ei's

siasm. Still caught in the clutches of sleep, I yawned and rubbed my eyes, on

chest in surprise while my father chuckled

murmured, gently kissing my head bef

d my face as I recipr

, joining the tender embrace. However, the intens

teased, prompting laughter from both of t

er announced, extending a small wooden box d

minded me of past eras. Its centrepiece was a captivating blue, emerald gemstone, surrounded

d in awe, my voic

, it is time for you to inherit it, my beloved Cercei,"

acing the necklace delicately into his palm, I turned around instantly. With utmost care,

ed with admiration. I responded to her kind words

able and important occasion for our pack," my fathe

I leaped out of bed and snatched my clothes from their resting place. The sound of my parents' lau

pà called out, his words imbue

appeared on my face, undeterred even by Vienna's constant grumbling. I cheerfully tended to my duties and dutifu

dishes, her voice reached me in a s

atitude shining in my e

e had yet to present. "I'll give you my pres

ignited within me. "Y

. "Of course, I do, you silly girl," she c

heerfully replied, my curiosi

ly interjected, interrupting our conversation. "Maria,

d Madàm Cece's back bef

r spirited defiance. At times

m Cece grumbled, her tone cl

had served the Crescents long before my parents, and her

onsequences for misbehaviour will be severe," she warned

no one would desire to see my supposedly repulsive face. Thus, I grew up plagued by insecurities and doubts

. The women wrapped themselves in breathtaking designer gowns, while the men exuded elegance in t

gold bodycon dress that accentuated her graceful figure, she walked with an air of confidence. The dress reveal

dy Shire possessed a kind heart and exuded polite charm. She had visited

e lit up with joy at the sight of her cousin. I observed the heartfelt reun

looking for you," Maria exclaime

st watching-" I

the bustling kitchen. In her hand, she held a crimson mask, which she handed to me. Once I had donn

ng with the hum of conversation and laughter. Some guests were twirling gracefully on the dance floor, their m

tion. The room fell into a hushed silence as he spo

story and prepare for a future brimming with promise. May we form alliances that will fortify our power and strength as the estee

eciation. After his speech, the guests resumed their c

cable taste," I overheard two ladies whispering t

em called out to me. Nervously, I ap

e tray I held and continued talking to her friend.

let me enjoy the musical melodies and witness influential leaders from diffe

d to the kitchen, prepared to refi

out of drinks," Madam Cecè instructed, handing me ye

he strain of carrying the heavy trays. Maintaining focus was cru