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.

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

on, I noticed a change in the guards stationed around me. Gone were those that were kind

afraid of them. She would try to hide behind me when we got too

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

met with

it’s a bother. But I

door just stared ahead,

I retumed into

been someone almost like a friend, and I wasn’t about to let

making certain the guards

do you

her if I could.”

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

passing glance

you and

mean? Was

only want to make sure she is okay,” I said, but by then the guard had gone back to pretending