Chapter 28 The Preparation
745 Words
As for Liora, she doesn't believe in delays. This is because it had a way of creating doubt, and when executed, gives room to rebellion. She was the kind of woman that doesn't tolerate rebellion, especially not when everything was finally aligning to her plans.
She stood in the middle of the living room, her arms folded, as her eyes roamed to scan every detail. She didn't want anything to be missed out. Just perfect the way she wanted them. From the decor samples on the nearby table, to the fabric swatches, and even ceremonial markings. She went ahead to make the guest list, even though send knew some would still stroll in uninvited.
To her, the greater in number, the more merrier. Everything has to be perfect to represent. There would be no mistakes, no interruptions, and no questions.
"This silver trim seem too dull for my liking," she had said sharply. The lady that brought the decor material became stiff, wondering what would ever satisfy her.
"But..."
"I said they are too dull, and I need them changed," Liora cut in, her voice firm and final. "Fix it immediately."
"Yes ma'am."
The woman quickly carried them away, send even wondering why she was making so much preparations when there are still some days ahead. She hurried away, taking them with her. Liora exhaled slowly, as she continued inspecting the place.
The ceremony wasn't just about observing tradition. In a way, it still wasn't about reputation. And still has nothing to do with Elara. It was something way bigger, and deeper, that many knew nothing about. It was something she had spent years behind the scenes trying to create.
"They won't understand why I'm doing all these," she murmured to her. No one would understand her intention, not even Elara or Selene, and definitely not the pack members.
To many others, it was a mother doing her best to correct a mistake, about forcing a girl to face consequences. But Liora knew way better than that.
It was about her being in control, for everything to align to her design. She was making sure everything goes a certain path, before it's late for anything to be done.
"Everything must happen on time."
Footsteps started approaching, from the direction of the hallway. Liora turned slightly, trying to figure out who it was. Then, she saw Selene, but she was alone. That was unusual, as she had never seen her without Elara. The both of them are inseparable, always moving together, big with the way she was walking, something seemed to be off.
"Good afternoon, ma," Selene greeted her as usual in a polite manner. Liora gave a small nod to acknowledge her greeting.
"Selene."
Her eyes lingered on her for a few seconds, observing and assessing her.
"Where's Elara?" She asked her.
Selene hesitated for a few seconds, which was quite unusual.
"She should be in her room," that was all she said. She wasn't specific on why she was alone in her room. On a normal day, both of them would have been together, laughing, talking, and attached to the hip like two Inseparable pair.
But right now, there was a distance. Liora noticed everything, right from the first day it started, but she paid no attention to it. All she wanted was to get that which she purposedbin her heart.
"Are you not going to wait a little longer, and spend time with her as usual?" She asked casually to get her reaction.
Selene forced a smile, trying to act like everything was still normal.
"We're not...just in the mood to spend much time today. Maybe next time.'
Liora hummed, because she wasn't surprised, and certainly not concerned. To her, it was a good thing, as Selene's attachment to get could complicate things. She might end up getting Elara to change her mind, or given her ideas that might run her plans.
If for anything, she wanted Elara focused, and isolated from the rest of the pack, especially selene. That was it would be much easier to guide and direction her. She could easily get her to do her bidings.
"I think it's a good thing if you would focus on yourself for the mdin time." Liora started lightly. "Elara had a lit on her plate that needs urgent attention.'
Selene nodded slowly, already understanding that her presence isn't needed that much.
"I know about that. I will follow your advice." Selene replied.
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