Species- Gabriel

CHRISTMAS BALL

"What do I wear tonight?"

"Red, Valentino dress. You're the star of the evening. You have to be in the spotlight", Amanda smiled.

"And you?" Anna asked.

"Since I'm modest, a golden Elie Saab dress", Amanda sarcastically replied.

"You, modest? I don't even want to know where you get the money for such dresses."

"Have you ever heard of renting?"

Anna looked at her in amazement.

"Oh God, you really lived under a rock, but nothing surprises me anymore."

"I wanted to tell you that I'm thinking about starting a business renting dresses and organizing events here in the Valley of Wolves. Judging by everything, for now, I'm staying here. Spartana will be an excellent 'springboard.'"

"That's a smart move", Anna commented.

"By the way, I wanted to ask you... the connection between you and Gabriel... does that mean you've become Mrs. Mactire?"

"Gabriel says it's something bigger and stronger than marriage. There's a bond that connects us. We're destined for each other", Anna commented with a smile.

"That's how I feel. What I feel for him can't be described in words. I'm constantly drawn to him. He's my other half."

"Sounds romantic", Amanda commented.

"And it is. Why do you ask?"

"Nothing, just curious. If you have an official wedding, you know who to call."

Anna walked towards Amanda, grabbing her hands.

"I can't describe how much your friendship means to me. You've helped me a lot. You were there for me when I needed it the most. I think it's time for me to return the favor. And, of course, you'll organize my wedding, if it ever happens. Who else would it be? You know you're my maid of honor", Anna said with a smile.

"Stop sweet-talking me. It doesn't suit you", Amanda laughed.

"And what did you mean when you said you'd return the favor? You don't owe me anything."

Anna just looked at her mysteriously.

"Anna, don't do that. What is your brain cooking up now?"

"For now, nothing because everything is going according to plan", Anna answered enigmatically.

The bell rang at the front door.

"I'll get it", Amanda yelled.

Marcus stood there in a navy-blue Hugo Boss suit, a white shirt, and a tie in the same shade. Freshly shaved with perfectly styled backward-combed hair, he looked like a model. In his hands, he carried two bouquets of red roses.

"Roses for roses", he charmingly said.

"Wow!" Amanda looked at him from top to bottom and back up.

"I love men with style."

"You look beautiful, Amanda."

"Thank you, and you too. Come in."

Anna descended the stairs. In a red Valentino dress, bare-shouldered, it clung to her body, emphasizing her curves. Her hair was down in natural waves, and she wore only small, understated earrings.

Marcus warmly looked at her.

"My brother's jaw will drop to the floor."

"Why are you smiling so wickedly?"