Defect of Servitude [Book #1]

?Twenty-Five: Celebration

"Madelyn? Marie's daughter?" The Alpha questioned, his tone softer than I anticipated from the person who led one of the largest packs. Helen nodded in answer to him, and he trained his eyes on me. I was too unnerved to see their gaze deep into my being. The Alpha stepped close to me without further prompting, his mate following behind.

He dipped his head in a bow of respect. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. Your mother is the only reason I'm standing here today, alive and well. I am Oliver, Alpha of the Srovyn pack."

Nadia held her head in the same dip of regard toward me, but her eyes never stopped assessing possible threats. I found that I really liked her. Oliver motioned toward her in a show of official greeting. "This is Nadia, my mate and my world."

The way the wolves regarded their mates was delightful and full of admiration. I couldn't stop the smile that rose to my face. "I'm glad to meet you as well. Benjamin is such a wonderful boy. I could only guess that his parents were just as lovely."

The boy gleamed at the compliment and puffed his chest out in pride. "See, Momma, I know how to have manners."

Nadia's posture relaxed significantly, and she let out a slight trill of laughter at her son. She ruffled his sandy blonde hair in a loving gesture only a mother could. "You're very correct, my dear. Thank you for being so amazing."

Helen gestured them to the guest quarters where most of the pack stayed. Some had chosen to remain outside on the grounds where tents had been set up for them. We expected only two more guests after the Alpha and his family arrived. Darmon and his mate, Bianca, notified the Guard that they might be a little late to arrive. Possibly even after the party was underway.

There were still a few hours left to prepare, but I decided to take that time to outdo myself in getting dressed. Becca had already promised me that she would discuss with the cloth weavers within the manor creating the 'perfect ballgown to make the Prince swoon,' which were her exact words. I knew she would be along shortly to assault me with her beauty expertise.

An hour of alone time passed before Becca knocked at my door. Her purple hair was rolled into curls high on the top of her head, and she was still wearing pajamas. "Hurry! Let me in before someone sees me."

I obliged, and only then did I notice her carrying two hangers with large bags dangling from them. She placed them on the bed before turning to me and scrutinizing my entire body. "Your hair has gotten longer. I like how it's almost to your shoulders. Do you have any ideas on how you'd like it to be styled?"

"No," I answered with wide eyes. The most I ever did to my hair was pull it back during training or duty. "I honestly planned on letting you have complete artistic freedom tonight."

She clapped her hands in joy. "I love you, Maddie! I promise you won't regret it."

I knew she was right.

Becca was perfectly gentle the entire time she heated and pressed my hair. Makeup was applied to my face for the first time since the night Andrea readied me for the auction. I quickly pushed those thoughts from my mind and focused on Becca as she was engrossed with her mission. She only dared let me look in the mirror once everything was finished. She revealed the dress she had crafted for me. I could tell it took extraordinary care to create.

It was made of yards of sheer pastel green fabric, flowing outward from the waist into a massive skirt. Ruffles lay delicately on the shoulders, dipping into the chest, turning into an elegant appliqué arrangement of flowers and vines. When Becca helped me step into it, the fit was perfect. The dress hugged my body, proving it was made specifically for me. The back had to be laced up and tied, complementing the overall look. I felt like a princess.