Chapter 98

\*\*LUCIANA'S POV\*\*



"Guess who got the last slice?" I screamed excitedly, and grabbed the final slice of Pizza from the box.



Jericho's lips curled into a girly pout, causing a chuckle to escape from my lips. "We both know you cheated."



"I didn't" I defended with a mock-chuckle.



Jericho's pout deepened, his eyes sparkling in amusement. "You totally did. The game was supposed to be fair and square."



I shrugged, taking a triumphant bite of the pizza. "Maybe I just outsmarted you," I teased, and shut my eyes, savoring the flavor.



Celine laughed, watching us from the opposite couch, momentarily forgetting about the magazine she was reading. "You both are impossible… bickering over a slice of pizza."



Jericho's face contorted in mock offense. "Hey... I'm a perfect gentleman, well…except when it comes to pizza."



I giggled, nearly choking.



"I'm glad I'm the only one who thinks you two are ridiculous," she said, smiling. "I know pizza is for serious business to Jericho, but the bickering?"



As we enjoyed the lighthearted moment, Celine's gaze drifted to Jericho's, then to the clock. "Uhm… Luciana, didn't you make mention of some of Alpha's party scheduled for seven ?"



I nodded, my excitement resurfacing, this time with a little bit of nervousness. "Right" I said, finishing my pizza. "I'll go get dressed then."



Jericho stood up, offering a mock-bow. "I'll just excuse you ladies… Celine, please help Luciana get ready for the party, heads need to turn."



He walked out of the living room, and Celine turned to me. "Let's go, I'll help with your hair and makeup... You have what to wear?"



"Arielle has got me something to wear already." I replied, and she nodded, making her way upstairs while I followed behind.



This is how life has been this past week. 



I've been home with Celine and Jericho, literally having the best moments of my life.



Arielle gave me a week's break. I'll be resuming work tomorrow, so after the party, I might just move in with her.



As I followed her upstairs, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this past week. It has been a much-needed break from the chaos of my life, but for how long will I keep on running away, or taking breaks?



I really appreciate Celine for being an amazing host.



As much as I was grateful for the break, I knew it was coming to an end and tomorrow I'd be back to work, and who knew what new challenge lay ahead, since my life seemed full of ups and downs.



For now, I'll make sure I enjoy the party tonight. Whatever made Alpha Jeremy invite me though.



...



I stood in front of the mirror, admiring Celine's handiwork. My hair, usually packed into a ponytail, was let cascade down my back in off waves, and simple makeup, in contrast to my regular mascara and lip gloss, accentuated my features perfectly.



Celine smiled, stepping back to examine her work with a smile. My gaze suddenly caught a small dimple on her right cheek. Although I've been here for a while, I've never really noticed it.



"You look stunning Luciana" she grinned with a proud smirk, breaking me out of my thoughts. 



"Thanks to you" I said with a broad smile. "And Arielle's amazing taste."



The dress Arielle got me, hugged my curves in all the right places, its emerald green designs sparkling in the light.



"I'm sure your date won't be able to take his eyes off you." She winked.



Date? Wait, I'm supposed to have a date?



I faked a laugh, not wanting to get taunted. 



"So he's picking you up, right?" She wriggled her brows teasingly. "Wait, let me guess...it's the guy from the other day that brought you....emm Damon?"



My cheeks reddened at the mention of Damon, but it wasn't even his party and I doubt if he got invited.



"Not him" I muttered under my breath, somehow knowing that she could hear me. "It's Supreme Alpha Jeremy."



"Of the brown wolves?" She suddenly asked.



I was slightly shocked, before regaining composure. "You know him?" 



"Yes" she replied with an awkward chuckle. "But that was a long time ago...you got invited to his party?? That's cool."



I nodded slowly, not sure what my response should be.



"He's a nice guy, trust me" she winked, patting my hair like a kitten.



We heard a whistle from the doorway, and turned only to see Jericho wearing a smug smile.



Gracious God, I hope he doesn't tease me.



"Luciana, you're sure going to break hearts tonight...including mine."



And he just did.



I rolled my eyes, laughing at his tease, that's literally the only way to get him off your back.



"Behave Jericho," Celine chimed in, saving me from further teasing.



I clicked my tongue at Jericho, who replied with an eye roll. Most times I can't help but wonder who's older between Celine and Jericho.



They both look so much like teens, and they're not. I used to think only Vampires don't age, but at this point I doubt if Werewolves age too.



A sharp honk sounded outside. 



"Your date is here," Celine squealed. 



"Time to go slay them", Jericho winked.



Wait, what's going on? I don't have any dates, so who's outside?



I stared out through the window, and found a rather familiar car.



"Damon?" I whispered. 



"Stop keeping him waiting" Celine cautioned, and I nodded.



She led me out of the room, downstairs as though I was the newest bride alive.



"I'd have loved to escort you out, but I'm sorry I can't" Celine mumbled once we got to the door.



"Celine's got a lot to handle, just have fun" Jericho winked and I nodded, walking outside alone.



I stepped outside, my heart racing.



Damon stood by the car, dressed casually.



Isn't he attending the party?



He got in a fight with Alpha Jeremy the last time, I guess that's why he didn't get invited.



"Hey" he said, opening the door for me.



"Hi" I smiled, sliding in. "I thought I was supposed to join them at that mansion?"



"Change in plans, Alpha Duncan asked me to escort you instead."



My mind whirled in confusion. 



Why would Alpha Duncan ask Damon? Not even Arielle?.



As we drove away, I couldn't help but steal glances at him.



"You look stunning, but the way," he said, his eyes locked on the road.



"Thanks" I replied, feeling my face flush.



Damon pulled up at the grand mansion, its elegance worth the amusement and a definition of perfect, in all brown.



"Here we are," he said with a difficult to decipher expression.



I nodded, feeling a pang of discomfort. So he was only supposed to bring me here and leave. That's not fair.



"Thanks for the ride" I mumbled.



As I stepped out, Damon followed, his gaze scanning the surroundings.



It was more or less a splash of wealth, reaching out to all its intricacies and depths, with no corner left unattended.



I was still admiring the mansion when I felt a powerful energy envelop me, commanding so much respect. 



I almost fell on my face, as a gesture of respect, but my legs felt rooted to the ground, as though the person with the power was stopping me from doing so.



My senses tingled, the energy was too familiar to be that of a stranger's.



Before I could turn, strong arms encircled my waist, and a gentle kiss landed on my forehead, sending cold shivers down my spine.



"Welcome Luciana, this...is going to be a long night..."