Page 46 of His Arranged Plus-Size Mate

The day went by quickly. I left the center a little before four and headed home. I found it quiet, and Asher was nowhere to be found. I headed upstairs and threw my closet door open, scanning what I could wear. Gabriella explained it was a nicerparty, so I should dress up. She was going to grab me at five thirty to head over.

I flipped through my clothes, tossing outfits aside. I grabbed a deep purple dress and yanked it free. It was a tight-fitting dress, but I had worn it a few times and loved how it looked on me.

I went into the bathroom and curled my hair, pinning it to the side. I slid the dress on and put on some makeup. I was just sliding my shoes on when Gabriella pulled up in front of the house.

I headed out and hopped into her car. She was wearing a navy blue dress that clung to her. She smiled. “Dang, you look nice.”

“As do you.”

We drove across town toward the town hall. As we pulled up, I suddenly felt nervous knowing that this was going to be busy. Gabriella explained that it was a celebration party thrown by one of the women.

“You said Chelsey and Marie were coming, right?” I stepped closer to

She nodded. “They are already inside.”

We headed inside, where the party was in full swing. People were dancing, and some waiters were handing out champagne. I was surprised at how many people were here and moved closer to Gabriella.

“Where are the others?”

“I don’t know. I’m sure we will find them.” Gabriella hooked her arm with mine, and we wandered deeper into the space. Gentle music played throughout the room, and I could hear people laughing.

“Gabriella.” We paused at my sister’s name. We turned to see someone walking toward us.

“Who is that?” I asked as I leaned closer to her.

“My neighbor,” she answered. “She’s a sweetie.”

“Gabriella, I didn’t know you were going to come to this.” The lady threw her arms around my sister and gave her a tight hug. “It’s wonderful to see you.”

“Thank you, you look beautiful in that outfit.”

“Thank you. And you must be Hazel. I’ve heard so much about you. You look just like your sister.”

I smiled.

“Well, my husband is around here somewhere. Hope you guys have a great time.” The lady slipped away, and I glanced at Gabriella. “Are people talking about me?”

She nodded her head. “Well, you’re the talk of the town since your magic came out. So, I’m sure everyone is talking about you, which is why I wanted you to come out.”

I looked around the room and realized people were looking at us. My stomach dipped.

We both grabbed a glass of champagne and continued to look around for the others. We finally found them at a table. All of the gals from the center were there. Chelsey spotted us and smiled, waving her hand. “Hazel! Gabriella. You two look amazing.”

We slid into seats, and I glanced around the room once more. I spotted some people I knew from the bar. Most of the pack I didn’t know, and I didn’t feel I had a reason to.

“I feel like everyone in Belrose is here tonight,” Marie said as she sipped her drink.

“Sure feels like it, this place is packed.”

“What exactly are we celebrating?” I asked, wondering if the others might know.

“It’s someone’s birthday. I don’t remember who.”

I nodded, taking another look around the room. I listened as everyone chatted. We talked about the center and how busy we have been.

“Does anyone want another drink?” Chelsey asked as she pulled herself up. “I need more liquor.”

“I’ll join you. I wanted some more wine. Can you hold down the table so no one else takes it?”