El Milagro || C. Madrigal

CHAPTER 14

(Illustration above are the outfits that the Madrigal grandkids are wearing for the party. Drawn by yours truly.)

Casita was filled with music, laughter and chatter. People continued on entering the magical house while some who arrived earlier than others were awaiting the start of the party. Camilo was still in his hermano's bedroom, the noise from downstairs can be faintly heard from Antonio's room.

The shapeshifter had already changed into his attire before helping out Antonio with his outfit. A few hours had already passed, the party was about to start very soon. Camilo sighed as he laid on one of the hammocks, staring above him while he tried to contain his excitement.

He tried not to show it, but he was completely excited to see Valentina soon. Yes, they technically see each other everyday. But ever since they started to get to know each other, he seemed to get drawn to her more and more each time he's with her.

The shapeshifter is no airhead. He knows he has developed a very special interest towards the young Esperanza a few years ago, up to now. He can't deny feeling more happy whenever he's around her. It has come to the point wherein both his parents noticed his sudden bright attitude whenever the two were together.

Both Pepa and Felix knew they're middle child had developed a crush as they noticed Camilo's attitude shift from being bored to having interest in the conversation whenever they brought up even just Valentina's name.

Minutes more had gone by. Antonio, who was sitting a foot away from where his brother was laying, noticed one of his Tio Bruno's rats came running towards him. Antonio quickly bent down, picking up the rat gently, and quietly asked what the small creature needed. As they continued on conversing, Camilo stood up and slowly made his way towards Antonio's side, an eyebrow raised with curiosity.

Not long after, Antonio nodded and placed back down the rat, stood up and faced the shapeshifter.

"Tio Bruno said that Abuela is calling everyone to formally start the party." Antonio said. This made a smile form on Camilo's face. "Well then, let's go."

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The girls had finally finished dressing up. All in each of their chosen dresses.

Dolores raised her left hand near her ear, listening. "Ladies, it's time to head out." she slightly whispered. The girls nodded before they all started to walk towards the door. Valentina looked back down on the dress she wore before looking back up. Mirabel neared Valentina, linking their arms together and giving a reassuring smile.

"You alright, Tina?" Mirabel asked, slightly rubbing her thumb on the small portion of Valentina's arm, comforting her.

Valentina nodded, "Yes. It's just–" she paused, sighing. "I haven't worn a dress in so long. And I just feel nervous." Valentina admitted, earning an understanding nod from Mirabel.

"If you're worried if you look okay or not, I can assure you that you look fantastic." Mirabel cheered, but grinned. "I bet Camilo would say the same." she whispered the last part. Dolores heard this and turned her head, making eye contact with Mirabel. They both exchanged a knowing nod while smiling mischievously, then turning their gaze away. All forgetting that Valentina was just beside Mirabel– who witnessed the small interaction, giving them a confused look.

Not long after, the girls had finally arrived downstairs. There were a lot of people chatting and even dancing. Dolores quickly found her amor and went to talk to him, while Isabela and Luisa went ahead and entertained some of the guests. Valentina was now left with Mirabel, who was looking around, trying to search for something. Or more likely, someone.