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

Bridget a glare so icy even I felt

want you, Bridget. Piper is the woman I love. The woman I will marry. The mother of my soon-to-be adopted daughter and all of my future children. Accept this. Or see yourself

him,

to me and together

My heart soared.

the crowd

was over. Peace

had my prince and a secure future for my daughter. I couldn't imagine anything else I needed

my rounded belly. Within it,

around a table filled with cakes and sweets. In the ballroom,

had

behind Susie's chair. Mark and Susie had married shortly before Nicholas and

this is my life now," Anna said from the chair on the opposite side of me. "But I always knew you were great. Didn't I tell

hurt and pain we'd experienced over the years.

Elva was showing her craziest moves.

Veronica watched with a smile. Those seemed to come easier to her these days, especially since Julian had put

I imagined they would soon