I never believed in curses but the moment my hand came in contact with the Amulet I just knew something about my life was going to change.....
When I opened my eyes, I didn't move I just stared up at the ceiling thinking about nothing in particular. After few minutes my alarm went off, I moved to turned a bit to switch it off but I ended up knocking it over, I didn't bother cause at least that silenced it. I was used to always waking up few minutes before my alarm went off it like I have an alarm of it own inside my head. And when I wake I just stay put till my alarm rings. You might be wondering why I till set alarm well I get that alot from my mom.
It just when I wake up within that few minutes only my brain is active my body is mostly till sleep so I just wait and immediately my alarm goes off am all active again. The alarm was a gift from my great grandmama who is surprisingly still alive and the only family I have left.
My name is Aria Flynn, and am 22 years old well am 22 today. Doesn't even feel like it my birthday I normally don't celebrate birthdays the last I did was when I was eighteen. I lost my parents during my eighteenth birthday so I never really liked celebrating again anyways. My mum never like birthdays she always said it only reminded her of how death was closer to her every year.
I sighed before slowly getting up from bed and dragging my legs to the bathroom to wash my face. I lived in a small apartment in Manhattan not like my parents doesn't have a house but I haven't been there in years guess am not ready to face it yet neither ready to talk about them. When I looked at my face is in the mirror I looked a mess even after washing my face. I had a very unique long black hair that cascades all the way to my waist with little strands of my hair white. I used to be ashamed of it and would always dye my hair all black but now things have changed I just don't care what people think am used to the stares you know those kinds you get when u walk into Target wearing a Halloween costume during new year..... I actually did that once.
But nevertheless I love my hair not a Barbie fan but I think she once said what makes you different makes you special. I had deep shade of indigo eye like it almost purple most people thinks I wear contact lens. I had almond eye with long and thick lashes with slightly round face and small nose with heart shaped lips. I'm slim with a medium breast, slim waist and a little too big ass. I am very attractive of course surprisingly never had a boyfriend for reasons I would share later.
After about an hour, I was all settled down in my small office. I work at an art gallery that takes twenty minutes to get to as a art consultant. I love my job I have always had a thing for art since I was six. And I hoped one day I would maybe finally open my own art gallery.
I was quietly fiddling on my own when I heard a knock "Hey Aria got a sec," I heard and I knew immediately that was Alexia the gallery social manager and event coordinator.
"Yh course, come in," I called out and she came in and gently closed the door behind her. Alexia is a British and is short with edgy pixie cut hair and electic tattoos. She often wears bold and statement pieces and trendy outfit that always showcase her artistic side. "Aria, love, can I have a word?" she asks, her British accent warm.
"Of course, Lexi. What's up?" Lexi is what everybody calls her she said she prefers to be called Lexi.
She hesitates, looking slightly flustered. "It's just... Rachel Lee is coming in today, and I'm a bit panicked about the contemporary art section. I was wondering if you could take a gander and make sure everything is spot on? Your eye for art is always impeccable, and I wouldn't want to make a hash of it in front of her."
I smiled, "Of course, I'd be happy to help. Let's go take a look."
As we both walk through the gallery, Lexi whispers to me "You know, Ethan's been comin' in a lot lately, hasn't he? Always askin' about the latest exhibitions and seemin' rather keen on the art." I stared at her raising an eyebrow, and she continues ignoring it "I think he's got a bit of a soft spot for you, love. He's always makin' excuses to have a chat, and I reckon he's tryin' to impress you somethin' rotten." Not like I didn't know but I just kept a rather calm face and Lexi presses on, "You should give him a chance, Aria. He's a top bloke, and I think you two would get on smashingly. You're always so focused on work, it's time you had a bit of fun, innit?"
I wasn't at all interested not like Ethan wasn't a nice guy añd he was kinda cute with a smile that could make a girl weak in the knees but I just didn't want any boy drama right now so I just simply answered politely but distant, "Oh, that's nice. He's a nice guy, but I'm just focused on work right now."
Lexi nods knowingly, "Fair enough, love. Just don't want you to miss out on a good thing, that's all. Now, let's get everythin' spick and span for Rachel Lee, shall we? she asked clapping a hand together without making a sound and I just nodded.
Three hours later Rachel Lee arrives and I and Lexi were cautiously guiding her through the gallery and after almost rejecting all the art she claims an art caught her attention. The piece that caught Rachel Lee's eye is a stunning contemporary sculpture titled "Echoes in the Abyss." It's a mixed-media installation featuring delicate, intricately crafted glass spheres suspended from the ceiling, each containing a tiny, flickering LED light that seems to pulse with an otherworldly energy.The spheres are arranged in a seemingly random pattern, evoking the sense of celestial bodies floating in space. The lights within the spheres dance and shimmer, casting an ethereal glow on the surrounding walls.The artist's use of light and shadow creates a mesmerizing effect, drawing the viewer in with an almost hypnotic pull. The piece is both beautiful and haunting, inviting contemplation and introspection.
