Chapter 2: Dreams Amid Doubts

(Aurora)

The tense back-and-forth between Isebella and me cast a smoldering discomfort over the dining room. I focused on my food and tried to think of things that would keep me distracted from conversations filled with thinly disguised criticisms.

“I always thought Claire would be the perfect match for you, Leon,” Isabella continued, uncaring that Leon had taken my side in front of everyone. Her voice carried the unmistakable edge of a challenge which let me know that Leon’s words had not been particularly appreciated. Her eyes darted between us, gauging our reactions to her words.

Leon, ever composed, set down his glass of wine and met his mother’s gaze. “Claire made her choice, Mother. She’s married now.”

Isabella’s lips curved into a faint smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “Yes, but one can’t help but wonder if circumstances had been different. If perhaps certain... obstacles hadn’t been in the way, things might have turned out as they were meant to.”

“Claire’s path is her own,” Leon said pointedly. “And mine is mine. I’ve never been happier ever since Aurora entered my life. She is the one I want to share my life with.”

“Of course,” Isabella replied, her tone dripping with feigned understanding. “Though I do hope that path includes thoughtful consideration of what’s best for our family and your future.”

Leon’s jaw tightened, his tension palpable. He was teetering on the edge of his temper. Gently, I placed a hand on his arm. His body eased, and when his hand covered mine, the tension began to dissipate.

“We are very content,” I said calmly, leveling Isabella with a hard stare. “The illusion of a spark could never hold a candle to the steady, enduring glow of a love cherished and nurtured.”

The faintest flicker of something – irritation, perhaps – crossed Isabella’s face, though she recovered quickly, her mask of civility intact.

“Whatever the future holds for Leon,” I continued with a serene smile gracing my face. “It will be on his own terms. He’s always been fiercely independent, and I trust his judgment to know what’s best for himself—and for us.”

“That’s an admirable sentiment.” Isabella said, her hand rising to veil a condescending sneer. “Though I shudder at the thought of Leon having to shoulder everything alone. Even the strong need someone truly capable by their side.”

Leon turned to her, his expression gaining that stoic edge reserved for only the most relentless foes. "I’ve never done it alone, Mother, and I never will. Aurora has been my anchor—the hull that steadies our ship in every storm. Together, we’re unshakable, no matter what comes our way."

Isabella’s polished facade cracked, but she quickly masked it with her usual refinement. “That’s… reassuring to hear, my boy. Please understand, a mother’s concern never fades. We always worry about our sons.”

“Of course, Mother, but I’m not sixteen anymore,” Leon replied, his tone softening as he turned to me, a reassuring smile on his lips. I squeezed his hand, silently signaling that his mother’s antics didn’t shake me.

Without another word, we both returned our attention to our meals. Around the table, the other guests hushed and whispered, stealing furtive glances in our direction. But I didn’t care. Whatever the world chose to believe about the nature of our marriage—whether truth or rumor—Leon and I were unbreakable. We were a team that could weather anything, together.

***

The car ride home was a welcome reprieve from Isabella’s antagonistic tactics. Leon and I settled into a comfortable silence, the hum of the engine filling the space between us.

I immediately got out of the car as Leon parked it into his reserved spot. Though as I moved away, I saw Leon taking a manila folder out of the dashboard. 

“What’s that?” I asked curiously, but Leon just waved me off.

I put my curiosity to the side and entered the quiet sanctuary of our shared penthouse, watching as Leon headed toward the study.

“Your mother certainly knows how to liven up a dinner,” I commented, slipping off my heels and sinking into the plush sofa of the living room.

Leon emerged from his office, loosening his tie as he sat down beside me and scoffed, “She’s consistent, I’ll give her that.” 

“What’s with her obsession with Claire anyway?" I arched my brow, looking for answers. 

“You’d think after three years, she’d accept reality.” He shrugged, pouring himself a glass of whiskey. “Maybe she’s just using Claire to antagonize us, like she always does with anything she can latch onto.”

I leaned back, a teasing smile on my face. “Well, should I be worried? You did promise me three years. Maybe her ‘motherly intuition’ telepathied it, and now she’s ready to dethrone me and crown her new princess.”

A quiet amusement flickered in Leon’s eyes as he handed me a glass of water. “And what about you, Aurora? Any plans for a counteroffensive?”

“Well, speaking of plans……” I stared into my glass, weighing my words carefully. “You know I've already wanted to break it into design, right? I’ve already got something in the works. As much as I appreciate being your secretary, it’s not my endgame.”

“Oh?” He arched an eyebrow. “Tell me more.”

“Let’s just say… A jewelry line might be on the horizon.” I said, a controlled excitement sneaking into my voice. “My parents are working hard to revive their business, and having a dependable designer on board could be indispensable. If I manage to make a name for myself, then it could really make a difference.”

“Reviving a bankrupt enterprise isn’t as simple as wishing it into existence.” Leon’s skepticism was palpable. “Your parents are struggling. How do you think you can turn it around?”

“I’m not expecting a miracle,” I replied, my tone steady. “But I’ve got to try. My dream and my family’s future are at stake here. I’m ready to make the commitment.”

He smirked. “You’re talented, Aurora. Ambition’s admirable, but don’t let it be your undoing.”

I raised an eyebrow. “Look who’s talking. How many deals have you almost lost because of your pride? Don’t forget who had to smooth things over with your executives.”

“Fair point.” Leon acknowledged, nodding slightly. “Just remember, I’ve always got your back.”

I smiled, my gaze softening. “I know.”

Leon stood up and headed toward the shower, “I need to wash off the day’s chaos. You should rest. Don’t wait for me.”

I nodded as I watched him leave, mind itching to get to the manila folder that I had seen previously.