Chapter 36: Maria Faces Off With Paris

Maria turned to her left. Her emerald eyes were shocked. "There are so many people!" Sophie beamed back with excitement. "Of course, Maria! Like I told you, no one would miss this for the world!" Maria chuckled at her friend's large grin. Perhaps bringing Sophie here was a good decision after all. She didn't know that her friend would be so ecstatic. This is like a golden ticket! She had exclaimed when Maria handed her the invitation card she had requested from the council. Maria found the whole social dance thing ridiculous. It was non-exclusive, yet only members of the council could attend without an invitation. They allowed gatecrashers, yet they could throw them out of the party if they wanted. They gave invitations, but only one invitation per member. What is the point of this party? She wondered as she moved toward the table of food. "Oh my God, Maria," Sophie whispered in disbelief. "Look at the spread. Have you ever seen such delicacies