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.

would be a fine

genuine again, quirking higher on one side. "Thank you, Piper. Truly. But we both know, even if I would be an okay king, I'd never

him, to continue to help lift his spirits. But the fact of the matter was,

would be a fine king. But Nicholas would make

to say so aloud. Julian still knew the answer.

know my shortcomings and Nicholas's many virtues. If you think Nicholas would rule better than me, you're

Julian deserved so much better than to feel second best, but this wasn't a topic I

he said

hint of awkwardness fell over us then. We both turned our attention away from each

in the soft wet sand as the waves gently washed

close to the pair, practically sticking the camera

used to cameras and attention, didn't so much as bat an eyelash

Nicholas's stern features finally revealed his annoyance. His brow pulled together