Chapter 417: The Opening Dance
Vivian’s POV:
I said it lightly, not expecting Odessa to approach Johnny and ask about this, so I decided to play along with a little lie. “Of course! Why would I joke about something like that?”
Odessa immediately responded with flattery, “I know you, Vivian. You’d never joke about something like that with me. You’ve always been smart, kind, beautiful, and graceful. No one in North Annestone could ever compare to you. My instincts have never failed me. No one is more suited to be Ben’s mate, the future Luna of our Midnight Pack, than you.”
I glanced over at Benjamin. “If Ben agrees, I’d be happy to.”
Odessa gave me an encouraging smile. “Don’t worry. I’ve never liked Hayley. An Omega like her isn’t worthy of becoming the Luna of the Midnight Pack. Alright, I know you like Ben. Let’s go. I’ll take you to him now.” She took my arm and led me toward Benjamin.
Hayley’s POV:
After chatting for a bit, Benjamin brought me some snacks. I had a small treat, and my mood lifted considerably. Suddenly, Hera inside me began to stir with energy. I looked up and saw Odessa walking over with Vivian.
Odessa immediately addressed Benjamin, “Ben, for the opening dance later, you should dance with Vivian.”
Benjamin didn’t respond to her; instead, he looked at me. “Is this nice? Do you want anything else?”
“No, I’m fine,” I replied.
Benjamin then shifted his attention back to Odessa. “Sorry, but I’ll only be dancing the opening dance with my fiancée.”
Odessa, however, ignored his response. She shot me a look full of disdain before speaking again. “Hayley can’t dance. If you bring her out for the opening, people will laugh. Vivian, on the other hand, has been learning ballroom dance since she was a child. No style is too difficult for her. If you dance with Vivian, everyone will be impressed.”
I remained calm, refusing to engage with her comments. Benjamin, however, was visibly annoyed. He turned to Odessa and said coldly, “If Ms. Jagged dances so well, she shouldn’t need a partner. My dancing is poor and would only drag her down.”
As soon as her words fell, Benjamin completely ignored her, making the situation awkward. I stood by, silently smiling. Hera’s possessiveness flared up even more, wanting to make Vivian regret speaking up, but I held her back.
Benjamin’s firm refusal left Vivian in an uncomfortable spot. Odessa, of course, blamed me for the situation. She shot me a furious glare before speaking sharply, “Ben, at least do it for my sake. Vivian is technically the host today. You can’t let her be embarrassed in front of everyone.”
Benjamin showed no sign of giving in. His voice remained light as he responded, “What does that have to do with me?”
His words left Odessa speechless, while Vivian’s face turned bright red with embarrassment. Vivian, frustrated, huffed and stormed off. “Vivian…” Odessa called out, but Vivian didn’t even look back, leaving only her proud silhouette.
Odessa lowered her voice, clearly trying to suppress her anger. “Ben, what is going on? Is this Omega really so important to you? Are you willing to hurt me for her?” With a pained expression, Odessa pointed at me. “I’m your real mother. This woman means so much to you? You’ve really let me down!”