“I didn’t sleep with Julian,” I said quickly, before Nathan could talk over me again. It felt imperative to say so now, knowing that even the Luna was out here believing the gossip. “That was a rumor that –” “Do not lie to my face, Piper,” Nathan snapped. “I am a respected Beta of the King of this
After receiving Bridget’s warning, I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t risk running into Nicholas, which meant avoiding the places we usually went together. Instead, I ended up in the library with Veronica. Veronica didn’t seem surprised to see me when I joined her. She didn’t even really greet m
“I’m sorry…” I began. She shook her head minutely, wordlessly telling me that my reasons didn’t bother her. “This is your chance to vent before I return to my studies.” I wouldn’t let this opportunity pass me by. “I assume you have heard the rumors about Julian and me…” “That you had sex in th
That evening, after preparing for dinner, I stopped to chat with the guards at my door. By now, they had all become friendly, familiar faces, and though I wouldn’t consider us friends exactly, it was always a pleasure to stop and say hello. It was also a relief knowing the people in charge of mine
I tried to smile as well, at least when the cameras were facing me. Constantly being filmed was beginning to be exhausting. “I recently announced the results of the theater event,” Nathan said. “Well, today, I am excited to announce the rewards.” Suddenly, everyone perked up, like our coffee had
I blinked, staring at Julian. Go on vacation with them? Was he talking about the reward for the theater event? That would explain Veronica’s presence. I stepped back and welcomed them into the room. Then I reminded them, “I’m not one of the high ranking candidates.” Julian shrugged. “Who cares?”
“No,” Julian said. “There’s no way Bridget would start that rumor.” I pressed my lips hard together and lowered my head so I wouldn’t have to look him in the eye. I hadn’t talked to him since the morning out in the gardens. He didn’t know all the new things I had heard from Bridget herself. She
I hadn’t considered this, how my joining this trip would make the other girls feel. I looked to Susie for comfort and answers. She, at least, didn’t seem jealous. Why would she? The man she wanted was staying here. “How does everyone know so fast?” I asked her quietly, while Veronica distracted Ti