As I watched Rachel Lee's eyes land on "Echoes in the Abyss," I could see the connection sparking within her. She's a collector who values art that resonates on a deeper level, and this piece is all about evoking emotions and sparking imagination.I think what really drew her in was the way the lights seem to pulse and shimmer, like they're alive. It's almost as if the piece is speaking to her on a personal level, tapping into her own experiences and emotions.Plus, the title "Echoes in the Abyss" is quite poignant. It's a phrase that suggests the unknown, the mysterious, and the unexplored. I think Rachel Lee saw a part of herself in that title, a reflection of her own journey and the complexities she's navigated. As an art consultant, it's my job to understand what makes a piece tick for a collector, and I could see the excitement building in Rachel Lee. She's not just buying art; she's investing in a piece of herself.
"I want this," She said almost to herself than to us as she smiled pleasingly.
"Of course ma'am,we would get that ready for you in a few minutes," just as I finished my sentence the gallery's fire alarm goes off, and the sound of sirens fills the air. Lexi's eyes widen in panic as she rushes over to Rachel Lee. "Blimey, not now! I'm so sorry, Ms. Lee. Please, follow me, and we'll get you to safety,"
I quickly took charge, guiding Rachel Lee and the other guests out of the gallery while Lexi tries to figure out what's going on. "I'll go and see what's causin' the kerfuffle," Lexi says, dashing off.
As they all step outside, Rachel Lee's expression turns stern. "I hope this isn't a sign of incompetence. I was very interested in that piece... what's the protocol in a situation like this?"
"Please, Ms. Lee, I apologize for the inconvenience. We'll get everything sorted out and ensure you're taken care of. Let's get you a cup of tea or something while we wait for the all-clear."
Lexi rushes back over, looking frazzled. "It's a false alarm, apparently. Some numpty's pulled the fire alarm for no bloomin' reason! I'll have words with the security team, that's for certain." I gave Lexi a warning glance, but Rachel Lee's expression softens slightly. "Well, I suppose these things happen. But I'd like to proceed with the purchase of that piece... if the offer still stands."
" Ouu of course ma'am,"
I stepped out of the gallery, feeling a mix of relief and melancholy wash over me. Rachel Lee's purchase of "Echoes in the Abyss" was a huge win for the gallery, and I was proud of the work Lexi and I had done to make it happen. But as the excitement of the day faded, the familiar ache in my chest began to throb again.
It was my birthday I hadn't celebrated in years, not since... everything. My great-grandmama was the only one who still acknowledged the day, and I knew she'd be waiting for me at her place.
As I made my way to her apartment, memories flooded my mind. Memories I'd rather forget. Eighteen candles, snuffed out in an instant. The pain still felt like an open wound, and I pushed it down, like I always did.
My great-grandmama greeted me with a warm smile, her eyes twinkling with a knowing glint. "Happy birthday, Aria," she said, her voice soft and gentle.
I forced a smile, trying to play it off like it was just another day. But she saw right through me, as always.
She led me to a small table, where a beautifully crafted box lay open, revealing a stunning silver amulet. The pendant glimmered in the dim light, and I felt a shiver run down my spine.
"Aria, this was passed down to me from my mother, and her mother before her," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "It's been in our family for generations, and I want you to have it. It's a symbol of our love and our strength and more"
"More," I repeated not understanding what that was supposed to mean, but she just brushed it off and pecked my cheeks slightly.
Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as she fastened the amulet around my neck. It felt like a weight, a reminder of the past and the present.
"Very soon Aria you would understand all this and take your place for your parents, the. you would understand all our hidden family history," Great Grandmama said her voice shaking a little. After that she handed me my mother's tarot cards and insisted we had dinner together but I refused and promised another day, we chatted a little before I waved Goodbye and headed to my own apartment.
I walked into my apartment, dropped my bag on the floor, and headed straight to the kitchen to start dinner. Tonight's menu was spaghetti with garlic bread – simple yet satisfying. As I waited for the pasta to cook, I set the table and took a seat, feeling a bit more relaxed than I had all day.
After dinner, I headed to my room, phone in hand, and noticed a message from my best friend, Julian. He was always full of energy, and his messages were no exception.
