#Chapter 11 – Top 10

Lila "As you know, only ten of you will be advancing to the next stage of the selection." The steward’s voice was smooth, almost theatrical, as if he enjoyed drawing out the suspense. "Nine names will be announced first. However, there is one final girl, the only one chosen from a northern pack." A murmur rippled through the group. I felt eyes turning toward me, sharp and accusatory. "You’ve succeeded!" one girl hissed under her breath her voice laced with resentment. I exhaled slowly, keeping my face neutral. I didn’t want to be chosen. I had tried very hard not to be chosen. Yet somehow, they had already convinced themselves that I had schemed my way into this position. The steward began listing the names of the first nine selected women. "Vanessa Gray." Vanessa gasped, then let out a triumphant little laugh, basking in the envious stares directed her way. More names followed – women from various regions, their faces shifting from fear to exhilaration as they real