Charlie cautiously stepped forward, shielding Maggie from the bewildering sights, and began to explain in a somewhat mysterious tone, “You see, Maggie, everyone’s been a bit on edge lately, contrary to their usual selves.”
Maggie turned her head and scanned the “pack” not far away. Among them, she spotted a familiar figure, a recently acclaimed sprinter. Surprise and curiosity intermingled, causing her to pause. “Is he one of the werewolves?” she asked, curiosity lacing her voice. “Can werewolves participate in human sports? Is that considered cheating?”
Charlie’s embarrassment was evident as he sheepishly rubbed his nose, attempting to find the right words. “Well,” he began, with a playful yet explanatory tone, “he can control his speed to not surpass the abilities of an average human. It’s all about maintaining balance, you know?”
Aldrich, who had been attentively listening to Maggie and Charlie’s conversation, couldn’t help but chuckle, mischief sparkling in his eyes. He turned to face Maggie, his voice filled with pride and anticipation.
“You look like a curious little baby, my dear Luna,” he said, his words dripping with endearment. Maggie gazed at Aldrich with eager anticipation, gradually realizing that, from this moment on, she would be an inseparable part of the werewolf community.
As Aldrich strolled into the hall, the crowd fell into a hushed silence. All eyes were drawn to him, as if he possessed some magnetic force, and they simultaneously glanced at the vibrant and stunning woman, Maggie, by his side.
As they marveled at Maggie’s breathtaking beauty and graceful charm, their admiration was hard to contain. “Wow, she looks smokin’ hot, just gorgeous,” one lady whispered, her eyes filled with warmth. Throughout the room, discussions about Maggie ebbed and flowed among the werewolves, their excitement undeniable.
“Hey, look, she’s pregnant!” Someone gasped in amazement, their voice full of surprise.
“Mr. Barrett finally found a partner!” Another person declared enthusiastically.
News of Aldrich’s new love interest and the possibility of werewolf pups being born elicited a round of congratulations.
In the midst of admiring gazes and enthusiastic chatter, Maggie resolved to stay composed. As they entered the luxurious banquet hall, she reached out, lightly gripping Aldrich’s arm.
“Don’t worry, just follow my lead,” Aldrich assured Maggie, his voice barely above a whisper.
“I feel like everyone’s watching me, Aldrich. I’m scared of messing up.”
“Oh, are you worried about accidentally knocking over crystal glasses, my adorable princess?”
“Now’s not the time for jokes!”
“Maggie, take a deep breath, relax. Treat this gathering like any other regular party, and your natural charm will shine,” Aldrich reassured her.
“I’ll do my best,” Maggie sighed, taking a deep breath and gracefully gliding through the crowd alongside Aldrich.
Aldrich engaged in elegant conversations with familiar faces, graciously accepting well-wishes and congratulations from all corners of the room.
“Congratulations, Mr. Barrett!” a lady exclaimed, genuine joy sparkling in her eyes.
“Our esteemed Mr. Barrett has received two gifts,” another person added, their voice full of respect.
The news of Maggie expecting twins added to the joyous and anticipatory atmosphere.
“Twins! That’s incredible!” a guest exclaimed, excitement beaming from their face.
Before long, Maggie spoke up, her voice tinged with fatigue. “Aldrich, my feet are killing me,” she groaned. Aldrich led her to a quiet corner where they could take a break.
Shortly, an elder approached, his expression grave. “Mr. Barrett, we need to discuss an important matter,” he said, signaling for Aldrich to step aside.
Maggie grew nervous, rising from her seat. The elder scrutinized her, his eyes silently revealing doubt.
“Maggie, wait here for a moment,” Aldrich said.
“Can’t I go with you?”
“You’ll be safe here. Everyone knows and accepts you. Don’t worry; I’ll be back soon.”
Maggie sat on a luxurious sofa, allowing herself to relax and sipping on a cool drink. The room buzzed with conversations, laughter, and the clinking of glasses, but within the joyful atmosphere, Maggie couldn’t help but notice a subtle shift in the air.
A pair of sharp eyes, filled with jealousy and hidden intentions, seemed to be drawing nearer, attempting to pierce through the veil of happiness around her. Maggie’s intuition sharpened, and she subtly adjusted her posture, detecting the hostile glances lurking in the crowd. She waited silently, attuned to the changing atmosphere.