Chapter 3 The Preparation

The moment Lillian sauntered into the restaurant, flanked by her ever-present entourage of giggling sycophants, my stomach churned. She was impossible to miss, with her high-pitched laugh and that self-satisfied air she always carried. As soon as her gaze landed on me and Susan, her lips curved into a smile so fake it made my skin crawl.

Here we go.

"Hey there, Vanny," she cooed, her voice dripping with feigned sweetness as she strutted over to our table. "I almost didn't notice you. How's our little Alpha's daughter doing?"

The emphasis on "little" wasn't lost on me. I felt my blood boil, but I forced myself to stay calm. Losing my temper in public wouldn't do me any favors. So, I plastered on my own fake smile, every bit as sharp as hers.

"Oh, it's you," I said sweetly, tilting my head in mock surprise. "Hey! I'm alright. I almost didn't recognize you with all that artificial stuff on your face."

Susan, sitting across from me, pressed her lips together to stifle a laugh, her shoulders shaking slightly.

Lillian's smile faltered, her perfectly plucked brows knitting together as anger flashed in her eyes. For a moment, I thought she might actually retaliate, but she didn't. Instead, she just stood there, her minions shifting uncomfortably behind her.

Satisfied, I turned back to Susan, completely dismissing Lillian as I resumed our conversation. My voice was light and carefree, as if she weren't standing there fuming.

I heard her scoff, loud and dramatic, before she stormed off, her heels clicking angrily against the tiled floor. The sound was like music to my ears.

Once she was gone, I exhaled slowly and shook my head. "Unbelievable," I muttered, finishing the last bite of my meal.

Susan grinned. "That was epic, Nessa. Did you see her face?"

"Hard to miss," I said with a smirk. "She'll live. Maybe."

We paid our bill and stepped out of the restaurant, parting ways with a quick hug and a promise to meet up later at the party. By the time I got home, it was already five o'clock.

The house was buzzing with activity as preparations for the evening kicked into full gear. Decorations were being put up, catering staff were setting up tables, and the air smelled faintly of fresh flowers and roasted meat.

I headed upstairs, my heart racing as the excitement of the evening began to settle in. Tonight was the night I'd waited for my entire life. The party would start at ten, giving everyone plenty of time to eat and mingle before midnight, when the main ceremony would take place.

This was it. Time to prepare for the most important night of my life.

~~~~

As I opened the door to my room, I was met with an unexpected sight-my mom and a few unfamiliar faces bustling around like a small army of preparation.

"What's going on?" I asked, glancing at the strangers before directing my question to my mom, who was practically glowing with excitement.

"Sweetie," she said, her bright smile lighting up the room, "they're here to help you get ready for your big day." Her joy was infectious, even more so than my own excitement.

"Alright then," I said with a chuckle, unable to resist her enthusiasm.

Mom gestured toward the two women standing near the vanity, their resemblance uncanny. "This is Victory, your hairstylist, and Valerie, your makeup artist."

I tilted my head, studying them. "Are you two...?"

Victory caught the curiosity in my eyes and smiled. "We're twins."

"That's awesome!" I exclaimed, grinning. I'd always been fascinated by twins, secretly hoping the Moon Goddess might bless me with a pair of my own one day.

"I'll leave you in their capable hands," Mom said, giving me a quick hug. As she reached the door, she turned back with a teasing smile. "Behave, Nessa."

With that, she was gone, probably off to ensure everything downstairs was perfect before preparing herself.

Victory and Valerie wasted no time. Over the next five hours, I sat through what felt like a slow, meticulous transformation. My hair was tugged, pinned, and styled, while my face was carefully painted to perfection. The process was torturous-Victory's firm grip and Valerie's endless brushes made me want to squirm-but they were clearly professionals.

Finally, they stepped back, examining their work as if I were a masterpiece.

"Perfect," Valerie declared, satisfaction evident in her tone.

Victory nodded in agreement and helped me into my emerald-green halter gown. As I turned toward the full-length mirror, I gasped, my hand flying to my mouth.

Was that... me?

My hair cascaded in elegant waves down my back, with delicate jeweled pins sparkling amidst the curls. My makeup was flawless, enhancing my features without overpowering them. And the dress-it shimmered like starlight, hugging me in all the right places and flowing gracefully to the floor. I looked breathtaking, almost unrecognizable.

"You look stunning," Victory said with a smile, while Valerie nodded proudly.

"Thank you," I whispered, still staring at my reflection.

They bid me goodbye, promising to return for the ceremony after preparing themselves. Once they were gone, the room felt quieter, the weight of the evening settling on my shoulders.

I couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness as I thought of Lucas. He wouldn't be here tonight. But maybe I could take a few pictures and send them to him later. The thought brought a small smile to my lips.

After gathering my thoughts, I adjusted my dress one last time and made my way downstairs. The soft hum of conversation floated up, accompanied by faint music.

As I descended the staircase, my parents came into view. My mom saw me first and gasped, her eyes wide with admiration.

She looked radiant herself, dressed in a dazzling gold ball gown that sparkled under the light. The intricate design of her dress, paired with her regal demeanor, made her every bit the Luna she was.

My dad stood beside her, a proud smile gracing his face. He looked sharp in a classic black tuxedo and crisp white shirt, the perfect Alpha image.

"Nessa," my mom breathed, her voice filled with emotion, with tears glistening in her eyes. "You look... breathtaking."

"Absolutely stunning," Dad added, his eyes brimming with pride, shining with a few tears.

Their words warmed me, and for a moment, the nerves melted away. Tonight, everything was perfect, and I was ready to embrace it.