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.”

Julian, perhaps you misheard

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

you’d like to release Piper and move a few feet away. Or more.”

up like he wanted to argue, but what could he say to one of

charged with protecting?

to hide my own smirk as Joseph complied. He dropped my arm like it had

three feet. He

whispered to Julian, who

I

he does. I had better stay near you, then, to help fend

again. He was rubbing

for

→ +15 BONUS

you’ve spoken with Lilliana

was absolutely the truth. Still, I decided

agree or disagree.

at me and

for Linda to begin, and she moved at once, collecting

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