They return to the house to find a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere, devoid of tension. Conversations flowed freely, laughter echoed through the halls. Calista approaches Allegra and embraces her. "I'm sorry," she says sincerely. Allegra, overwhelmed with emotions, bursts into tears. "I'm also sorry… I almost killed you," she manages to say amidst her tears. Calista looks at her, her expression softened. "Maybe, but you've got skill. I've never seen a vampire use fire like that, or use fire at all," she remarks, trying to lighten the mood. Declan, sensing the need for space, gently nudges Allegra towards Calista and steps away, leaving the girls to talk. "Remind me not to anger you again," Calista says with a chuckle, trying to ease the tension further. Allegra giggles in response. "I'm sorry for what I said. I've apologized to Donovan," Calista adds. "Where is he?" Allegra inquires. Calista shrugs, "He's with the boys by the wine cellar." her gaze searching the room until it lands on Donovan, who sits nearby dressed in a sleek body hugging short sleeved black shirt and shorts.
The guys are in high spirits, laughing uproariously at some joke. Donovan, however, wears a subdued expression as he downs his wine. The harsh taste elicits a grimace from him, earning a round of laughter from the group. "Dude, you still can't handle alcohol?" Blake, Calista's mate, teases. Allegra observes from a distance and approaches Donovan tentatively. He shoots her a dismissive look, but she refuses to be deterred. "You're lucky you didn't die," she says defiantly. Donovan's glare meets hers, his words carrying a weight that unsettles her. "I can't die so easily," he responds cryptically. Sensing his reluctance to engage further, Allegra pouts and retreats to join Calista and the other girls.
He casts a fleeting glance at her retreating figure, and a faint smile tugs at the corners of his lips.
Flora eyes Allegra's long gown with a disapproving frown. "This won't do. We're here to have fun, to let loose, Allegra," she insists, gesturing animatedly.
Gloria chimes in, holding out a selection of clothes. "You need something with a bit more flair," she suggests, her eyes sparkling mischievously.
Violet smirks in agreement, adding, "Definitely something to turn heads."
Allegra looks at the clothes, a mixture of excitement and uncertainty swirling within her.
Gloria quickly returns, a stack of clothes in hand, and lays them on the bed. "Let's get to work," Calista announces.
Allegra opts for a sleek black knee-length strapless gown, its plunging neckline adding a hint of allure to her ensemble.
"Looking good, Allegra!" Violet chimes in, eliciting a blush from Allegra. Calista guides her to a seat and skillfully arranges Allegra's hair, crafting a high ponytail before fashioning it into an artful bun with a few errant curls framing her face.
With delicate precision, Calista enhances Allegra's features, painting her lips a subtle shade of pale pink and applying a dark eyeliner under her eyes, creating a striking contrast against her grey irises.
The girls scream in unison, "Beauty!" Allegra's smile widens as they all admire their transformed appearances. Following her lead, they each put on their chosen dresses and mimic Allegra's hairstyle, creating a harmonious ensemble.
Calista's dress, a pristine white, beautifully complements her dark skin tone. Violet opts for a delicate pale pink, enhancing her ethereal aura. Gloria stands out in a striking dark red, exuding confidence and allure. Flora chooses a rich olive green, adding a touch of earthiness to the group. Aisha dons a serene pale blue, radiating tranquility. Lastly, Caroline's vibrant yellow dress adds a cheerful pop of color to the ensemble.
The atmosphere was filled with laughter as the men, especially those with mates, looked at their partners with pride and affection. The girls approached their mates with confidence, sitting on their laps as the men were captivated by their beauty.
Declan's gaze lingered on Allegra, sweeping over her body and face before returning to meet her eyes.
"You look beyond beautiful," Declan says, his voice warm and genuine. Allegra smiles, feeling a rush of affection as she approaches him, wrapping her arms around his neck while he rests his hands on her waist.
"Aren't you bold," he teases lightly, to which Allegra snorts in response. "I've always been bold," she retorts, a hint of pride in her voice as she gazes into his eyes.
He flashes his charming dimpled smile, and she can't help but return it, her attention momentarily drawn to Donovan, who is in the company of their cousins Trevor, William, Chad, and Frederick—all unmated and the youngest in the family.
A flicker of red in Donovan's eyes catches her attention briefly, but she quickly turns back to Declan, content to bask in the warmth of his embrace.
As Allegra's gaze returns to Donovan's spot, she finds it empty, leaving her wondering where he disappeared to. Lost in her thoughts, she barely notices the soft melody playing in the background until Declan's voice breaks through.
"Want to dance?" he proposes, and Allegra nods eagerly. They move gracefully together, joining the other family members on the dance floor, their steps syncing to the gentle rhythm of the music.
They twirl and sway in perfect harmony, their bodies moving as if they were made for each other. Allegra feels a sense of warmth and belonging as she rests her head against Declan's chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. The worries and tensions of the evening fade away as they lose themselves in the music and each other's company.
"Will you mark me?" She mutters.
He creases his brows in question
"Why did you ask that?"
"Well…" she trailed off.
Declan's expression softens as he comprehends her concern. "I understand, Allegra. Your well-being is my priority, and I wouldn't want to do anything that might harm you or bring back painful memories. We can wait until you feel completely ready." He gently caresses her cheek, reassuring her of his understanding and patience.
"So.. you love me?" She asked.
Declan gazes into her eyes, he gives her a soft smile, "Maybe.." he honestly says. "I'd like to know you more."
Allegra's smile widens at his response. "I'd like that too," she replies softly, feeling a warmth spread through her chest.