The Luna Choosing Game

Olivia’s words struck through me like a fatal blow. I didn’t deserve to be here. I knew that. Everyone

knew that.

they were nobility, all prim

But it wasn’t because I had loose morals or a child. It was simply because and proper, and I was a shadow of my former self. A wolf–less waitress, just trying to get by.

I had no right to waste the princes‘ time.

They didn’t know that I wasn’t here for romance. I had no intention of marrying any prince. I just wanted

medical care for Elva, and to find my wolf.

I couldn’t tell them that, though, so I kept it all bundled up inside of me, buried down into the deepest

part of myself.

Let them think whatever they wanted. They would anyway, no matter what I said.

Olivia sneered, smug like she’d won a victory here.

or anyone else could say another word, Nathan tapped onto his microphone

all of our gazes up to the lifted platform.

first round

that the other girls‘ attentions had been waylaid, I noticed as I looked around that the room did feel more spacious. Even the girls who had

15, yet

continued, “The competition must continue, and therefore we will begin preparations for the next challenge you will face. This time you will each be playing hostess to the royal

garden party

I didn’t participate in any garden parties

burst in excitement. They eagerly whispered

wide smiles on their

throat to silence

given your own table to serve a drink and a selection of hors d’oeuvres. You will be judged on your outfit and hosting abilities, as well as

I knew a bit about food and how to plate it.

impromptu lessons.

the room, far away from the others. She really did seem to hate crowds. This whole competition

I could succeed in this challenge. I had to, for Elva’s sake, and for that of my wolf. I didn’t want to win this

as