The Luna Choosing Game

Nicholas and I sat in a pair of chairs in front of a camera. Behind the camera, a producer stood ready to ask us questions. But first, we needed to finish our statement.

“Piper and I ended our relationship three years ago, when Piper dropped out from the academy. It was entirely coincidental that she was selected and brought here to participate in the Luna Choosing Game,”

Nicholas said.

He glanced at me. It was my turn to pick up the pre–written speech.

“We have been careful not to allow our past to interfere with the selection whatsoever. In fact, most of our time here at the palace has been spent apart.”

I had originally mentioned about how I had gone on two dates with Julian, but Nicholas had made me

cut it.

“But it would help sell our case,” I’d said. “If the world thinks I’m more into Julian…”

“Being into Julian would not eam anyone any favors,” he’d replied, stern, and had refused to speak more

about it. “I won’t be swayed.”

He was always so touchy about Julian that I decided to let it drop. Hopefully the public could make that connection on their own, without needing to be reminded.

as a candidate,” Nicholas said now. “And hope that you will continue to look favorably upon the royal family, who strives only to bring peace and prosperity to our

who then began to ask us

if there were any

At the very

answer so quickly and flatly.

Piper?” the

hurt, I used it to help find my own quick

a long time ago. We are both different

felt the heavy weight of Nicholas’s gaze on me. I ignored it as best I

the broadcast was done. The producer thanked

share such vital information with the

walk back to my room. However, once I was there, Charlotte

I knew she often watched the public’s reaction on television, but I didn’t dare hope her reaction was based solely

it true?”

“It

knew you both

was a long time ago, Charlotte.”

“Whatever you say.” She took a step toward