The Luna Choosing Game

Joseph’s smile was twisted with cruelty. It deeply unnerved me. This man was not a noble himself, simply employed by them. He must have been like Lena, a traditionalist. Someone who wanted to uphold the way things had always been, rather than accepting necessary changes.

I hated that such ideals constantly placed me in danger. I was merely a girl caught up in it all. I had been chosen by the selection. It wasn’t like any of this was my direct choice.

Glancing across the room, I noticed Nicholas locked in conversation with Lilliana. He seemed entirely bored but dutifully gave her his attention anyway. He hadn’t noticed the intimidating way Joseph was

clutching my arm. I couldn’t expect a rescue this time.

I cleared my throat, attempting to gather my courage. Joseph was making threats. I couldn’t simply

cower under them, or he would know how much they affected me.

“Don’t I have to do something wrong to be sent to the dungeons?” I asked.

His eyes narrowed. “It’s only a matter of time.”

“No, I’m fairly certain that Piper is right,” Julian said, suddenly appearing beside me. “Unless they

changed the rules in the past few minutes while I was in the bathroom?” Brow raised high, he looked at

me and then at Joseph. “No? Didn’t think so.”

perhaps you misheard me,” Joseph

“No, I don’t think I did.” He pointed to where Joseph gripped

like to release Piper and move a few feet away.

face scrunched up like he wanted to argue, but what could he say to one of the princes he was

charged with protecting?

as Joseph complied. He dropped my arm like it had burned

exactly three feet. He continued to glare

he likes me,” I whispered to Julian, who

I

you, then, to help fend him off, as it seems my brother is otherwise

Nicholas again. He

for him,” I said.

→ +15 BONUS

So you’ve spoken with Lilliana then.”

absolutely the truth. Still, I decided

agree or disagree.

just looked at me and then laughed again.

was time for Linda to begin, and she moved at once, collecting her supplies. She set