Astrid stood in front of her daughter, radiating curiosity about how Aura's first day at work had gone.
"Come on, spill the details," Astrid urged.
Meanwhile, Aura was busy sorting through her makeup kits, a slightly puzzled expression on her face. What was she searching for?
Even without the makeup, her colleagues admired her beauty.
"You know, being beautiful isn't just about makeup, right?" Astrid reminded her.
"You're stunning, both inside and out." She gently held Aura's face in her palm. Astrid knew her child was exceptional—indeed, Aura's beauty even surpassed her own.
Aura's allure was no fleeting spark; it was the slow, unfolding light of dawn, revealing itself gradually, becoming ever more essential the longer one gazed.
It began with her exquisitely contoured face. Her cheekbones curved elegantly, reminiscent of sand dunes shaped by a gentle, persistent wind, while her skin boasted the soft, warm sheen of antique porcelain. But the true highlight of her beauty was her eyes. Their grey-green hue mirrored river-smoothed agate, embodying the depths of water shadows mingling with sunlight's fleeting touch. Those eyes had witnessed life profoundly, carrying with them the tranquil wisdom of a forest glade.
When Aura smiled, it wasn't a fleeting burst of joy. It was a calm, deepening experience, transitioning from a hidden corner of her soul to her lips, creating a sweetness so genuine that it disarmed any trace of cynicism.
Her hair, a rich chestnut, flowed in unrestrained waves, alive with a spirit that spoke of nature and freedom, uninterested in artificial embellishment.
There was a serene gravity to her presence, suggesting she was fully grounded in the moment, untroubled by haste. Standing beside her, one felt a shift in the atmosphere—a deep calm, as if the world's constant buzz had temporarily quieted.
Ultimately, Aura's beauty was a masterpiece of authenticity and tranquillity, making every other form of loveliness seem too loud, too eager for attention. She embodied a canvas of grace.
"It was lovely," Aura finally responded, stepping into her role as a daughter.
"Everything was perfect. My assistant is Quinn—do you remember her?" Astrid sat beside her, engaged on the bed.
"Yes, Alfred's cousin. I knew she was seeking a job. I would have loved to hire her, but all my positions were filled. So, I suggested Alfred connect her with Zelda."
Astrid had followed Quinn's journey closely; she knew the girl had been searching diligently for a position. It was a shame the perfect spot had already been taken, especially given Quinn's talent and dedication.
"Working with someone like that will be a breeze. They're devoted all year round," Astrid reassured her.
"Aura shared an awkward moment with Quinn," she continued. "She even referred to me as 'boss.'"
"Of course, she should address you that way," Astrid stated confidently.
"Mom, it felt strange. Like having my sister call me 'boss.'" Aura expressed her discomfort.
"Aura," Astrid said gently yet firmly, "when you're at work, the dynamic changes."
"But she's my colleague!" Aura insisted, holding her ground.
"Then it's essential that others address you as Aura, instead of adopting a hierarchical tone," Astrid proposed.
"Oh," Aura muttered, beginning to see the perspective.
"You see, it doesn't matter who she is. In the workplace, there's a need for some level of discipline and respect," Astrid clarified, sharing her insights on the employer-employee relationship.
"Got it," Aura replied, finally understanding.
"I want to ask you something." The atmosphere slightly turned into some sort of seriousness.
"Go on please." Aura quietly studied her mom. She positioned her hands on her knees, resting her head in her palms.
"Don't you want anything to do with that guy?" She asked with sincerity. It was about Orion.
Though, Aura had told them she was fine, after what had happened between them, she knew her daughter. It was because of this same guy that she had left them to pursue.
Forgetting about him, wouldn't be an easy one.
But was her daughter okay?
"I'm fine, Mom," Aura answered, feeling somewhat itchy.
"Tell me what's wrong. I'm your mother after all." Astrid held Aura's shoulders, making her face her.
"Of course.... I"
Aura began to stutter.
"You....."