The Luna Choosing Game

In sleep, I felt safe and warm, like I was rocking in a boat on gentle waves under a bright sunny sky. Here,

my troubles seemed so far away. I was at peace, distant from those who wanted to hurt me or bring my

family harm.

Once, I had thought myself to be in Nicholas’s embrace. I almost recognized it somehow, the fierce hold

of his arms and the wall of his body. His figure had shaped out since we were teens, but the way h

he

embraced was the same. So gentle. So tender, like I was the most important person in the world.

But then Nicholas’s arms went away.

This good feeling was not meant to last.

Soon, I was stirred awake to the thunderous sounds of a loud argument.

“You purposefully placed Piper into harm’s way!” That was Nicholas’s voice. I’d be able to pick it out of a crowded room, though it wasn’t so crowded now.

“She’s the only one who can feel her wolf. If we don’t follow her, then we have nothing.” That voice was Julian’s. He wasn’t quite as loud, though his words held the weight of shame.

“Then have nothing,” Nicholas growled. “But do not endanger her! You yourself might as well have put the target on her back for Terry to see!”

“She agreed to go along with it. I did not force her.”

“You likely led her on with false promises of returning her wolf to her.”

“It’s not all that false, maybe!”

“Her wolf is gone, Julian. That is that. There is no reason to put her in further danger. Whatever you were doing before, you have to stop. I don’t care what it was or how close you think you were to a breakthrough.”

“Now, Nicholas. If you would calm down just a second

“Calm down? You want me to calm down?” Nicholas sucked in an angry breath. “You say that Terry is involved. What, exactly do you think will happen when the public learns the royal family might have something to do with this?”

might actually get

it would lead to widespread panic!”

not continue to

me and my

body, but I forced my muscles to move until I pulled

on the bed.

noticed me first.

softened and he came closer. “Piper, how are you feeling?”

off his concern. “Whether I ever find my own wolf or not, this truth needs to be exposed, Nicholas. That’s the only way this will end.”

but it was with the same kind of stern warning in his voice, albeit more

Especially when we may not yet have the full truth of

truth is

him. “You have a confession,

“No, but-

I

Nicholas’s attention. “Let us continue to investigate, then. When

You would only be

danger!” I shouted. After, suddenly, I felt lightheaded. I clutched my face

too hot. Like I wanted to pull my skin off. Or, no. I wanted to remove my

His hands were so big and strong, they nearly seared me with their touch. I wanted him to keep touching me. I wanted him to touch me everywhere.

now,” he said in a whisper that sent goosebumps across my skin.

bit back

He moved one arm

his hand back on my arm. I

my clothes.

“Nicholas, please…”

he started to move away, I reached for him with both hands, wanting to keep him right where

but he stilled all

drugged her with?” Julian said. He was closer now too. He looked down at

gaze that

forward, up into the friction of my bodice. The

so I can call

no.. Don’t go…” My voice was hoarse and whiny.

wanted him near.

all over. I wanted him