A vampire's princess

Twenty-two

I woke up and got in the shower. I was only still wearing my robe when I saw everyone having breakfast at the table.

"I have to go to a business meeting", my brother said. "Al, dinner at 8 downstairs."

Before I could answer he had already left. I just changed into some real clothes and joined Mayra, Ivy and Nate.

"So, any plans for today?" I asked Mayra.

"What about we go to Ava's opening of her new fashion store. She's been trying to be the new you around here when you were gone. We should pay her a visit now that you're back, it'd be fun."

"Sure. Could you pick me up? I still have some unpacking left to do." She nodded and soon they left the apartment.
—

Nate walked in when I was getting a drink. "So, how is it? Being back in the city. Your brother told me you ran off to California."

"First of all, I don't 'run off' and secondly, it's none of your business."

"Aren't you a cute girl? Maybe I could tell Ian how perfect his little sister is, you know, especially in bed."

"Or I could tell my brother, who's really caring with me these days, how his best friends uses his little sister for his own needs."

"You know I'd never tell him about us, I'm just glad to see you haven't changed a bit, Lamberts. It's good to have you back." He slightly pushed my shoulder when he grabbed my suitcase and opened it. "I'm sure you can use a hand, let me help you."
——

We arrived at Ava's party. Mayra and Ivy were getting drinks as I spoke to all of our friends here about how amazing my months were in California and how cool it was I didn't spend them on my phone. As soon as Ava saw me she walked up to me and gave me a clearly fake smile. "Aly Lamberts, it's a pleasure to meet you." I shook her hand and looked for Mayra. "I just wanted to make something clear, darling. I organized this party to celebrate my new collection, not you returning home. So if you don't mind." She handed me the mic and read through her papers. "I have to give a speech. You can leave through that door." She was pointing at the exit when I decided this mic was of good use.

"Ladies, gentlemen, could I please have your attention."

Everyone turned to me and got quiet, Ava too.

"As you might have heard, I returned from California, alone. There is need for us to celebrate their spirits, and to celebrate ours."

Everyone started cheering.

"Not here, of course, in a single room with red wine being served with way too loud music."
Everyone started laughing, except for Ava.

"No, it will be an event you won't forget. Now please enjoy this art, while you hope for an invitation. 12 p.m. at the Palace for those invited. I look forward to seeing you there."

Everyone started murmuring about being sure to be invited.

"Now I'd like to propose a toast, to you Ava. Enjoy your evening."

I handed the mic back to Ava as I pointed towards the door she just told me about, "that door, right? I need to make sure my Louboutins fit with my dress."
———

"You look amazing", Mayra said as she handed me my new heels.

"It was Emma's. I borrowed it from her just before we left."

"You two had quite a style."

I smiled at her. "Thanks, now if you'll excuse me, I have some errands to run. I'll see you at 12?"