CHAPTER THIRTY THREE
Aurora received the news about the family dinner to meet her brother Christopher and his new wife. Her curiosity about who he had married was evident, and she decided to join her mother in the preparations. With her husband Eric at work and her daughter Diana at school, Aurora made arrangements for her son Charles to be taken care of by his nanny. She instructed her driver to take her to the market.
As Aurora arrived at the market, she heard her best friend Calista James calling out her name. Calista had gotten there a few minutes earlier.
"Hey Calista, sorry I got you to come with me to the market. I hope it's not a big deal?" Aurora said.
"No, it's fine. All I do these days is go on dates, trying to find a match for myself. My parents are on my neck to see that I start my own family. You are always their example—Aurora, married with two kids. I keep hearing it all the time," Calista expressed, a hint of frustration in her voice.
Aurora laughed, understanding her friend's predicament. "Well, you'll definitely find someone suitable for you."
Calista continued, her voice filled with longing, "If only your brother would spare me just one glance. He's so handsome, and it would have been amazing if both of us could become family and not just best friends."
Aurora, who hadn't intended to say anything about Christopher's marriage, responded with a touch of sympathy, "Well, you know Christopher cannot be controlled. I can't make him love or marry someone he doesn't want to."
Calista sighed, realizing the truth in Aurora's words. "I know, but a girl can dream, right?"
Aurora nodded, putting a reassuring hand on Calista's shoulder. "Of course, Calista. Dreams keep us going. Who knows what the future holds?"
Aurora and Calista made their way through the bustling market, their laughter and conversation filling the air. The vibrant colors of the fresh produce and the aroma of various spices surrounded them, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. Aurora felt a sense of gratitude for moments like these, where she could enjoy the simple pleasures of life with a dear friend.
As they reached the vegetable section, Aurora carefully selected the ripest tomatoes and the crispest greens, envisioning the delicious dishes that would soon grace their family dinner table. Calista, always the adventurous one, enthusiastically pointed out unique ingredients and shared recipe ideas.
As they continued their shopping, Calista couldn't resist sharing her latest dating escapades, recounting amusing anecdotes and awkward encounters. Aurora listened intently, her heart filled with empathy for her friend's quest for love.
Leaving the market, Aurora and Calista returned to the car, their shopping bags filled with fresh ingredients and a bouquet of vibrant flowers. As they drove back, they continued their conversation, discussing plans for the evening and sharing stories of past family gatherings. Aurora's heart swelled with anticipation, realizing that this dinner held the potential to strengthen their bonds and create new memories.
Aurora bid farewell to Calista, expressing her gratitude for their enjoyable time together at the market. She watched as her best friend walked toward her own home, a twinge of anticipation lingering in her heart. As she entered her car, she felt a mix of excitement and nervousness, knowing that the family dinner would soon commence.
The drive back to her family house was filled with contemplation. Aurora's mind wandered, imagining the various scenarios that could unfold during the evening. She pondered the dynamics that would emerge with the introduction of Christopher's new wife, Gabriella. Would they immediately connect and find common ground, or would it take time for their relationship to blossom? or was she just an easy to command and bend type of girl that Christopher wanted?