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.

“And hope that you will continue to look favorably upon

to

again, and if there were

Nicholas said flatly. I knew he was lying. At the very least, we had agreed to be friends. But

answer so quickly

you, Piper?” the

find my own quick answer of untruth. “No. I felt nothing.

ended a long time ago. We are both different people

of Nicholas’s gaze on me. I

ended and the broadcast was done. The producer thanked us both

for our willingness to share such

I felt nervous the entire walk back to my room. However, once I was there, Charlotte greeted

an odd sense of excitement. I knew she often watched the public’s reaction on television, but I didn’t dare hope her reaction was

true?”

nodded. “It is.”

knew it! I knew you

long

okay.” She calmed herself, though her smile remained. “Whatever you say.” She took a step toward me. “The public