Alisha's POV
As I felt the touch of Louie's hand on mine, a sense of comfort washed over me. His reassuring presence and his promise to protect me brought relief to my anxious mind. "Thank you, Louie," I responded with gratitude. "Thanks to you for noticing the strange smell on me and reminding me. It means a lot."
Louie's smile remained gentle as he spoke, "Theresa, based on what you've shared, both the music director and the strange man you encountered seem highly suspicious. I believe it would be best for you to give up pursuing this job. And if you ever come across that strange man again, remember to run away immediately."
I nodded, understanding the importance of his advice. "It's highly unlikely for Director Benefield to offer me this job, so you needn't worry about him. As for the strange man, I think he is a kind man, but I doubt we'll cross paths again. It's funny how things have turned out. Initially, I was frustrated by the interview's failure, but now, with your sensing the danger, it seems I'm fortunate to have lost this opportunity."
Louie chuckled, his laughter filled with warmth. "Ah, but as a music director, he's the one who's unlucky to miss out on a talented star like you."
Embarrassed by his praise, I took a sip of my coffee, trying to hide my bashfulness behind the cup.
"By the way," Louie began, his tone curious, "you mentioned having a conflict with Erma. I knew she is a famous singer. Could you please tell me more about it? Perhaps there's a way I can help you."
I hesitated for a moment, contemplating whether to reveal the details of my identity and past altercation with Erma. But with Louie's unwavering support and genuine willingness to assist, I decided to confide in him. After all, the present from "Theresa" was still in my bag.
"Louie, I know this may sound ridiculous, but I have to admit that I lied to you," I confessed, my voice tinged with regret. As I confessed, a wave of guilt washed over me, and I could see the shock in Louie's eyes. I paused, gazing into his eyes with sincerity. "I am Theresa, that Theresa."
Louie blinked, trying to process what he had just heard. His voice trembled with disbelief as he asked, "You mean... the talented music composer on Twitter, my idol, Theresa?"
With a shy nod, I confirmed his suspicions. It was true; I was the same Theresa he had admired online. Although I knew that Louie was my fan, hearing him refer to me as "my idol" in person made me feel both flattered and awkward. He was the first fan I had met in real life, and it was a strange and surreal experience.
Louie's eyes widened with amazement and excitement. "Wow, this is unbelievable! I never expected to meet you in person, let alone have a chance to help you! I'm such a huge fan of your music, and your compositions have been a great source of inspiration for me."
A mix of relief and gratitude washed over me as I realized that Louie wasn't angry or disappointed by my revelation. "Thank you, Louie," I said humbly, feeling a sense of vulnerability. "I'm honored that my music has meant something to you. I am a total failure as a werewolf, no wolf, useless Gift, and I never expect that I could receive this praise."
He smiled warmly, a glint of admiration in his eyes. "You're incredible, Theresa. Your talent is beyond words, and it's an honor to meet you. I never imagined that our paths would cross like this. You are no inferior to any she-wolf."
I blushed, feeling both touched and humbled by his praise. "You're too kind, Louie. It's been a pleasure getting to know you, too. Your support and friendship mean a lot to me."
I smiled warmly at Louie's excitement, happy to have brought him joy with the song. "I'm glad you liked it," I said, feeling a sense of fulfillment. "It was my pleasure to write a song for you, Soft Moon."
Then I took a few steps back to the center of the canteen, where a white piano was. I had booked this restaurant for one specific reason: It had a piano. It was time to give Louie a live performance of the song I had written for him.
Sitting down before the piano, I took a moment to compose myself, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. Then, I let my fingers glide over the keys, and the melody filled the air. As I sang the lyrics, pouring my emotions into each note, I could sense the pleasure from music grow inside me.
After the last note resonated through the room, I was met with warm applause, which made me blush with happiness. As I returned to my seat, I noticed that Louie was still staring at me, his eyes shining with an intensity that I couldn't quite comprehend.
"Why have you been staring at me?" I playfully teased, tilting my head and offering a smile.
"I must be dreaming!" Louie murmured, still in disbelief.
I couldn't help but smirk, waving my hand before him. "Well, do you like the song?"
Louie nodded fervently, "Absolutely! It's the best gift I've ever received. I can't wait to tell my friend about this; he will be so jealous!" His voice was filled with genuine delight.
"Your friend?" I inquired, intrigued by the mention of someone special in Louie's life.
"Yes, he's also a werewolf," Louie explained. "Although he can be a bit arrogant and proud, he has a wonderful wife who always makes delicious food for him. Maybe, I can introduce him to you one day."
I smiled, appreciating the idea of meeting another werewolf. "I have very few werewolf friends, so I'd be happy to meet him," I replied. "After all, with such a kind-hearted person like you, I'm sure your friends must be outstanding individuals as well."
"Really? You want to meet him?" Louie's eyes sparkled with excitement. "In fact, I'll be seeing him in a few days to attend an important party in another pack. If you're free, you can come with me!"
I thought for a moment, but regretfully shook my head. "I'm afraid I can't make it. I have other plans, but thank you for the invitation. Maybe next time." Archie asked to me attend a ceremony later, so I had no time to go with Louie.
Louie shrugged, understanding my commitments. "No worries. We'll have plenty of opportunities to meet again. Today was already such a special day for me, and I don't know how to thank you enough for your gift."
His heartfelt gratitude warmed my heart, and I replied with a sincere smile, "You're welcome, Louie. I'm glad I could make today memorable for you. I value our friendship, you know, no werewolf would like to be my friend."
Louie smiled, "Don't worry, I promise you will like my friend and her wife. She is also a strong girl who has gone through many difficulties. I bet you will get along well."
Hearing Louie's words, I was really curious about that couple, so I replied, "Well, I am looking forward to seeing her, as well as your friend."