Chapter 16: Ines's birthday party

In June 18, 1863.

Ted twirled the red liquid before drinking the last content. He stood behind the huge tinted glass in his room. He was able to see faraway due to the height of the mansion.

Today is one of the most important day in my life,today is Ines birthday. He thought.

Ted has been avoiding Imelda since the previous incident.

Today marked Ines 40th birthday.

He had always made sure to see her face every year on her birthday.

He always appeared in sjonia to see her even though Ines has never seen him though she feels his presence everytime his around. Sometimes Ines thinks she is losing her mind.

**

In the blissful rainy season.

The nice fragrance of the flowers in this season filled the air.

The ixora, vinca and rain lily. She loves nature very much.

She adjusted her beautiful ball gown while looking into the mirror.

The beautiful diamond necklace fit perfectly on her. It brightened her neck area. She looked just like a Disney princess even though she is 40years old. Ines looked the same as when she was eighteen. It seemed as though she does not age at all. Not only her but the rest of the Finn family.

The blood Imelda mixes in their food whenever she drops by,had great effect because all of them looked the same as 22years ago.

Ines was quite worried about this. She doesn't even look like the mother of three children.

She tightened her shoe well.

Her brown hair,tied in a perfect bun and adorned in beautiful straw beads.

She preferred her natural face than applying makeup. She noticed a figure in the doorway. She turned to see who it was.

"Father,come in. I do not have to give you permission. She smiled at him.

Marcos looked the same as 22years ago too. No difference.

"Good morning. It's your birthday again lily". He massaged her cheeks lovingly. My little princess.

"I would rather you call me a queen,dad...

"Alright lily. I will call you a queen next time.

"Here,help me with my earring...She handed him a new golden earring of a classic design.

"I really miss Ted,you know. He has not been part of my birthday for 22years now and it hurts me so much.

"Lily,I think it's best to enjoy your day by yourself. At least I am here with you,your whole family is here with you that's the most important thing.

"I know father but I just miss him. He is my favorite sibling,you know.

"I understand. Come,give me a big hug... He said with his hand wide open to receive her.

Marcos embraced her lovingly.

"Go downstairs and join the family to celebrate.

"My husband will be joining us today in our werewolf ceremony.

"The otu?"

"Yes,the otu. I told him about it.

"Why would you do that. Marcos voice remained cool. He was talking to his youngest child,his princess,he could not raise his voice on her like he would for the others.

"Because in a relationship, there should not be secret. He tells me everything because he trusts me and I must also reciprocate that. I still wonder why you decide to keep mom in the dark since all this years. Do you feel she will not accept you.

She said firmly.

"Lily,now is not the best time to discuss this topic. It's your birthday, let's be merry.

"C'mon pops, don't change the topic. If she truly loves you she will accept you and love you for who you are.

"I think it's best you mind your business. If you would wait for Ted up here then don't bother to show your face downstairs. We will gladly celebrate in your honor".

Before she could say anything more marcos slammed the door.

"Dad is such a hard ass. She muttered.

She stayed in her room for an hour and half before she finally came out.

The main stairs is very long and built in a complex way. Ines took her steps carefully.

"Here she comes". Her youngest child announced while the rest of the family applauded her.

Ines has always celebrated her birthday with her family. Her kind.

She did not invite her human friends to avoid too much worries. She can control herself but her children might just show off their werewolf qualities.

*

Everyone proceeded to give her gifts including the house helps and the servants.

It was an interesting occasion.

Ines danced with her siblings. The four of them and their children.

Marcos invited talented Instrumentalists to play on her birthday.

Everything was in abundance. The food,the drinks,you name it. Her big family by her side and all the expensive gifts but there was this emptiness in her heart. This space no one can fill. It's Ted's place.

She loves him very much and his absence kills her. She wore a fake smile to avoid questions.

She faked her happiness.

All this people come every year to celebrate with her. Ines was used to them now.

Ines also misses deirdre and imelda but mostly Ted.