Unveiling Shadows

Sofia stepped out of the house with tears glistening in her eyes. The driver, sensing her distress, cautiously inquired, "Is everything okay, Miss Sofia?"

Sofia, not ready to share her feelings, simply replied, "Just drive to Lily's place, please."

They arrived at Lily's place, and Sofia composed herself, wiping away the tears. She called Lily, her voice attempting to sound normal.

Sofia: Hi... how are you? I'm waiting for you outside.

Lily: Fine, just coming. Wait for me.

As Lily joined Sofia in the car, she couldn't help but notice the redness in Sofia's eyes. Concerned, Lily asked, "Did you cry?"

Sofia, trying to brush off the situation, responded, "No, I just got an eyelash in my eye. I touched my eye, and now it's turning red. Why would I cry?"

Lily wasn't convinced but decided not to press further. "As you say, Sofia," she replied, giving her friend a supportive smile.

The two friends sat in the car together, the unspoken tension lingering in the air. Lily sensed that something was bothering Sofia but respected her friend's decision not to share. They drove in silence towards the salon, where they planned to get ready for the farewell party.

They both went to the salon to get ready for the farewell party. Inside, Sofia and Lily started to get their makeup done. Sofia, opting for a light makeup look, was done first. She decided to change into her party outfit and headed towards the changing room.

As she walked through the salon, a woman approached her. The woman noticed Sofia and said, "You look so relatable to my client; she used to come to my salon. By the way, what's your name?"

Sofia hesitated for a moment before replying, "Umm, my name is Sofia."

The woman's eyes widened with recognition. "Oh, so you're the small girl who used to come with your mom. What was her name? Oh yes, Clara. Are you Clara's daughter?"