Chapter 2 How’s Your Day, Dear

Cercei's POV Seeing Maria endure such torment, with constant sneezing fits while struggling to hold onto the broom, I couldn't bear it any longer. I offered her my handkerchief and quickly took over the sweeping duties to ease her burden. "Have you taken your anti-allergy pill?" I inquired, the broom gliding effortlessly through the fallen petals. She blew her nose into the handkerchief before responding, "I ran out this time." "Your poor nose looks like it's been stung by a bee," I joked gently, attempting to lighten her spirits. "Shut up," she playfully rolled her eyes, a chuckle escaping her lips.  We both knew the teasing was a way to alleviate the strain, a shared language between us. She found a breather on a nearby bench, aiming to escape her allergic suffering momentarily. Meanwhile, I continued sweeping, the white roses scattered across the garden in abundance. It was no surprise, considering the MoonStone pack's trademark was that of the white rose. "I honestly don't understand why Vienna always feels the need to be so vicious," Maria expressed with frustration evident in her voice, accompanied by sneezes. "Maria, please be careful with your words. There might be someone listening," I cautioned her, aware of the lurking ears always ready to report any perceived offences. Apprehensive, I glanced around, my senses heightened with worry that someone might overhear the less-than-favourable words that escaped Maria's lips. "Oh, come on. We all know it's true," she persisted, her voice laced with frustration. "Even so, Vienna wouldn't react kindly to such words," I cautioned her once again, fully aware of the consequences that awaited those who dared to speak ill of the Alpha's daughter. "She can have my nose instead," Maria retorted, pointing humorously at her swollen, red nose. Despite the seriousness of the situation, I couldn't help but chuckle at her remark. "You should return inside. Vienna would not be pleased to find you helping me here," She suggested, concerned for my well-being. Then, she swiftly took hold of the broom, eager to continue her duties. "Are you sure you're alright?" I asked, still concerned about her well-being. "Don't worry, hun. At this point, I can practically feel the 'abs' forming on my nose," she reassured me, attempting to lighten the mood. "Alright, just be sure to cover your nose while you sweep and take your anti-allergy pill," I advised, my charming attitude taking over. "Yes, Mommy," she quipped, playfully teasing me.  I shook my head, a small smile tugging at the corners of my lips. Leaving Maria to her task, I made my way back to the mansion, only to find yet another mess that Vienna had 'accidentally' created once again. Despite the weariness that consumed my body, I forced a smile whenever Vienna issued her orders. I couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for her. After all, her mother, the Moonstone Luna, had tragically passed away during childbirth.  In the wake of that devastating loss, her father had gone to great lengths to fill the void, perhaps even going overboard. As a result, Vienna had grown up entitled and spoiled, unable to comprehend or consider the emotions of others. Having endured a day of torment, I finally collapsed onto my humble bed.  "You should freshen up, my dear," My Mom told me.  I instinctively shifted my gaze to the portion of the room designated for us. The three of us shared this modest space in the maid's quarters, a room barren save for the two beds and a tiny window. I often found relief through that window, gazing at the night sky and marvelling at its sheer beauty. "Where's papà?" I inquired, my mother meticulously tending to their bed. "He's still at the library with Monsieur Remus," she replied, referring to the Alpha. My arms ached from the extensive scrubbing I had undertaken throughout the day. Vienna's 'accidental' spills of paint had occurred not once but thrice. Despite my exhaustion, I summoned the strength to rise from my bed and prepared to take a bath. My eyelids drooped heavily as I absentmindedly brushed my hair. "Here," Mamà gently took the brush from my weary hand, her touch soothing as she ran it through my hair. "How was your day, dear?" my mother asked in a soft, caring tone. "Ask Vienna," I replied with a yawn, prompting a chuckle from my mother. "I'm sorry you have to deal with her," she sympathised, her voice tinged with sadness. "It's okay, Mamà. I'm used to it," I reassured her. As my mother turned to face me, I couldn't help but notice the wistful smile gracing her lips. "You know, the Moon Ball is coming up. House Crescent has been chosen as this year's host," she revealed. My eyes widened at her words. "A ball?" I had only ever seen extravagant ball banquets on television or read about them in books. The mere thought of attending such an event filled me with excitement. "All the North and West packs will gather together, singing, dancing, and searching for mates," my mother explained, her finger playfully touching my nose as she mentioned the last word. While I knew that my role would likely be limited to serving during the night, the prospect of being present at a grand ball, observing the elegant dances and enchanting atmosphere, was enough to fill my heart with joy. "When will it be, Mamà?" I eagerly inquired. "The next full moon," she replied, causing my eyes to sparkle with anticipation. "It's the same night as my birthday!" I exclaimed with excitement. Mamà chuckled in response. That night, I fell asleep with a smile on my face. A ball, a magical event that I had only dreamed of attending, was about to happen soon. I couldn't believe my luck. People say birthdays should be special, and this year's celebration was shaping up to be the most extraordinary one of my life, or so I thought. As dreams of elegant dances and radiant gowns filled my slumber, I couldn't help but imagine the grandeur waiting for me. The high lords and the Alpha himself would surely grace the occasion, and I was filled with endless curiosity about their appearance and demeanour. With countless questions swirling in my mind, I eagerly anticipated the answers that would soon suffice. Little did I know the twists and turns that lay ahead, but for now, the anticipation painted a picture of a birthday that would surpass all my expectations.