CHAPTER 133: BIRTHDAY PARTY (1)

Leia stood in front of the mirror, admiring the way the dress hugged her figure. She did a gentle twirl on her heels, the fabric flowing gracefully around her legs.

The crisscrossed straps across her back held the dress securely in place, while the high slit along her left thigh added a bold touch, one that somehow gave her a boost of confidence.

"Is this too daring?" she whispered to herself, tilting her head as she examined her reflection. A small smile curved her lips. "No... it feels just right."

Her makeup was soft and natural, enhancing her features without overpowering them. Her hair was swept into an elegant bun, a few loose strands framing her face. Leia took a slow, calming breath.

"Why am I nervous?" she murmured, trying to shake the flutter in her chest. "It’s just a birthday party and it is not even mine."

Still, part of her couldn’t ignore the feeling.

"Leia, do you still need time?" Kieran gently knocked on the door before asking.

She was quick to grab a clutch and put on the heels. As she opened the door, she spoke, "Sorry, I didn’t mean to make you wait."

Kieran was mesmerized to see her in that black dress. She looked gorgeous, and averting the gaze from her was almost impossible. He and his wolf were both completely flabbergasted by her appearance.

Leia felt strange the way he was staring at her. "Is it not good enough? I know it’s a–" her words caught in her throat as Kieran spoke.

"It’s more than perfect." His eyes finally met hers. " I-I am out of words to define how beautiful you look."

"Thank you for the compliment," Leia said, her smile softening. "You look handsome in that suit too," she added sincerely.

Kieran returned her smile, then extended his hand toward her. She placed hers gently in his, and he guided her out of the room. Once in the hallway, he slid her hand around his arm with care, and together they made their way downstairs.

"Lucien and Ronan haven’t returned yet," Leia said, glancing toward the main entrance as they walked.

"No," Kieran replied. "They’re still out investigating."

Stepping out, they approached the black car waiting in the driveway. Kieran opened the door for her before circling to the driver’s side. Once inside, Leia had already fastened her seatbelt.

Kieran started the engine, then turned his head slightly to look at her. For a second, he simply watched her.

"You ready?" he asked gently.

Leia met his gaze and nodded, offering a small smile. "Yeah. Let’s go."

Kieran pressed his foot on the accelerator, and the car smoothly pulled away from the curb, the night settling around them.

Soon, they arrived at a sprawling villa glowing with lights and energy. As the car rolled to a stop, Kieran stepped out and quickly moved to Leia’s side, opening the door for her. She accepted his hand as he helped her out gracefully. After handing the keys to the waiting chauffeur, they walked toward the entrance together.

"Is this your friend’s house?" Leia asked, her eyes scanning the elegant exterior.

Before Kieran could respond, the beat of loud music and the echoing cheers of partygoers reached her ears.

"This way, please," said an usher dressed in all black, gesturing for them to follow.

"Yes. This is where Jarvis lives," Kieran finally replied.

They were led through the house to the back patio, where a wide, illuminated pool stretched out under the night sky. Guests surrounded the area, some lounging on modern outdoor furniture with drinks in hand, others already splashing and laughing in the water.

Leia glanced around, slightly overwhelmed by the energy of the crowd.

"Finally, you arrived with your mate!" came a booming voice from behind.

Kieran turned just in time to see a man in a white shirt with sleeves rolled up striding toward them. Jarvis, tall and charismatic, clapped a firm hand on Kieran’s shoulder before stepping forward to properly greet them.

"Hello, Leia," Jarvis said warmly, extending his hand with a charming smile.

"Hi," Leia replied politely, shaking his hand. "A very happy birthday to you."

"Thank you," he said with a nod, clearly pleased.

"Here’s your gift, dude," Kieran added, handing over a gift bag.

Jarvis took it with a grin. "You didn’t have to, but I won’t complain."

"You were crying about this wine last time," Kieran teased. "So I had it imported just for you. Happy 27th."

Jarvis let out a low whistle, pulling the bottle halfway from the bag to inspect the label. "Ah, you really did it. I’ve been trying to get my hands on this for months. I’m going to savor every drop. Thanks, man."

He turned his attention back to Leia, eyes gleaming with mischief. "And I’m especially glad you brought your mate tonight. You must’ve stolen my friend’s breath with that dress."

Leia flushed slightly at the compliment, while Kieran narrowed his eyes just a bit.

"Be careful," he said with possessiveness. "That’s my breath she’s allowed to steal."

Jarvis chuckled, raising his hands in surrender. "Fair enough. You’re a lucky man, Kieran."

"So, you’re Leia Solayne?"

A soft feminine voice cut through the air. The three of them turned toward the sound.

A woman in a shimmering silver dress that hugged her thighs approached gracefully, a wine glass in hand. Her blonde curls framed her sharp features, and her eyes were fixed on Leia with curious interest.

"I’m Talia," she introduced herself, lips curving into a polished smile. Then her gaze shifted to Kieran. "It’s been a while, hasn’t it? Seems like you’re still burying yourself in work instead of showing up to events."

Kieran gave a polite nod. "Duty doesn’t take breaks."

Jarvis let out a low laugh. "Aren’t all his brothers like that? It’s a family trait. True workaholics."

Leia smiled softly, stepping in without hesitation. "They work tirelessly to make sure the pack runs smoothly. That dedication is something to admire."

Talia raised her brows slightly, then took a slow sip of wine, her gaze flicking between Leia and Kieran.

"Of course! They do it for our pack," she admitted.

"Well, it’s the time to cut the cake!" Jarvis said excitedly. "Since everyone is here, I shouldn’t delay," he asserted.

Kieran brought his hand over Leia’s back when a waiter approached them with drinks.

As they picked their drinks, Talia said, "How’s Lucien these days? I heard threw her out one of the elders’ daughter from the pack because she tried to force herself upon him. Our Alpha is still hellbent on taking a pure-blood she-wolf, isn’t he?"