. What he said drained whatever strength and courage I had left, leaving behind an empty husk of lost emotions. Left useless and miserable, I lost all hope in becoming a state.

Maybe. Maybe I'm not worthy to become a state. I could barely convince one state to support for me. I doubt after everything I said to every state, their vote won't change. They have their reasons and their own opinions that differ from mine. Of course they would vote accordingly to their beliefs. Mine differ from theirs, so it would make sense they're against me. So why do I still try to make them understand me. I... I really don't know...

Glancing up toward Margaret, she appeared quite upset sitting alone by herself. Now that I think about, she's on the same boat as me, only she was the one the northern states favor the most. I heard her bill is going to be passed next month, and when that happens she'll become a state. She must be very happy being able to enter the Union. Very, very happy...

As envious as I was seeing her rich lifestyle, seemingly living in the comfort of acceptance, I don't necessarily hate her. However, I don't necessarily like her either. I heard earlier, during my sessions at the capital, the states were praising Mason for allowing someone, who now I assumed to be Margaret, to separate from him. I would like to think she had a rough time convincing the stubborn man to allow her to separate from him. I don't know how she done it, but now she's on her way to becoming a state. Must be nice...

I should be praising her, congratulating her on becoming a state soon. Instead, I kept quiet. Considering she's Mason's sister, she must also be against my statehood. She appeared to be nicer than the brute, but who knows. She might also share his temper, possibly lash out at me for disrupting her lunch. It's probably for the best I leave and be on my way. Especially with Mason gone, there's not reason to stay any longer.

"I'm sorry you have to see that," I apologize to Margaret before getting up from my seat, "Thank you for lunch. I should get going now..."

Before I could take a step, Margaret got up from her seat and spoke up in a frantic voice, "W-Wait!" I stopped and turned to look at her. I didn't know why she stopped me, and I waited to hear her reasons for preventing my departure. She awkwardly shifted her feet, looking down at the ground for a moment before blurting, "U-Um... There's some tea left if you want some..."

I stared at her, unsure what to make of her offer. Her kindness seems...forced, however, she didn't appear to have malicious intentions. "I appreciate the offer, but it's best I leave-"

"You don't have to leave!" she blurted.

Her faced turned red when she said this. Truly, when she put it that way made me more eager to leave. However, her cheeks cooled and she spoke again, this time without stuttering, "Sorry. If you're not busy, I would like to talk to you a little longer."

I became dumbfounded by what she said. "Why would you want to talk to me?" I questioned, skeptical on her intentions.

She awkwardly scratched the back of her head. "I mean, you said you're working on becoming a state. I'm also becoming a state, so I thought we should get to know each other properly."

I thought she was kidding on her suggestion. But she seemed to be genuine with her words, reminding me of an innocent child asking if she wanted to play with me despite being a stranger to her. As kind as she was, I couldn't talk to her. Especially considering what she said was half a lie. "Actually, I might not become a state..." I uttered sadly.

She cocked her head confused. "What do you mean? I thought you said you're working on your statehood."

I couldn't believe what she was saying. There's no way she could be this naive. "Weren't you listening? Not only is your brother against it, but everyone else in this region won't support my admission."

"Well, I'm sure you can ask them-"

"I already did!" I barked, closing her mouth shut from saying anymore. Suddenly, a small tear dribbled down my cheek. I proceeded to wipe the lone tear with the sleeve of my coat, hoping she didn't see. "I'm going to leave now. Like I said, thank you for lunch." I headed out the room.

"Melissa! Please wait!" Margaret called behind me.

Before I could reach for the door knob, I felt my left arm being pulled back. I turned to glare at her. Immediately she shrank away and let go of my arm.

"I can help you," she said with a determined look on her face.

I scoffed, "I doubt you can." I held the door knob in my right hand.

"Still, maybe I can convince them to allow you into the Union."

I frowned. "That's not how it works. You can't just tell them to vote in favor of my admission."

She shrugged her shoulders. "It's worth a try."

'Worth a try? Worth a try?!' I wanted to mockingly laugh at her, curse at her dumb, privilege life and everything she stood for.

"You still don't get it," I growled. "While you're fortunate to have this much support, I had to travel from door to door trying to convince the whole New England region to at least give me a chance. And each time I do, I either get turned away or be treated less like a guest and more like an enemy. No matter what you say to them, they'll never trust me..."

I wanted to leave. Get away from her, and her goody two-shoe optimism. There's no reason for her to help me. I'm not from around here nor am I her friend. This is my problem, not hers. I don't get it. I just don't get her. This...This kindheartedness she speaks. I don't deserve it. I have done nothing for her. Why is she doing this? I just don't know. I don't know...

