Page 24 of Alien Charming

“Two pounds of stewing beef, please.” Her voice came out steadier than usual.

As she waited, she caught sight of her reflection in the shop window. The same severe hairstyle, the same plain dress, the same girl the village had always ignored or pitied. Yet Seren had looked at her as if she were something precious. He’d spoken to her as if her thoughts mattered. He’d kissed her as if he couldn’t help himself.

Mr. Collins slapped the wrapped package on the counter. “Four silver.”

She counted out the coins, remembering how Seren had bristled at her aunt’s dismissive comments. How he’d sought her out after the dinner. How his big hands had been so gentle when they cradled her face.

“You need something else?” Mr. Collins asked impatiently.

“No thank you.” She placed the meat in her basket and turned to leave.

Outside, she paused to check her list. The usual whispers followed her, but for once they didn’t pierce her heart. Let them think what they would. Someone had seen past all that. Someone had looked at her and found her worthy of attention, of conversation—of a kiss that still made her cheeks warm at the memory.

“Elli!”

The friendly voice interrupted her thoughts, and she turned to see Bella hurrying towards her, her face flushed with excitement.

“Have you heard the news?” Bella skidded to a stop, practically bouncing on her toes.

“What news?”

“Tessa is having a bonding ceremony with her Vultor mate. Apparently it’s their version of a wedding, and the whole village is invited!” Bella’s eyes were wide with excitement. “Can you believe it?”

“The whole village?”

“That’s what I heard. Not that everyone will go of course, but my father thinks it’s a great idea. He says weddings are much more interesting than timber rights and hunting territories.”

“He’s probably right,” she said absently. “When is the ceremony?”

“This weekend! It’s going to be at the clearing by the north woods. I’m even going to wear a dress.” Bella laughed. “The yellow one with the lace collar. What will you wear?”

“I… I’m not sure I’ll be going,” she said hesitantly.

“Why on earth not? The Vultor are handling most of the arrangements, but I’m sure someone mentioned your aunt participating as well.”

“That doesn’t mean she’ll want me to attend,” she said quietly, and Bella’s face softened.

“I’m sure she will. It’s practically a diplomatic event.”

Was Bella right? She bit her lip, thinking of Seren. He was sure to be there, and the thought of seeing him again, especially after that kiss, sent a flutter through her stomach.

She bid farewell to Bella and hurried home, her hopes rising that she’d be attending the celebration. If nothing else, her aunt would probably want to bring her along to assist her in whatever tasks needed completing. She allowed herself to dream about it, and by the time she reached the house, her cheeks were flushed from more than just the brisk walk.

Aunt Margaret was in the parlor, sorting through correspondence at her writing desk.

“You’re late,” her aunt said without looking up.

“I’m sorry, Aunt Margaret, but there was exciting news in the village. Tessa is having a bonding ceremony with her Vultor mate. The whole village has been invited.”

Her aunt’s pen paused mid-stroke. “Indeed.”

“It’s this weekend, in the clearing by the north woods,” she added, trying to sound casual. “Bella says it’s practically a diplomatic event now.”

“I’m aware of the situation,” her aunt said sharply. “I received the invitation this morning and agreed to participate.”

“Then we’ll be attending?”

“Iwill be attending in my position as the mayor.” Her aunt finally looked up, her gaze assessing. “You will remain here.”

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