Eternal Echoes

Chapter One Hundred- Two: The Invitation

3rd Person POV

The first light of dawn peeked through the curtains, gently waking Michaella. She lay there for a moment, listening to the distant sound of birds outside. Her thoughts wandered back to her meeting with Damien the day before. The way he looked at her, his gentle smile, and that unspoken feeling in the air—it all made her stomach flutter in a way she hadn't felt in a long time.

She pushed herself out of bed, sliding into her slippers, and shuffled into the bathroom. The cold tiles met her feet, and she winced slightly as she turned on the faucet. As she splashed her face with cold water, she stared at her reflection in the mirror. Her thoughts kept returning to Damien, his voice echoing in her mind. She shook her head, trying to shake off the daydream.

After freshening up, she moved to the kitchen, where the aroma of coffee was already filling the space. Elijah sat at the table, scrolling through his phone while nursing a steaming mug. He looked up and smiled.

"Morning, Ella," he greeted, pushing the half-full pot toward her.

"Morning," she responded, her voice still hoarse from sleep. She poured herself a cup and wrapped her hands around the warm mug, taking in the comforting scent.

Elijah raised an eyebrow as he watched her. "So, you seem... distracted. Everything alright?"

Michaella smiled, a bit sheepishly. "I'm thinking about the Gala, what if I mess it up? It's a huge event... and I don't know if I'm ready for that kind of attention."

Elijah reached over, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "You deserve this, Ella. You've worked so hard, and you've been through so much. You can do this, and you'll be amazing. Plus, I bet you'll look stunning in whatever dress you choose."

Michaella smiled, touched by her cousin's confidence in her. "Thanks, El. I guess... I'll need your help picking out something to wear."

Elijah grinned wider, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "Now that's what I like to hear! Let's get you ready for this!"

After breakfast, Michaella found herself standing in front of her closet, staring at the rows of clothes hanging neatly. She had a few dresses, but none seemed quite right for the kind of event she imagined. Elijah appeared behind her, leaning against the doorframe.

"So, what's the verdict?" he asked, glancing at the options.

Michaella sighed, shaking her head. "I don't think I have anything that fits the occasion."

Elijah gave her a sly smile. "That's what I thought. Guess it's time for a little shopping trip, huh?"

Michaella groaned playfully. "El, it's so last-minute. I don't know if we'll even find anything."

"Trust me, we've got this," Elijah said, pulling her towards the door. "I know just the place."

By late morning, they were at an upscale boutique downtown. Michaella was standing in front of a mirror, examining herself in yet another dress. It was an olive green, with a cut to the thigh, She turned, looking at Elijah for his reaction.

He studied her for a moment, then nodded approvingly. "That's it. That's the one."

Michaella turned back to the mirror, smoothing down the fabric with her hands. She had to admit, it did make her feel beautiful—elegant in a way she rarely let herself feel.

Elijah smiled at her reflection. "See? Damien's not going to know what hit him."

Michaella rolled her eyes, but she couldn't stop herself from smiling. "Okay, let's get it."