Page 29 of Code of Heart

But the worst was in moments like this, where Aurelia needed a friend, Selene would go radio silent. It was becoming clear that Selene wasn’t equipped—or willing—to show up when Aurelia needed someone most.

The noodles slipped off the chopsticks and back into the bowl right as she was about to take a bite. Growling in frustration, she gave up on the damn noodles and tried to shift her focus to the assessments Estrella sent for the matchmaking process.

Her thoughts zeroed in on the potential mystery match Estrella alluded to…and how she had knocked over her teacup in shock. She about fell out of her chair when Estrella suggested they spend the next few days fully focused on “fast-tracking” the profile and assessment work.

She allowed herself to feel a flicker of hope at the thought of this…until it collided with panic at the thought of Kyle and the physical reminders she still bore of the last time she tried to open up to someone. Aurelia grabbed a nearby pillow and hugged it tightly, closing her eyes to squash the fear.

“I survived,” Aurelia whispered in an attempt to ground herself. It was a mantra, a reminder of her resilience. She repeated it a few more times before cleaning up and extinguishing the fire.

She went to bed early, steeling herself for the next day’s tasks and a surprise visit to Starhaven Manor.

Similar to Aurelia's mood, the playlist on the radio today was absolutely on fire. She sang along loudly, albeit terribly, as she drove to Starhaven Manor.

After getting up early, she completed her online assessments with laser focus over breakfast, feeling empowered by the insight they gave her. Her conflict resolution style hit hardest, a stark reflection of how her upbringing and past relationships shaped her avoidance of confrontation.

Marriage wouldn’t allow her to run anymore. She needed to learn to stand her ground.

Visiting Selene today felt like a good first test.

As she turned into the grand drive leading to Starhaven, the manor’s beauty struck her anew. Nestled on a cliff outside Joia City, the whitewashed villa with its red tiled roof and carved wooden accents was nothing short of magical. Her chest tightened as reality sank in.

This estate could soon be hers…if everything worked out.

She planned to speak with Charles about the upcoming Harvest Charity Ball, a Greaves family tradition. Despite its pretentiousness, Aurelia had loved planning it with Eleanor. The thought of doing it without her was less exciting, but also an opportunity for Aurelia to honor her friend.

Parking in the staff area, she composed herself and entered through the service door, winding her way to the expansive executive kitchen.

It had a large, curved window that allowed natural light to pour in, a number of spacious walk-in pantries, and a breakfast nook with a built-in banquette that could easily fit a large family.

Fitted with top-of-the-line gleaming stainless-steel appliances, high-gloss light wood cabinetry, and polished marble countertops wrapped around the space. The main attraction, however, was the massive center island housing a cooktop and sink, surrounded by multiple pendant lights suspended fromthe high ceiling…and where Selene stood with Chef Rodrigo, reviewing menus. She looked tired, and her smile briefly faltered when she saw Aurelia.

“Hey! I’m so glad you’re here! We’re working on the menu for the Harvest Charity Ball.” Selene walked around the island toward Aurelia, dressed immaculately in an olive pantsuit.

“Before you say anything, I have a good reason for not calling you back yet,” Selene began. They moved through the service wing toward Selene’s office. “I have a few reasons, truth be told.”

The modest and worn but elegant office was tucked in the back of the estate. It boasted the same lofty ceilings and cream walls found in the rest of the manor. Aurelia sat across from Selene’s desk, the guest chair having seen better days.

“I was starting to get worried about you and figured I’d come and do a wellness check myself.”

Selene handed her a water bottle from her mini refrigerator, then sank into her chair.

“It’s been a hell of a week. I’ve been a bit disorganized and have spent more time than I’d care to admit putting out fires with the staff. It’s put me behind on many things, so I’ve had to work later than usual.”

She explained how she left her phone, purse, and coffee on the roof of her car and drove off the other day, only noticing when everything flew across her windshield.

“It hasn't worked right since then...I ordered a replacement that’s arriving this weekend,” Selene said apologetically, fiddling with a retractable pen.

“I’m so sorry that happened. I wanted to make sure you were alright and weren’t mad at me for something. It’s been a really strange few days,” Aurelia said, guilt creeping over her for assuming the worst about her friend.

“No apology needed; it’s definitely been a shit week,” Selene sighed.

“Hopefully, I can help make things a little easier after I talk to Charles about the Harvest Charity Ball.”

Selene perked up a bit at the mention of the event. “We’ve been pushing ahead with everything as if she were still here, so any help would be welcome.” A flash of curiosity darted across her face. “Have you heard anything about who her heir is? None of us has heard a peep,” Selene whispered conspiratorially.

Aurelia hedged, cautiously crafting a response. “I haven’t been here in a few days, so I haven’t heard anything...I’m sure it’ll come out when it’s time.”

Falling dramatically back into her seat, Selene sighed again. “You’re right…as usual. We have plenty to do around here in the meantime, like plan this Harvest Charity Ball.”