Chapter 27 : The Birthday Banquet Chapter 27 : The Birthday Banquet ( Elena's POV ) After the unpleasant confrontation with Marcus a week ago , he hasn't returned to Moonhaven Estate . The silence between us has grown thicker than winter fog . Now Margaret Blackwood's birthday banquet approaches . Amber Stone's message arrives with typical efficiency : " The old lady expects you to attend with Marcus . " I understand my position as a Blackwood family Luna despite our strained mating bond . I cannot refuse this command . I hesitantly send Marcus a message through our mate bond . " Grandmother's birthday banquet , she wants me to go back with you ." Ten minutes pass without a reply . The silence cuts deeper than any harsh words . I block the mate bond connection and stop waiting . His indifference no longer surprises me . ( Sophia's POV ) Meanwhile , I accompany Isabella Blackwood at the shopping district to select birthday gifts for Margaret Blackwood . The young woman beams with joy as we browse through luxury boutiques . " Sophia , you have such good taste , " Isabella gushes , examining an elegant silk scarf . " Grandmother Margaret will definitely love what you pick ! " Isabella has known me for years . She considers me Marcus's unforgettable first love , maintaining a goddess - like filter for everything I do . When I express concern that the grandmother won't be happy if she knows the gift is from me , Isabella nearly lets something slip . " Ele- " she starts , then catches herself quickly . Her face flushes as she reassures me . " I only recognize you as my future sister - in - law . I'll persuade grandmother to accept you ." The incomplete word echoes in my mind . What was she about to say ? After shopping , I return to the Northern Territory Central Healing Institute . The suspicious feeling gnaws at me like a persistent itch . I stop by Elena's office , then head to the nurse station . " I need to review Elena's employment records , " I tell the staff . The nurses comply without question . I scan through the documents carefully . Elena's marital status is clearly listed as mated . My eyes narrow as I study the information . " Have any of you ever seen Elena's mate ? " I ask the nurses casually . They shake their heads in unison . " We've never met him ," one admits . 1/3 Chapter 27. The Birthday ... A Prime 2 " We're not even sure if she's really mated to an Alpha ," another adds quietly . I stare at the documents thoughtfully . My suspicions grow stronger with each passing moment . ( Elena's POV ) Later that afternoon , Pack Nurse Rachel approaches my office with information . " Healer Elena , Sophia has been investigating your records and asking about your mate ." I look up from my patient files calmly . " Let her investigate if she wants . " Rachel seems surprised by my lack of concern . " Aren't you worried about what she might discover ? " I reflect silently . Even if I wanted Sophia to know about my mating bond with Marcus , he might not be willing to let her know . Therefore , I feel no fear about Sophia discovering our connection . The truth would only complicate her delusions further . A week later , the Blackwood Ancestral Manor buzzes with activity . Distinguished guests from across the Northern Territory arrive for the birthday celebration . Margaret Blackwood , despite her age and retirement from active pack leadership , remains a revered figure . As a pioneering businesswoman and an icon for independent Lunas , she still wields strong influence over the Blackwood family . She often influences even Marcus's actions through her wisdom and authority . Victoria Blackwood and I receive guests in the Great Hall . I wear an elegant light blue dress with my hair styled in a traditional updo . Light makeup enhances my features as I stand gracefully beside my mother - in - law . Perfect etiquette guides every movement . These manners were learned during my first two years in the Blackwood family under Margaret's strict guidance . The old lady had insisted on proper training for her grandson's mate . " Where is Marcus ? " Victoria asks sharply , scanning the arriving guests . I explain honestly . " I notified him but received no response . " Victoria's expression turns cold . " Useless , can't even keep your own mate . Might as well sever the bond sooner rather than later . " She walks away to join Margaret , leaving me standing alone . The sting of her words barely registers anymore . I spot Marcus entering the Great Hall , surrounded by wealthy young Alphas . He wears a light - colored casual suit that highlights his refined , commanding presence . His golden eyes survey the room with practiced authority . Every movement radiates the cu leader . He approaches his grandmother and apologizes . " Sorry for being late , Grandmother . " Margaret responds with surprising honesty . " I'm actually surprised you came at all . " Her knowing eyes glance meaningfully in my direction . I understand the silent command . ence of a born Chapter 27 : The Birthday I approach and greet her respectfully . " Happy birthday , Grandmother Margaret . " The old lady takes my hand with surprising warmth . " You've always wanted the moonlight herb cultivation project , haven't you ? " Everyone around us expresses surprise . Victoria's eyebrows rise sharply . " I've agreed to it , " Margaret announces . " Go ahead and pursue it confidently ." Victoria protests immediately . " Why would such an important project be given to just a healer- " She doesn't finish the sentence publicly , but her disdain is clear . I ignore my mother - in - law's attitude and focus on Margaret . " Are you truly willing to entrust me with this project ? " I recall how Professor Theodore Ashworth had previously approached her about it but was declined . The moonlight herb cultivation could revolutionize healing practices . Margaret explains her reasoning . " I couldn't find suitable candidates and remembered Professor Ashworth's previous discussion . I've decided to entrust it to you . " Genuine delight fills my chest . " Thank you , Grandmother . I won't disappoint you . " Marcus observes my happiness thoughtfully . His golden eyes study my expression with unusual intensity . Nearby guests comment enviously . " The old lady treats her granddaughter - in - law so generously . " " It's like treatment of a biological granddaughter , " another adds . " We expected the hidden Luna to be mistreated by her in - laws , but Margaret's satisfaction is evident . " At this moment , Isabella approaches cheerfully . She completely ignores my presence and presents her prepared gift . " Grandmother Margaret , happy birthday ! " she exclaims brightly . " I wish you good health , longevity , and all the best ! " Comments Watch videos get points ( 0/10 ) > 104 H Vote Chapter 28. The Trap at th Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!