Previously, when Eleanor had ntioned visiting the Werehyenas, no shadow guards were present. That’s why her sudden announcent now hit them like a bombshell. For a mont, none of them spoke... a rare silence that underscored their shock.
Sebastian was the first to recover. He straightened his posture and said with a frown, "Ma’am, the Werehyenas are vicious. eting them in person is a risky move. Can’t you avoid it sohow?"
Eleanor shook her head calmly. "No. Sooner or later, I’ll have to et other supernatural clans in person. This ti, Grandpa Dominic arranged the eting himself. I don’t expect any problems to arise, especially since Grandma already knows. I’ve sent her my flight schedule... she’ll be prepared for anything."
Sebastian sighed in relief. "That’s good to know. Still, I’d recomnd we all accompany you. Young Miss already has three shadow guards with her. Plus, she’ll be under her father’s watchful eye. There shouldn’t be any issue in our absence... especially since it’s only for a day."
Eleanor paused, considering his words. After a mont, she nodded. "Alright. All of you will co with . But Ophelia will stay back to assist Juliette Blanc with so critical work. We’ll leave tomorrow at 9:00 AM. A helicopter will take us to the airport, and the flight is scheduled to depart at 9:30."
"I’ll take care of the arrangents," Sebastian said, already pulling out his phone. "Should I coordinate with Miss Teresa or Miss Maya?"
"Teresa," Eleanor replied. "She’s handling all the travel logistics. But be careful... she doesn’t know about the supernatural world. She just thinks I have so elite bodyguards keeping an eye on from a distance."
"I understand," he assured her. Then he added, "We also planned our assignnts for today. The female guards will accompany you personally, and the male guards will head to the banquet venue in advance to ensure everything is secure before your arrival. Is that acceptable to you?"
Eleanor nodded without hesitation. "Yes, do as you see fit. I trust your judgnt."
With the discussion concluded, Eleanor left her study and went to her room to rest for a while. The evening ahead promised to be long and demanding, and she wanted to be in top form.
At exactly 4:30 PM, Eleanor got dressed and headed to "Beyond Glamorous", the luxurious styling studio owned by her old school friend, Livia Grayson. The shop was located on Rochdale Road and had beco one of the top styling destinations for Manchester’s elite.
As she entered, the scent of high-end products and the soft hum of beauty tools filled the air. The decor was elegant, with crystal chandeliers and plush velvet seating. The mont she stepped in, a familiar voice rang out.
"Eleanor!"
Livia dashed across the room, ignoring the startled stares of her other high-profile clients. She threw her arms around Eleanor in an enthusiastic hug, squealing like a teenager who had just reunited with her best friend after school holiday.
Eleanor felt a warm wave of nostalgia. Livia hadn’t changed a bit.
All the won in the waiting area looked on in shock and confusion. Their usually composed and sophisticated stylist was suddenly acting like an uncultured schoolgirl. But Eleanor didn’t mind. In fact, it comforted her.
She returned the hug and smiled, "Livia, it’s been too long."
Livia pulled back, still holding Eleanor’s hands. "I couldn’t believe it when Teresa told you were coming today! Co, I’ve been waiting for you!"
She dragged Eleanor... almost forcibly... into a private VIP styling room and gestured for her to sit. "Let get a good look at you," she said with a dramatic flair, placing her hands on her hips.
"You’ve beco even more beautiful, Eleanor. Honestly, I was so worried about you back then."
Her voice dropped slightly as she continued, "You know my family’s situation after school. I started working in Liverpool as soon as I graduated. We lost touch, and then you changed your number. When I heard about your accident... it was all over the news. I went to your house to see you, but your guards said you weren’t there. Then the rumors started... about you being missing. I feared the worst..."
She paused, her eyes glistening with emotion. "I even went to church and prayed for your soul."
Eleanor’s heart softened. Before she could respond, Livia rambled on.
"Thank God Teresa found . I didn’t even recognize her at first... she changed so much! But she rembered . Told you were in the US and doing well. I was so relieved! I even went back to the church and apologized to Jesus for assuming the worst. Hehe..."
Eleanor gently stopped her by placing a hand on her arm. "Thank you for being a true friend, Livia. You haven’t changed a bit... and I hope you never do. Now that I’m back, co visit anyti."
Livia bead. "You bet I will! By the way, Teresa and another woman are getting styled in the next room. They ca about half an hour ago."
"Perfect," Eleanor said. "Now, let’s get started. I have a party to attend."
"Leave it to ! I’m doing your styling personally today." Livia pulled a clothing rack closer. "Look! I’ve prepared three purple gowns for you, tailored to your asurents. Teresa told you’d wear one tonight and take the other two as backup."
Eleanor examined the gowns carefully and selected one with subtle embellishnts and a flowing silhouette. "This one will do."
"Excellent choice! Now check the accessories I laid out on the dressing table."
"My earrings and watch won’t change," Eleanor noted. "You can pick the rest."
"Got it. Teresa also said you wouldn’t change your shoes since they’re... well, outrageously expensive. Can I see them?"
Eleanor extended her foot. Livia gasped.
"Is that... what I think it is?"
Eleanor smiled. "Yes. You know your staff."
"Antonio Vietri. Of course I know! This is my business, after all. But I’ve never seen one up close before. It’s priceless."
"Want to check it out?"
"Can I?" Livia asked eagerly.
"Of course."
Eleanor slipped off the shoe, and Livia examined it like it was a museum artifact. Then, more seriously, she asked, "Did you bring an extra pair, just in case sothing happens?"
"I always carry several pairs in my car. I’m prepared for wardrobe malfunctions," Eleanor replied.
"Good. Now let make you shine tonight," Livia said, adjusting Eleanor’s seat as she began preparing her hair and makeup.
While Livia worked, Eleanor pulled out her phone and sent her live location to Edward Miller, who would be picking her up shortly. She then leaned back in the chair, closing her eyes and preparing herself for the long night ahead.
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