Chapter 2 Getting Ready For The Party

"How do I look?" Karen inquired, her heart racing with anticipation, as she emerged from the dressing room.

Her gaze was fixed on her trainer and mentor, Marcus, seeking his approval. She valued his opinion greatly and had made a silent vow to abide by his judgment.

Ever since Charlotte's departure, Karen had been bestowed with the care of the maids, who were tasked with ensuring her attire was befitting for the party.

The moment Marcus set his eyes on her, he could proudly say that she made the right choice in her outfit.

Her hazel green eyes matched with the dark-trimmed lashes that framed them delicately. The iconic red ball gown worn by her, exuded regality, embodying her true personality as a princess and chosen Luna of the pack. Her almond-shaped visage radiated like that of a porcelain doll, while the moon itself seemed to illuminate her captivating smile.

" So what do you think?"Karen spoke, breaking his silence.

" Child, I'm literally speechless and I don't know what to say right now. You look so stunning, gorgeous and irresistible. I bet whoever your mate is, he's definitely gonna fall in love with you once he sets his eyes on you", Marcus brandished praises on her exceptional beauty.

" Thanks for the compliments. I'm feeling quite flattered already," Karen shyly responded, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.

She seemed to be concealing something behind her back, a mischievous glint in her eyes. When Marcus inquired about the hidden object, she playfully tossed a sword towards him with a sly smile.

"There, I've got your sword back," Karen announced triumphantly, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Marcus's heart swelled with joy as he caught sight of his beloved sword, his astonishment evident in his expression.

"Thank you. It's just like the last one. But how did you manage to retrieve it?" he asked, his curiosity piqued as he admired the gleaming emerald stone adorning the hilt.

"A witch has her own ways of getting things done," Karen chuckled, a sense of pride evident in her posture as she stood tall.

"So, Trainer Marc, what do you think? Do you believe they will eventually accept me? I'm feeling rather nervous about it all," she admitted, her fingers nervously twisting together as she sank into a nearby chair, her eyes searching for reassurance.

"I am confident that they will come to accept you, Karen. Your determination and skills speak for themselves," Marcus replied, his voice filled with conviction. "Just be yourself, and they will see what a valuable addition you are to the pack."

As Marcus was in the midst of his speech, a loud honking sound from outside abruptly broke the silence, catching both him and Karen off guard. Karen instinctively sniffed the air, detecting the unmistakable scent of lycans approaching the door.

"I think they're here," Marcus whispered to Karen, his own senses confirming their visitors' arrival.

"This is your night, Karen. Get ready to enjoy it," he reassured her, placing his hands gently on her shoulders and offering an encouraging smile before heading to greet their unexpected guests.

As the door swung open, Marcus exchanged polite greetings with the formidable trio standing before him. Karen's heart skipped a beat as she laid eyes on the three muscular men entering the room. Their imposing stature revealed them to be two gamma werewolves and a striking beta werewolf with piercing blue eyes, who seemed to exude an air of authority. It was evident to her that they were there on her father's behalf.

"Good evening, princess"the beta werewolf, bowed respectfully before her.

" I'm Beta Cullen from the prestigious Blood Moon Pack. Alpha Adam has sent us to ensure your safe passage to the gathering" he said, his tone carrying a blend of formality and underlying strength.

Uhm...okay," Karen managed to mutter a response.

With Cullen leading the way, they silently strolled out of the cabin. Karen felt a surge of joy that far surpassed mere happiness at the thought of no longer being confined to the house. As they meandered through the hallway, the world outside beckoning, they emerged into the clearing where a sleek black Maybach awaited them.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Karen inhaled deeply, savoring the fresh breath of life that filled her lungs.

' God! Is this real? Could it be that I'm finally stepping into the world beyond?' she wondered, her heart racing with excitement.

Running her hands over the rough bark of the trees, she reveled in the sensation of the natural world around her. With a delighted spin, she relished the caress of the grass beneath her feet.

"Princess, we must leave now," Beta Cullen's voice broke through, gently reminding her of the party ahead.

Hurriedly, Karen ran towards the car and opened the door. She paused to watch her lonely cabin for the umpteenth time before entering the car.

The car suddenly came to a halt as they arrived at their destination, the other end of the woods. Karen's eyes were drawn to the sight of a castle nestled amidst tall trees, and she knew that she was finally home. The building was ablaze with vibrant lights of various hues, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The serene tune of classical music added to the allure, soothing Karen's nerves.

Cullen stepped out of the car and opened the door for Karen, taking a moment to admire her appearance and ensuring that nothing was amiss. He was awestruck by her ethereal beauty and could not help but wonder how she managed to maintain it, despite her injuries from training.

"Princess, you look absolutely charming and stunning tonight. I had no idea that Alpha Adams had such a breathtakingly beautiful daughter," he complimented her.

"May I have the pleasure of knowing your name?" he asked.

"Karen," she replied.

"Hmmm, a nice name for a beauty like you. Your mate is truly lucky. After you, ma'am," he grinned, stepping aside to let Karen enter the castle.

"Thank you," she murmured. Marcus followed behind her, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder and whispering.

"See, I told you everyone would love you. Now let's go inside and rock the party," he said playfully, earning a shy smile from Karen.