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Evelyn nodded in agreement. “And remember, we’re all here to support each other. You’re not alone in this.”

Lana took a deep breath, feeling a bit steadier. “Thank you, both of you. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Marissa smiled, squeezing Lana’s shoulder. “That’s what sisters are for. We’ll get through this together.”

Evelyn added, “And hey, let’s finish getting everything ready. We still have a brunch to put on, and it’s going to be great.”

With a newfound sense of resolve, Lana nodded and wiped the last of her tears away. Together, the three women continued their preparations, the bonds of their friendship and family stronger than ever. As they worked, Lana couldn’t help but feel a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, there was a way to heal the rift with Luna Maybel and bring their family closer together.

They moved around the kitchen with renewed purpose, each action filled with care and thought. The table was almost ready, the finishing touches bringing it to life. The aroma of the food they prepared filled the room, mingling with the scents of the flowers Marissa had arranged so beautifully.

Marissa glanced at Lana, her eyes filled with warmth and encouragement. “You’re stronger than you think, Lana. And you have a good heart. Luna Maybel will see that eventually.”

Lana nodded, feeling a bit more confident. “I hope so. I really do.”

As they put the final touches on the brunch spread, the door to the kitchen opened again. This time, it was Alpha Sahan. His presence commanded the room, his eyes immediately finding Lana. He looked concerned, having heard some of the commotion earlier.

“Lana, Marissa, Evelyn,” he greeted, his voice calm but firm. “Is everything all right?”

Lana exchanged a quick glance with Marissa and Evelyn before stepping forward. “Yes, Alpha Sahan. Everything is under control. We’re just finishing up for the brunch.”

Alpha Sahan entered the kitchen, his imposing presence filling the room. His eyes immediately fell on Lana, who was still wiping away the last of her tears. For a moment, his gaze lingered on her tear-streaked face, but then, without a word or a change in his expression, he turned and walked toward the lounge.

Lana watched him go, her heart sinking. The hope and reassurance she had briefly felt evaporated, replaced by a familiar sense of resignation. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, but the weight of her reality pressed down on her.

Marissa and Evelyn exchanged worried glances, but before they could say anything, Lana spoke, her voice tinged with sadness. “It’s fine. Let’s just finish setting up.”

Evelyn placed a hand on Lana’s shoulder. “Lana, don’t let it get to you. You know how he is. It’s not about you.”

Lana nodded, but her thoughts were elsewhere. “I know. It’s just… sometimes it feels like no matter what I do, I’ll always be just a maid in this house.”

Marissa stepped closer, her expression filled with empathy. “You’re more than that, Lana. You’re part of this family. You mean a lot to us.”

Lana managed a small smile, appreciating their support but unable to shake the heaviness in her heart. “Thank you, both of you. I just… I wish things were different.”

Evelyn squeezed her shoulder gently. “We understand. And we’re here for you, no matter what.”

Lana took a deep breath, gathering her composure. “I appreciate it. Let’s just focus on making this brunch perfect.”

They returned to their tasks, but the mood had shifted. Lana moved mechanically, her mind drifting back to the events of the past few days. She couldn’t help but think about how her life had led her to this point, serving as a maid in the Alpha’s house, always in the background, always unseen.

As they worked, the sound of laughter and conversation from the lounge reached the kitchen. Lana glanced through the doorway and saw Alpha Sahan chatting with some of the guests, his demeanor warm and engaging. It was a stark contrast to the cold indifference he had shown her just moments ago.

She sighed, turning back to her tasks. It wasn’t the first time she had felt this way, and she knew it wouldn’t be the last. But no matter how hard it was, she had to keep going. For herself, and for the family she cared about.

Marissa noticed the faraway look in Lana’s eyes and leaned in closer. “Lana, you deserve more than this. One day, things will change. I believe that.”

Lana gave a faint smile, appreciating the sentiment even if she couldn’t quite believe it herself. “Thank you, Marissa. I hope you’re right.”

With the table set and everything in place, the three women took a step back to admire their work. It was a beautiful setup, a testament to their hard work and dedication. Despite everything, they had created something special.

Evelyn broke the silence with a cheerful tone. “Okay, everything looks perfect. Let’s make sure the food is ready.”

As they moved to the stove and oven, Lana couldn’t help but steal another glance towards the lounge. Alpha Sahan was still deep in conversation, his attention fully on his guests. She turned away, focusing on the task at hand.

In that moment, she resolved to keep doing her best, no matter how invisible she felt. She might be a maid in the Alpha’s house, but she was also a person with hopes and dreams. And maybe, just maybe, one day things would change. Until then, she would hold her head high and keep moving forward.

The brunch began, and the guests started to fill the dining room, their voices a mix of chatter and laughter. Lana, Marissa, and Evelyn worked seamlessly together, serving food and making sure everything ran smoothly. Despite the turmoil inside her, Lana put on a brave face, her professional demeanor never faltering.

As she moved through the room, she caught glimpses of Alpha Sahan, his interactions with others, and the effortless way he commanded attention. It was a reminder of the vast divide between their worlds, yet she couldn’t let that deter her.

Marissa passed by, giving Lana a reassuring smile. “You’re doing great, Lana. Keep it up.”

Lana nodded, grateful for the encouragement. She continued her duties, knowing that in this moment, she was doing what she did best – ensuring everything was perfect for those around her, even if she felt invisible.

The brunch went off without a hitch, the guests enjoying the food and atmosphere. As the last of the plates were cleared and the dining room began to empty, Lana felt a small sense of accomplishment. She had made it through another day, another event, and despite everything, she had done her job well.

Marissa and Evelyn joined her in the kitchen, their expressions tired but satisfied. “We did it,” Evelyn said, a note of triumph in her voice.

Lana nodded, a weary smile on her face. “Yes, we did. Thank you both for everything.”

Marissa gave her a warm hug. “We’re in this together, Lana. Always.”