Page 232 of Halfblood Deceived

“Ooh! Put it on!” Evan enthused. “I need to see it.”

“What for?” Andreas asked. “You’re gayer than a pride parade.”

“I, unlike others, possess an appreciation for elegant couture,” Evan said, giving a pointed look at Andreas’ usual outfit of tactical pants and sweater.

Andreas imitated Evan’s snobbish tone. Luce giggled.

Aella gulped and placed the lid on the box. “I have no occasion to wear it.”

Kamilla smiled slowly. “Well, there is a masquerade ball coming, and you are invited.”

Aella blinked. “A masquerade ball?”

Kamilla nodded. “Held every year on Hallow’s Eve. It’s a charity ball. With the substantial proceeds, we help to fill up the coffers of the free housing facilities and the food pantries for all the city.”

“We’ll be there,” Sebastian said. “It’ll be my first ball in Darkwood.” He patted Aylana’s leg, giving her a sultry smile. “And my first chance to see this sexy female in something other than jeans and leggings.”

Aylana shrugged. “I might wear leggings.”

Sebastian bit her earlobe. “Still delicious.”

Aylana flushed.

Aella bit her lip, flicking a questioning glance at Diana.

Her sister wrinkled her nose. “Balls are not my thing. I’ll be taking care of Hecate for Kam that night. So have fun if you want, sweetie. It could be a great way to end your leave, no?”

Aella nodded. “Will you be there too?” she asked Zeydan.

He smiled. “I am invited. And I would be honored if you would let me escort you that night.”

Her throat went dry. She swallowed. “Alright.”

“Huzzah!” Gabby exclaimed. “I’m going too, even though I can’t get properly wasted.” She rubbed her belly.

“You can have as much of me as you want, my love,” Lex all but purred.

Gabby grinned, flashing double canines. “I’ll take you up on that offer.”

“I’ll be sitting this one out,” Evan said. “But you kids have fun.”

Luce took Evan’s hand in hers. “I know you’ve been staying home more than usual because of me, Uncle Evan, but you don’t have to. You need some adult fun and company.”

“Even Luce has noticed you need to get laid, mate,” Lex teased.

Andreas leveled a murderous glare at Lex. “Watch your mouth around my daughter, you arse!”

Luce sighed. “Don’t be dramatic, Dad. I’ve overheard you say the same thing to Uncle Zeydan and Auntie Mari several times. And I am aware that adults have needs.”

Andreas’s eyes widened with horror. He flushed. “Goddess.”

A choked snort escaped Aella.

Andreas scowled at her, too, but it didn’t intimidate her as much as usual.

Everyone was amused at Andreas’s expense, Kamilla included, in her regal, poised way.

“Would you like to go for a walk around the grounds, Aella?” Zeydan asked. “I’d like to give you my gift.”

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