The Luna Choosing Game

Instead, the Queen pulled me into a hug. It was uncomfortable and brief, but a hug none the less. From the Queen, this was a tremendous breach of decorum, and I froze, unsure how to react. Even Nathan, standing dutifully as his King's side seemed shocked.

"I have misjudged you dearly," the Queen said. She pulled away to look at me. "I will not make that error again."

The King offered a small smile. "Your engagement to our son has our full approval."

We were going to marry either way, but having their blessing certainly made it all easier.

*Thank you," I said.

Nicholas shook his father's hand. "Thanks, Dad."

In the quiet moment that followed, I glanced over the remaining crowd. Charlotte was there, waving at me, along with many other servants and staff that I recognized.

Then I saw her, there at the edge of the crowd. The only frowning face in a sea of smiles.

Bridget.

As Nicholas and I stepped back from the King and Queen, Bridget saw her opportunity and stormed toward us. Even with Elva in Nicholas's arms, she still had the audacity to reach out and grab at Nicholas's sleeve with both hands.

is all an act. I want you. You are the perfect man for me. How could

a glare so icy

I will marry. The mother of my soon-to-be adopted daughter and all

him, expression

together we walked away

My heart soared.

the castle gates, the crowd began to

over. Peace

daughter. I couldn't

year later, a rub at my rounded belly. Within it, a new prince or princess

wonderful," Susie said from one side of me. We sat around a

had just been

brooding expression matched that of his father's, who stood just behind Susie's

the chair on the opposite side of me. "But I

experienced over the years. Never again. I certainly wasn't about to leave my dear friend

floor, Elva was showing her craziest

with a smile. Those seemed to come easier to her these days, especially since Julian had put that engagement ring on

Jessica were noticeably absent, though I imagined they would