Suddenly, warmth enveloped my body. I noticed it was her embracing me. At first, I was puzzled by this tender gesture. Then I realize the dribbling droplets falling down my face.

"I'm sorry," she apologized in a pitiful tone. "I don't know what you've been through, but I could tell you have it rough. For that, I really want to help you."

I don't know how she done it. I always try to keep my cool. Yet, why are her soft words getting to me? I bit my lip, trying to keep my sobs at a minimum. "You don't even know me."

She nodded. "True. I don't you, but I know you're a nice person. That alone is enough to convince me to support you."

I didn't like what she was doing. Supporting me simply because I was a "nice" person. I would've been a state by now if every state judged me like her. Stupidly childish, but her sweet, gentle words somewhat made me happy. Like a heartwarming house, I felt welcomed for once.

"You're being naive... You know that..." I whimpered in her arms while she held me close.

I didn't know why, but I let myself go. I didn't know how long I cried, but it was enough for her to bring me back to the parlor and allow me to cry for as long as I wish. I was embarassed, yet I didn't care whether she saw me crying or not. After spending nearly a month recalling the hostile backlash from the others, her comfort was more than enough to soothe some of the torture I went through.

Not long after she comforted me, we slowly grew to bond over what we've been through that got us to this point. I got to know a little about her backstory. How she was miserable under Arthur's hold until Mason came to save her and bring her under his protection. How she fought with him over independence in small, silly fights. How she endured the War of 1812 as a captive. How she worked constantly to become a state. How she confessed and got Mason to understand her wish for independence. She told me everything.

Margaret then asked me about my past. I was hesitant, but I told her anyway. She told me mine, and it was my turn to tell her mine. As I was about to reach the end of my story, I stopped. She asked why I stopped all of a sudden.

"You're very lucky to have them support your statehood," I softly smiled, feeling down somewhat telling her this.

"Don't worry," Margaret said with reassurance, taking a hold of my hand, "I'll make sure they let you into the Union. That's a promise." She seem confident in her statement.

As hopeful as she was, I knew she'll be unable to do a thing. I already tried, and here I am. "I doubt you can help me. You're not the one to vote on the matter."

Margaret didn't seem to be discouraged by my statement. "No matter. I'll be sure to give them a reason to allow you into the Union."

I was about to tell her it wasn't possible when a chime rang throughout the room. Turning to where the sound came from, I realized it was the grandfather clock. The face of the clock read six o' clock. Looking out the window, all I saw was the darkened blue sky and the dimly lit streets.

"I should get going," I said, wishing to head back to my inn for the day.

Margaret led me out of Mason's house, escorting me back to my carriage that awaited me.

"Thank you for everything, Margaret," I curtsied.

"Please. Call me May. And no need to thank me." She waved me off with a bright smile on her face, making me smile back happily for once since this taking this trip. We then went on our separate ways, my carriage taking me back to my inn and Margaret back inside her brother's house.

Despite leaving Margaret behind, her warmth still resides, helping me stay sane long enough to endure the journey a bit longer. With my month-long journey coming to an end, I still have two states left to convince before the upcoming vote regarding my statehood. Even if they were to say no, I can at least go home knowing I did my best. Best to finish what I started.

At the inn, I thought on the things Margaret said. I want to- no! I believe she can make a difference. Even if her words or my own don't make it through to them, I'll persist and try again. I'll get through to them one day and find myself becoming a state in the future. For sure, I believe my efforts will come through. No matter what happens, I'll reach to a conclusion and find a compromise.

~

March 5, 1820.

"As decided, the Missouri Compromise is agreed upon in both houses. Therefore, Missouri will become a state alongside Maine. This session is disclosed until stated otherwise. Other than that, this meeting and everyone may be dismissed," Adam (Delaware) stated before banging the gavel to the end of this meeting.

The southern states that surround me were happily cheering for me while the northern states from afar were heading out with frowns on their faces. I looked beyond the southern crowd to see who were the game changers to this compromise being a success. From what I could see, Ivy gave me a brief look before joining Elliot on their way back home. Other than her, the rest of the northern states didn't come to congratulate me.

Alone to myself, I was about to leave the capital, going down the road when I encountered Mason. I thought it was a coincidence, but no. He was waiting to see me, preferably alone. Not sketchy whatsoever.

"I didn't vote for you," Mason blurted without hesitation.

I wasn't surprised in the slightest. "Sorry the compromise didn't fail to your expectations." I was about to walk past him when he asked me to wait.

"Do you drink?" he asked out of nowhere.

What?

"I beg your pardon?" I thought I had earwax clogging up my ears, but no they were clear and clean.

