Chapter 27: The Birthday Banquet
Chapter 27: The Birthday Banquet
(Elena’s POV)
After the unpleasant confrontation with Marcus a week ago, he hasn’t returned to Moonhaven Estate. The
silence between us has grown thicker than winter fog.
Now Margaret Blackwood’s birthday banquet approaches. Amber Stone’s message arrives with typical efficiency: “The old lady expects you to attend with Marcus.”
I understand my position as a Blackwood family Luna despite our strained mating bond. I cannot refuse this
command.
I hesitantly send Marcus a message through our mate bond. “Grandmother’s birthday banquet, she wants me
to go back with you.”
Ten minutes pass without a reply. The silence cuts deeper than any harsh words.
I block the mate bond connection and stop waiting. His indifference no longer surprises me.
(Sophia’s POV)
Meanwhile, I accompany Isabella Blackwood at the shopping district to select birthday gifts for Margaret Blackwood. The young woman beams with joy as we browse through luxury boutiques.
“Sophia, you have such good taste,” Isabella gushes, examining an elegant silk scarf. “Grandmother Margaret will definitely love what you pick!”
Isabella has known me for years. She considers me Marcus’s unforgettable first love, maintaining a goddess–like filter for everything I do.
When I express concern that the grandmother won’t be happy if she knows the gift is from me, Isabella nearly
lets something slip.
“Ele-” she starts, then catches herself quickly.
Her face flushes as she reassures me. “I only recognize you as my future sister–in–law. I’ll persuade
grandmother to accept you.”
The incomplete word echoes in my mind. What was she about to say?
After shopping, I return to the Northern Territory Central Healing Institute. The suspicious feeling gnaws at me like a persistent itch.
I stop by Elena’s office, then head to the nurse station. “I need to review Elena’s employment records,” I tell the
staff.
The nurses comply without question. I scan through the documents carefully.
Elena’s marital status is clearly listed as mated. My eyes narrow as I study the information.
“Have any of you ever seen Elena’s mate?” I ask the nurses casually.
They shake their heads in unison. “We’ve never met him,” one admits.
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Chapter 27. The Birthday…
A Prime 2
“We’re not even sure if she’s really mated to an Alpha,” another adds quietly.
I stare at the documents thoughtfully. My suspicions grow stronger with each passing moment.
(Elena’s POV)
Later that afternoon, Pack Nurse Rachel approaches my office with information. “Healer Elena, Sophia has
been investigating your records and asking about your mate.”
I look up from my patient files calmly. “Let her investigate if she wants.”
Rachel seems surprised by my lack of concern. “Aren’t you worried about what she might discover?”
I reflect silently. Even if I wanted Sophia to know about my mating bond with Marcus, he might not be willing
to let her know.
Therefore, I feel no fear about Sophia discovering our connection. The truth would only complicate her
delusions further.
A week later, the Blackwood Ancestral Manor buzzes with activity. Distinguished guests from across the Northern Territory arrive for the birthday celebration.
Margaret Blackwood, despite her age and retirement from active pack leadership, remains a revered figure. As a pioneering businesswoman and an icon for independent Lunas, she still wields strong influence over the
Blackwood family.
She often influences even Marcus’s actions through her wisdom and authority.
Victoria Blackwood and I receive guests in the Great Hall. I wear an elegant light blue dress with my hair styled in a traditional updo.
Light makeup enhances my features as I stand gracefully beside my mother–in–law. Perfect etiquette guides
every movement.
These manners were learned during my first two years in the Blackwood family under Margaret’s strict guidance. The old lady had insisted on proper training for her grandson’s mate.
“Where is Marcus?” Victoria asks sharply, scanning the arriving guests.
I explain honestly. “I notified him but received no response.”
Victoria’s expression turns cold. “Useless, can’t even keep your own mate. Might as well sever the bond sooner rather than later.”
She walks away to join Margaret, leaving me standing alone. The sting of her words barely registers
anymore.
I spot Marcus entering the Great Hall, surrounded by wealthy young Alphas. He wears a light–colored casual suit that highlights his refined, commanding presence.
His golden eyes survey the room with practiced authority. Every movement radiates the cu
leader.
He approaches his grandmother and apologizes. “Sorry for being late, Grandmother.” Margaret responds with surprising honesty. “I’m actually surprised you came at all.” Her knowing eyes glance meaningfully in my direction. I understand the silent command.
ence of a born
Chapter 27: The Birthday
I approach and greet her respectfully. “Happy birthday, Grandmother Margaret.”
The old lady takes my hand with surprising warmth. “You’ve always wanted the moonlight herb cultivation
project, haven’t you?”
Everyone around us expresses surprise. Victoria’s eyebrows rise sharply.
“I’ve agreed to it,” Margaret announces. “Go ahead and pursue it confidently.”
Victoria protests immediately. “Why would such an important project be given to just a healer-”
She doesn’t finish the sentence publicly, but her disdain is clear.
I ignore my mother–in–law’s attitude and focus on Margaret. “Are you truly willing to entrust me with this project?”
I recall how Professor Theodore Ashworth had previously approached her about it but was declined. The moonlight herb cultivation could revolutionize healing practices.
Margaret explains her reasoning. “I couldn’t find suitable candidates and remembered Professor Ashworth’s previous discussion. I’ve decided to entrust it to you.”
Genuine delight fills my chest. “Thank you, Grandmother. I won’t disappoint you.”
Marcus observes my happiness thoughtfully. His golden eyes study my expression with unusual intensity. Nearby guests comment enviously. “The old lady treats her granddaughter–in–law so generously.” “It’s like treatment of a biological granddaughter,” another adds.
“We expected the hidden Luna to be mistreated by her in–laws, but Margaret’s satisfaction is evident.”
At this moment, Isabella approaches cheerfully. She completely ignores my presence and presents her prepared gift.
“Grandmother Margaret, happy birthday!” she exclaims brightly. “I wish you good health, longevity, and all the
best!”
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