The Luna Choosing Game

“Things haven’t been easy between you and me,” he said. “But I’m thinking that should change.”

“What do you suggest?”

He glanced back to Elva. Her flower crown stayed together this time. Smiling wide, she placed it on her

head.

“Let’s be friends,” he said. Surprised, I looked at him. He watched me a moment, before adding, “For

Elva’s sake.”

“I’d like that.”

Just then, Elva ran over to us and offered her flower crown–to Nicholas. He dipped his head low to

accept it.

Later that afternoon, the other girls and I were brought into the parlor for an announcement regarding

the next challenge.

I had been in the room for approximately two minutes when the snickering began. It seemed, from what

I could overhear, that the girls had found out about my secret rendezvous with Julian and were most

displeased.

they nudged me

“Hey!” I said.

“I didn’t see you there. You really should be more careful

sore arm. “You could watch where

notice important things.”

is Prince Julian’s favorite. Though who knows

to

worry,” said a third. “Prince Julian doesn’t take seriously the girls who put out

around with her, have his fun, and cast her aside. The girl he marries will be

girl chimed in, “Aren’t we supposed to be virgins?”

laughed. “Can’t expect the girl with the kid to abstain from sex.”

myself, but I didn’t want to make things worse. I didn’t think there was anything

own agenda.

us, then surprisingly moved away without a word. Of anyone here, I thought she for sure would want

came to stand before me. The crowd parted for her like she’d already been chosen Luna, and all deferred to her as she spoke.

some friendly advice for you, Piper, and I suggest you

isn’t necessary,”

taken seriously

that make

at such a blatant, derogatory

to her, Piper,” said another