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.

finally free, I rushed back to my room to relieve the nanny. Elva was getting ready for bed. I hugged her extra

in the guards stationed around me. Gone were those that were kind and understanding to Elva and me. Now, we were glared at whenever

would try to hide behind me

the end of the day, when I was feeling bold, I tried to approach one to ask for information about my

met

sorry,” I said, attempting to be kind “I know it’s a bother. But I haven’t heard anything about her, and I’m

guards at my door just stared ahead, looking straight through me

I retumed into my

wasn’t about to let her wither away

the next morning, after making certain the guards were different this time, I

last maid? Or do you know

her if I could.”

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

for a passing glance and a

and your child, you

did that mean? Was that a

sure she is okay,” I said, but by