Peaceful sunlight filters through the wide windows of Aurora's small apartment, casting a soft golden hue across the cream walls. The space isn't lavish — just a modest one-bedroom flat with a compact kitchen, a clean bathroom, and a cozy living area that doubles as a dining nook. Her bedroom, though simple, holds the same quiet elegance that she carries in herself.
It isn't decorated with anything expensive — just a small wooden desk, a single potted plant, and soft-colored curtains that flutter gently in the spring breeze. The room, though humble, holds a warmth that mirrors its owner — neat, composed, and quietly enduring.
Aurora's fingers swipe across her phone screen.
Another message from that number.
Message: You ain't going to him.
She reads it calmly, then nods to herself like someone accepting an order, not a suggestion. She taps the screen a few times and saves the number as "The Truth." No name. No explanation.
CozyCup isn't a high-end place, but its charm lies in its warmth and quiet bustle. The scent of cinnamon lattes, roasted beans, and baked muffins fills the air as customers drift in and out.
Behind the counter, Aurora works silently, slipping from task to task with quiet efficiency. Long, dark hair tied back into a loose braid, her brown eyes focused and thoughtful, she blends into the environment like the soft jazz playing in the background.
"At least have lunch now," a melodic voice interrupts.
Aurora glances up to find Luna, holding out a foil-wrapped sandwich and wearing her signature teasing smile.
Luna is dazzling in a way that feels effortless. Her long, platinum blonde hair falls in cascading waves, sometimes tucked into a messy bun when she's working. She has a tall, slender figure and luminous dark brown eyes that shimmer with curiosity and mischief. There's something magnetic about her — something that makes strangers want to sit beside her and friends feel at home. Her beauty is loud, but her soul is gentle.
"You don't have to worry about me this much, Luna," Aurora says with a small smile.
"As if you have someone else to worry about you," Luna grins, popping open her fizzy drink.
Just then, the familiar clap of heels breaks the moment. Their boss, Ms. Geraldine, stands at the counter, arms folded.
"We've got a contract for a party. Not the usual kind. Classy, high-paying, and important. Everyone, we're working overtime today — and I expect your best."
Geraldine's presence is impossible to ignore. A mid-aged woman with short, perfectly styled brown hair, she commands respect with her sharp eyes and crisp words. Her deep brown skin, always glowing with a light touch of bronzer, contrasts with her monochrome blazers and neatly pressed slacks. She's strict, organized, and always watching — like a hawk that sips espresso.
Their lunch hour shrinks instantly into stress.
Back to work, Aurora's phone vibrates again with a call from Dio.
She hesitates. The phone rings again. Then again.
She stares at it. Her thumb hovers — but finally, she mutes the call, sliding it back into her apron.
Her heart feels like it's clutching something heavy.