"Hey, Lovie! How's your day going? Are u till single today"
I smiled, feeling grateful for Julian's friendship. We'd known each other since college, and he was more than just a friend – he was my confidant. I replied to his message: "Hey, Jules! Day's been okay, just work and visiting Great Grandmama. Let's catch up soon!" As I sent the message, my gaze fell on the amulet and tarot card my Great-Grandmama had given me earlier that day. I'd placed them on my nightstand, and they seemed to be calling to me now. I picked up the amulet, feeling an inexplicable connection to it.
Just then, Julian responded: "Great Grandmama, huh? Did she give you any more 'special' gifts?" I chuckled,Great Grandmama is known for gifting different strange or should I say weird items every year tho this year feels different, I can't just explain my sudden connection to the amulet. I decided to keep the details of the gift to myself for now. As I was about to put my phone away, I noticed the amulet starting to glow softly. I felt a shiver run down my spine as I picked it up, examining it more closely. The glow grew brighter, and I felt a sudden surge of determination. I decided then and there that I needed to visit my parents' house in Brooklyn. It had been years since I'd set foot in the place, but I knew I had to go. My mother had a vast library there, filled with books on mysticism and the occult. Maybe I'd find some answers about the amulet and my family's history.
The next day, I decided to visit the house with Julian and our other bestie Kaida. I replied to his message, and then I decided to text both Julian and Kaida, "Hey guys, I need your help with something. I want to go to my parents' house in Brooklyn tomorrow. Can you both meet me there?"
I sent the message and waited for their responses. It didn't take long for them to reply.
Julian: "What's wrong? You've avoided that place for years. Did something happen?"
Kaida: "Yeah, what's going on? You're freaking us out. Everything okay?"
I hesitated for a moment before responding. "Let's just talk about it when we meet. Can you both make it?"
Julian: "Of course, we would be there. But you're really scaring us."
Kaida: "Yeah, we'll be there. See you tomorrow."
I felt a sense of relief wash over me. I knew I could count on my friends. Now, I just had to prepare myself for what lay ahead. As I put my phone away, my gaze fell on the amulet and tarot card my Great-Grandmama had given me. The amulet seemed to be calling to me again, and I felt a shiver run down my spine.
As we met at the train station, Kaida and Julian could tell something was off. They bombarded me with questions, but I just shook my head, not ready to talk about it yet. Instead, I showed them the amulet, and their eyes widened in surprise.
"What is that?" Julian asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
"A Amulet of course," Kaida said eyeing him,I interrupted not ready to listen to them argue.
"I'll tell you later," I replied, my voice firm but controlled. "Let's just get to the house first."
The train ride was a blur, memories of my parents and our life in this house flooding my mind. When we arrived, I felt like I was walking on eggshells, my heart racing with anticipation. As we stepped out of the train station and onto the familiar streets of Brooklyn, I could feel the weight of my past bearing down on me.
My friends flanked me on either side, their concerned glances meeting mine. But I just shook my head, urging them to follow me. When we finally reached the house, I felt a lump form in my throat. Memories came flooding back – happy times with my parents, laughter, and tears.
I almost had a panic attack, but Kaida's gentle touch on my arm brought me back to reality. Julian's concerned face swam into view, and I took a deep breath, composing myself.
"Let's go inside," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.
The house was musty, covered in a layer of dust. I walked through the rooms, memories assaulting me from every angle. My friends followed closely behind, their eyes filled with concern.
Eventually, I made my way to the library, my heart racing with anticipation. The room was just as I remembered it – shelves upon shelves of books on mysticism and the occult. I began searching through the shelves, looking for anything related to the amulet.
As I scanned the books, I noticed a phrase Scribbled at the side of a book "Astra Descendit." My heart skipped a beat. That was the phrase inscribed on the amulet.
I felt a shiver run down my spine as I realized that my mother might have left me more than just memories in this house. I turned to my friends, determination in my eyes.
"I think I'm onto something," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.
"Astra Descendit," Kaida repeated "It is latin but am not sure what it means,"
" Here cubbies, it means Star Descendants," Julian said turning the screen of his phone towards us. Kaida walked over to the shelf and picked up the book dropping it on the small desk in the corner of the room. The cover was worn leather, embossed with strange symbols that seemed to shimmer in the dim light. The title, "Astra Descendit," was etched in bold Sliver letters across the cover, perfectly matching the inscription on the amulet. She gave me a reassuring nod before blowing off the dust that had accumulated on its cover. The pages were yellowed and crackling with age, filled with handwritten notes and diagrams that seemed to dance across the pages.
As she opened the book, a piece of paper slipped out, carrying a message scrawled in hasty handwriting. "For Aria, when the time is right." she read out loud before handing over the paper to me, I recognized my mother's handwriting, and a lump formed in my throat.