21

There were always two options for the prize. The money and prestige and glamor were huge, of course. But Heline always offered the winner a chance to forgo the new fated-mate blessing and ask her to grant them one favor instead. The Moon Goddess, one of the most powerful magical beings in our entire world, would give you one wish.

“Has anyone ever taken the favor?” I asked greedily.

Zoe shook her head, a deep frown marring her brow. “No. Why would they? Anything they could ask for is already there in the winnings. You get, like, a dozen different benefits from taking that. Heline’s favor would be one thing, right? Why would anyone choose one thing over the very thing that got them on the show? Over having a new fated mate?”

“To shield your loved ones, stop a war, increase their pack’s standing? There are things more important than money or living in a nice neighborhood.” I explained.

“Well, none of that matters,” Zoe said in a tone that brooked no argument. “I’m not letting you do it.