The Luna Choosing Game

“I have no intention of backing away from the choosing game,” I said,

He stepped closer. “Do as you wish, but know this. I will uphold my duty to protect the royal family from any and all threats. No matter in what form those threats appear.”

His words sent a chill up my spine.

I had thought that the guards were sympathetic of me and Elva, but now I wasn’t as certain. If their leader was someone who wanted me gone, maybe the guards were only pretending to be nice.

“I’m not a threat.” I said. “Neither is my daughter.”

at

“We’ll see.” He glanced around. “You should go inside now. It’s dangerous out here.”

The only danger out here was him, but that was enough for me. I stepped around him and headed inside without another word.

During the banquet, I struggled to keep up conversation, too distracted by Joseph’s words. Julian gave me curious looks across the table, but I avoided returning them. Just as I avoided glancing down the table to Nicholas at all.

I kept my gaze fixed on my food, replying only when necessary, and couldn’t wait until the banquet was finished.

relieve the nanny. Elva was getting ready for bed. I hugged her extra tightly when I

around me. Gone were those that were kind and understanding to Elva and me. Now, we

them. She would try to hide behind me

when I was feeling bold, I tried to approach one to ask for information

was met

it’s a bother. But

just stared ahead, looking straight through me like I

retumed into

like a friend, and I wasn’t about to let her wither away wherever she

the guards

about my last maid? Or do you know where she

her if I could.”

me entirely, but the other gave me a moment’s attention, even

passing glance and

sake of you and your child,

Was

make sure she is okay,” I said, but by then the