Page 47 of The Alpha's Forbidden Heir

Inside is the most beautiful dress I've ever seen—a deep emerald green gown that shimmers under the light. Nestled beside it are matching heels, sparkling earrings, and a delicate bracelet.

"What in the world…" I mutter, lifting the dress to inspect it further. The fabric is soft, luxurious, and clearly tailored to fit perfectly.

My phone buzzes on the nightstand, drawing my attention. I pick it up and see a text from Bane.

Bane: There's a pack party tonight. I expect you to wear the dress.

I stare at the message, my lips pressing into a thin line. Right, the pack party. I'd heard whispers about it in the past few days but had completely forgotten amidst everything else.

I quickly type back: This isn't necessary. I don't need all this, Bane.

His reply is immediate.

Bane: It's necessary. The maids will be there shortly to help you get ready.

I sigh, running a hand through my hair. Of course, he'd make a production out of this.

Me: I'm perfectly capable of dressing myself.

Bane: You're perfectly capable of arguing, too. Humor me, Aria.

I groan, tossing my phone onto the bed.

As if on cue, a soft knock sounds at the door again. When I open it this time, three women stand there, their arms full of hair and makeup tools.

"Good evening, Luna," one of them says with a polite smile.

"Luna?" I repeat, startled.

"The Alpha asked us to assist you," the other lady steps inside as if this is entirely normal.

"Wait, wait," I hold up a hand. "I didn't agree to—"

"Please, Luna," the first woman interrupts. "It would make the Alpha very happy."

I bite back a groan, knowing I've already lost this battle. "Fine. Let's just get this over with."

The next hour flies by with the women working quickly but meticulously, styling my hair into soft waves and applying subtle but elegant makeup.

When they finally step back, I can hardly recognize the person staring back at me in the mirror.

"You look stunning, Luna,"

"I'm not—" I start, then stop myself. What is the point?

The maids leave after ensuring everything is perfect, leaving me alone with my reflection. I stare at myself for a moment, then at the dress laid out on the bed.

With a resigned sigh, I slip into it. The fabric hugs my curves in all the right places, flowing elegantly as I move. The shoes fit perfectly, and the jewelry adds just the right amount of sparkle.

I pick up my phone to text Bane again, but there is no point. I already know he won't take no for an answer.

Instead, I grab my clutch and head out, determined to get through the evening without letting him get under my skin.

I head down the hall to Elias's room, my dress flowing behind me as I move. I am not entirely sure why I am going there.

When I open the door, I find him curled up in bed, his small chest rising and falling into the steady rhythm of sleep. The sight of him like that, so peaceful, tugs at something deep inside me. He is my world, the one thing I'd done right in my chaotic life.

His personal maid, Mia, appears in the doorway behind me. "He fell asleep not long ago," she says softly.

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