The babys first celebration in Ardlens was unlike any other. It took place on the 42nd day after birth. After marking the one-month-old, the baby would remain hidden for another 12 days before the celebration began.
The legend said it was to avoid the Demons Child, who loved to steal children. If they could safely get through those 12 days, their lives would be free from harm.
The celebration invitations had already been dispatched by Stefan, adhering to local customs. They simply had to wait for the right moment to implement their plans simultaneously on two fronts.
Reflecting on the conversation between Eloise and Bryce, Raegan hesitantly asked, How come I didnt see Eloise with you?
Seated in his wheelchair, Mitchel looked straight ahead as he responded, She has her own affairs to attend to. Theres no need for her to stay by my side.
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Raegan paused and then suggested, You should still keep an eye on her. Shes in a strange place, and it would be unfortunate if she ran into trouble.
Isnt she always with Bryce? Mitchel remarked.
At the mention of Bryce, a pang of concern tightened Raegans chest.
She pressed on, But doesnt Bryce not really care for Eloise? It might be wise to watch over her a little more.
Mitchel took a moment before replying, Bryce may seem indifferent, but he wouldnt overlook Miss Benton if she were truly in danger.
Miss Benton? Raegan noted Mitchels formal way of referring to Eloise, which seemed overly distant. Yet, considering Mitchels typically reserved demeanor, she reasoned that such formality might not be out of character.
Raegan advised, Shes come here after you, after all. Should anything happen to her, it would impact you as well, wouldnt it Raegans concerns stemmed from Eloises flippant remarks about wanting to sleep with many men.
Although Raegan understood it as a joke, the possibility of Eloise actually visiting a bar troubled her. The security in Aurora was notably lax compared to Ardlens.
Mitchel scowled. Shes an adult capable of making her own decisions. Why should that concern me?
Surprised by his reaction, Raegan blurted out, Arent you two in a relationship?
This question made Mitchel halt. He lifted his gaze to meet Raegans, his dark eyes causing her cheeks to flush. He asked, Youve asked so many questions because you think Eloise and I are actually in a relationship?
Raegans heart skipped a beat at his words. Was it not what she had believed? Were they not in a relationship, after all?
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I wasnt asking too much, Raegan responded. It just seemed Like you didnt care much about her.
Mitchel replied calmly, She has family, friends, and will eventually have men who care for her. Why should I concern myself with her? We dont have any special relationship.
With such a straightforward response, Raegan realized she would be foolish not to grasp his meaning. Suddenly, her thoughts were in turmoil. It turned out she had completely misinterpreted the situation between Eloise and Mitchel.
Mitchel then looked at her and said, If you want to know something, just ask me directly. No need to beat around the bush.
Raegan found herself speechless. She reviewed her earlier questions.
Had her curiosity been that transparent? Upon reflection, her inquiries had indeed been quite pointed. Her eagerness to understand the nature of Mitchel and Eloises relationship had led her to steer the conversation in that direction, without realizing it.
Recognizing this made Raegan feel suddenly numb. The reason for her intense curiosity. Could it be that..