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.”

Julian, perhaps you misheard me,” Joseph began.

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

maybe you’d like to release Piper and move a

to argue, but what could he say to one of

charged with protecting?

Joseph complied.

exactly three feet. He continued to glare daggers

likes me,” I whispered to Julian, who laughed,

I

doesn’t seem like he does. I had better stay near you, then, to help fend him off, as it seems my brother

Nicholas again. He was rubbing his forehead

bad for him,” I

→ +15 BONUS

spoken with Lilliana

absolutely the truth. Still, I decided it better not to

agree or disagree.

looked at me and then laughed again.

and she moved at