Powerless Aesthetic Novels & Stories

“Let them see.” We stood in front of one of the largest pieces in the upcoming exhibition. “This one,” Adrian said, studying it, “feels different.” “It’s about choice,” I said. “And consequence.” He nodded slowly. “I feel that.” I turned to him. “You could have protected yourself.” “I know,” he said. “You didn’t,” I said. “I won’t pretend it wasn’t tempting,” he admitted. “Power is seductive.” “And?” I asked. “And empty,” he said. “Without someone who sees you clearly.”

“They’re calling you powerful.” She laughed softly. “They called me a pawn an hour ago.” His jaw tightened. “They’re wrong.” “Some of them aren’t,” she said. “They just say it out loud.” Arrow crouched in front of her, lowering his voice. “Celeste, listen to me. You are not ornamental. You never were.” Her breath caught. “Then why do they keep saying it?” “Because they can’t control you,” he replied. “And people like that confuse beauty with weakness.”