Aria sits in her study, eyes glued to the laptop screen. The soft glow of the monitor highlights her sharp features. A nearly full glass of wine sits untouched beside her.
[Knock, knock.]
Aria barely glances up before the door creaks open. Tiny footsteps approach.
Aurora Walton
*Softly* Pretty Lady…
Aria Knight
*Still typing* Little one? Why aren’t you asleep?
Aurora walks up to her, holding something behind her back.
Aria Knight
*Finally looks at her* What’s that?
Aurora Walton
*Grinning* Pudding and chocolate! I heard maids say you didn’t eat.
Aria stares, expression unreadable. Aurora holds out a spoon with pudding.
Aurora Walton
Say ahh!
Aria blinks, then leans forward slightly.
Aria Knight
*Sighing* You’re stubborn. *Opens mouth*
Aurora giggles as she feeds Aria. Then Aurora takes a bite of the chocolate herself.
Aurora Walton
*Mumbling* Pretty Lady works too much…
Aria Knight
*Smiles* And little one worries too much.
They continue eating, small smiles on both faces. Eventually, Aurora yawns, rubbing her eyes.
Aria Knight
*Raising a brow* Sleepy?
Aurora Walton
*Sleepily* Mhm…
Without another word, Aria picks Aurora up and carries her to the bed. Aurora snuggles into her, tiny arms wrapping around Aria’s waist.
Aurora Walton
*Mumbling* Pretty Lady is warm…
Aria doesn’t respond. She simply holds Aurora close, her grip protective. Soon, both of them fall asleep.
.
.
[Next Morning – Aria’s Bedroom]
Eliza hesitates outside the door before slowly pushing it open. The sight inside makes her freeze.
Aurora is curled up on top of Aria, tiny arms wrapped around her. Aria holds Aurora protectively, her face calm, peaceful—even soft.
Eliza Walton
*Whispering* What…?
Her heart clenches. A mix of emotions rushes through her—shock, confusion, and something deep, unspoken.
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