The Luna Choosing Game

Chapter 0538

"I don't know anything about running a nation," I said.

"You are learning, and you're learning quickly. Think of all the events, Piper. You've done so well. And the times that you hadn't were because there were plots set against you."

*Plots against me are part of the competition. I should be able to weather them with grace, not let them tear me down like I do."

*No, Piper. There are advisors who should worry about that. Or people like me. All you would have to do as Luna is care about the Kingdom's people, which you already do, and about Nicholas. He would be a better king with you at his side."

I blinked, startled. Here Julian was, talking about Nicholas as if the line of succession had already been decided. *Don't you want a chance at the throne?" I asked him.

Julian laughed a little. I didn't like how hollow it sounded, though it didn't last long. "My father has only ever looked in my direction long enough to scold me. His first choice has always been Nicholas. I'm not sure my father would ever see enough redeeming qualities in me to think I'm a good enough son, let alone a man fit to be king."

I didn't like when he talked about himself like this, as if he didn't carry the makings of a good king, or a good person.

think you would be a fine king," I

on one side. "Thank you, Piper. Truly. But we both know, even if I would be an okay king, I'd never be as good a leader as Nicholas.

to continue to help lift his spirits. But the fact of

But Nicholas

absolutely refused to say so aloud. Julian still knew the answer. My refusal to

my shortcomings and Nicholas's many virtues. If you think Nicholas would

needed to say something. Julian deserved so much better than to feel second best, but this wasn't a topic I could

told you I'm not mad," he said

awkwardness fell over us then. We both turned our attention away from each other and looked out

were talking, their bare feet standing in the soft wet sand as

Nathan directed the cameramen. One came super close to the

to cameras and attention, didn't so much as bat an eyelash at their presence. Nicholas, however, seemed immensely uncomfortable

stepped even closer, Nicholas's stern features finally revealed his annoyance. His brow pulled together and