Chapter 426: What If I Can’t Come Up With Anything?

Hayley’s POV:

Hera told me she didn’t sense anything out of the ordinary. I spent quite a while trying to make sense of it, but I couldn’t come up with any answers. As the workday was winding down, Tanner stopped by to check on me.

“Still staring at that thing?” he asked, peering over at the blank sheet in my hands.

I looked up and sighed. “What do you think? What could possibly be so mysterious about a plain A4 sheet?”

Tanner shrugged. “I honestly don’t know. Maybe it’s just meant for you to be creative and come up with something on your own, without any specific direction.”

“Is that the case?” I muttered, feeling more confused, though it seemed like there was no other explanation.

“That’s just my guess,” he said with another shrug. “Who can really say?”

I felt stuck, frustration settling in as I sighed again. “But the first draft is due in a month. What if I can’t come up with anything by then?”

Tanner gently patted my shoulder. “Don’t stress about it. You’re going to be the Luna of the Midnight Pack, after all. Even if you don’t finish on time, no one’s going to make a big deal out of it. Just take a break for now! It’s almost quitting time, and I’ll drive you home.”

I shook my head. “No, I’m fine. I can get home by myself.”

Tanner’s expression grew worried. “No way. After what happened last time, I can’t just let you go alone. If anything goes wrong again, Ben might punish…”

I sighed, feeling guilty for worrying him, but I finally relented. “Alright, fine. Let’s go.”

After Tanner dropped me off at the entrance to my neighborhood, Hera suddenly became alert. I realized Benjamin was nearby. Sure enough, Tanner rolled down the window, and I saw him standing there.

“Ben! Are you here to see Hayley?” Tanner asked, surprised.

Benjamin raised an eyebrow, shaking the keys in his hand. “No, I live here.”

Tanner’s eyes widened in shock. “Wait, what? You moved? Are you two living together now?”

I quickly jumped in, trying to clear up the misunderstanding. “No, he moved into the apartment next door. He’s just my new neighbor.”

Tanner let out a deep sigh of relief. “Oh, thank goodness. I was starting to worry.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “What’s with that look on your face? You look like you’ve just escaped some kind…”

Tanner coughed awkwardly, trying to cover up his embarrassment. “Well, I was just worried about you two getting carried away before you’re officially a couple. You know, if that happens, you might not get the Moon Goddess’ blessing…”

I rolled my eyes, lightly hitting him on the arm. “What are you even talking about?”

Tanner quickly nodded. “Right, right, sorry. I’m overthinking it… Trying to change the subject, he added, “By the way, your letter arrived at the Southwells. Henry said he’ll bring it to you. Did you get it?”

“Not yet,” I replied. “He’ll probably drop it off later.”

Tanner’s excitement suddenly spiked. “Oh, and congratulations on getting into New College! That’s amazing! When should we throw you a celebration party?”

Before I could respond, Benjamin chimed in, “I think that’s a great idea. What do you think about having a celebration?” He looked to me for my thoughts.

I thought about it for a moment before saying, “Just keep it simple. We can set a date, gather everyone for some drinks and conversation. I’ll be heading to Cryving soon, and I probably won’t be back often except for the holidays.”

“That sounds perfect! I’m all for it!” Tanner said eagerly. “Hayley, leave everything to me for the party,” he offered.

I smiled at him, grateful. “Thanks, I appreciate it.”

Benjamin gave Tanner a pat on the shoulder. “Thanks, man.”

Tanner grinned. “No problem, Ben. I’m just doing this for our future Luna. It’s the least I can do.” “Alright, it’s settled then. I’ll pick a good day, and we’ll all get together,” Tanner said, clearly excited. After everything was decided, I got out of the car and told him, “I’m heading home now. Drive safe.”

Tanner waved. “Go ahead. I’ll be fine here.”

After watching him drive off, I felt Hera’s urgency and quickly moved toward Benjamin. He reached for my hand. “Let’s go. Time to head back.”

We walked together into the neighborhood, but as soon as we stepped out of the elevator, we unexpectedly ran into someone.