The Luna Choosing Game

“Thank you,” I said. “Please thank them for me, as well. I wouldn’t want to get them in trouble by approaching them directly.”

Till pass on your gratitude,” Charlotte said.

We continued to work throughout the day. When we finally finished, it was time for me to attend a

banquet.

Elva, who had been patient all day, complained loudly that she wouldn’t get to attend.

“You’d hate it,” I told her, hoisting her up into my arms. “A bunch of stuffy people insulting each other

while pretending to be nice.”

“Why would they do that?” she asked.

“1 don’t know, honey.” But I did know. With only 9 candidates left, everyone was on the edge. We were coming down to the wire soon, and all the girls, except Susie and 1, wanted the crown. “People

sometimes have to cut each other down to make themselves feel more important.”

“That doesn’t sound very nice”

“It’s not,” I agreed.

As I prepared for the banquet, I was startled by an unfamiliar maid sticking her head through the door.

Charlotte immediately intercepted her and then sent her away

was that? What did she want?” I asked when

together. “I’m not sure. She didn’t even

the wrong room but that

recognize her?”

up my silver dress in the back.

into my room? What had she hoped

a quick goodbye to Charlotte and the maid, and Mark

beautiful in my stunning silver gown with a low–cut bodice and a

I maybe should have felt like an imitator

descended the stairs, Julian stood

I escort you to the dining room tonight, Piper?”

a brow. “Why?”

want to be the one on your

narrowed my eyes.

it would look best if we walked in together. You are supposed to be

I

not the only one.

well.” I accepted

dress,” Julian

“It is.”

great on

I side–eyed him.

at me. “It looks better on you

Her? Who?