Mason scratched the back of his head, unable to look at me. "Sorry. Stupid thing to ask considering you're a girl," he said in an awkward manner.

"Actually," I spoke up awkwardly, "I can handle a little whiskey."

He looked at me perplexed, but didn't argue. "If you have time, I would like to treat you to some. Just this once."

I didn't know what to make of his offer. I thought I was talking to a different person, having second thoughts on denying his generosity. "Why do you want to treat me? Don't you hate me?" I questioned.

Mason glowered. "Do you hate me?"

I was taken aback by the question. "Um-"

"Never mind. Just come have a drink with me, and you can't say no because this is on me."

He started walking away, heading down the street, possibly looking for a tavern. Despite his past behavior, I followed him anyway. I wasn't following him for the free drink rather than something else entirely. I was about to ask him another question when he stopped walking in front of me.

"Sorry by the way," Mason spoke out of nowhere.

I stared at him puzzled by the sudden apology. "Why are you apologizing?"

With a straight face, he looked at me directly, looking honest and believable in my eyes for once. "When you visited my house, my behavior was uncalled for. I... I was a complete dick to you, and I would like apologize for the things I said. I don't expect you to forgive me immediately or a hundred years from now. I just want you to know my actions were unacceptable, and you deserve better."

Hearing his explanation for his apology, I wanted to believe he felt this way.

"Did Margaret make you apologize?" I asked.

Mason blinked his eyes. "Partially. She made me, but my apology is my own," he confessed.

That explains his weird tone.

"I won't forgive you for now, but I'll take your offer for a free drink instead," I said.

Mason nodded. "That's fine. As long as May can get off my back over this apology, I'm more than happy to treat you this once."

We then continued on our way to a tavern where Mason, true to his word, treated me to a night of drinking. The whole time, barely sipping my whiskey, I observed Mason drink six whole glasses before he started dancing with his shirt off. It was bewildering to know the same state who called me a female dog was now a drunkenly silly man shouting British jargon in every sentence. A completely different man I wasn't use to seeing. I doubt I would get along with him anytime soon, but it's nice to know he's not always an irritated Masshole.

Once I completed some changes to my constitution along with a few other preparations to my home, I'll become a state. When I do, more than likely the northern states won't treat me kindly, at least immediately. As much as I hated what they done to lower my self-esteem, I would like to believe as Margaret had said earlier in our talks together they aren't bad people. Maybe like Mason they have a kinder, sillier side I haven't realized. I'll be around for a while, so one of these days I'll see another side to their personality.

For now, I can relax with ease to an end with these sessions. With a glass in hand, I watch Mason dance from where I sat; giggling at the silly things he spouted by the end of the day.

~

August 10, 1821.

After much waiting, I was finally accepted into the Union. Everyone welcomed me at the capital, praising in celebration to another state into the family. The northern states didn't seem to mind my presence as much as the southern states but they all gave me their blessings.

Amidst the crowd at the banquet, Margaret came to congratulate me personally.

"Thank you. I truly owe you for what you've done," I thanked her, unable to keep my smile hidden from her.

"You're welcome. It was tough, but everything turned out well for us in the end," Margaret giggled, pulling me into a hug as we celebrated in the capital to my statehood.

On that day, no longer was I alone. I was finally accepted and I couldn't be any happier than that. Despite our differences, we were able to get along and find a solution to the problem. Without Margaret, I wouldn't be able to find my compromise. And I am thankful to her for that.

☆☆☆☆☆

+ The Missouri Compromise was a legislation that allowed Maine to enter the Union as a free state and Missouri to enter the Union as a slave state, thus balancing the number of free states and slave states in the Union. Besides solving the power struggle between free states and slave states, the Missouri Compromise was a vital deal that limited the spread of slavery to the North. The boundary that had been established was a truce that somewhat solved conflicts regarding future state admissions into the Union. So, when the Missouri Compromise was nulled later in 1854, it pretty much broke the truce between both sides of the political spectrum, thus why it was such a big deal.

- Some might be surprised regarding Missouri's admission into the Union as a slave state. Indeed, slavery was usually centered in the South, yet Missouri became an exception due to many of its migrants being from the South. Of course, other Missouri migrants were also from the North, some of whom opposed slavery. Such tension fueled between both groups fueled the conflict regarding Missouri's statehood.

+ On another note, the Tallmadge Amendment New York mentioned was originally a piece of legislation that was an attempt on letting Missouri into the Union by limiting the slave institution, including the creation of a border that split the country in half between free states and slave states. Unfortunately, the document was unable to pass both the Senate and the House of Representatives due to concerns on the balance of power between free states and slave states. While it wasn't included in the Missouri Compromise, it did influence the document.

~

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