English Version: Sands & Sparrow

31

"You have a nice place here," Margo commented, her eyes scanning the room appreciatively as the chauffeur carefully placed Aveline's bag on the polished hardwood floor.

"Huh?" Aveline stood rooted to the spot, her eyes wide with disbelief. The realization dawned on her that it wasn't just a prize delivery but a complete home transformation. The walls, freshly painted in warm, inviting tones, were brought out by elegant chandeliers that cast a soft, ambient glow. New sleek and modern furniture filled the space, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury.

Her gaze darted from the fully equipped kitchen, gleaming appliances catching the light, to the cupboards stocked with dishes and cookware. Even the refrigerator hummed softly. The air was filled with the scent of newness - fresh paint, clean fabrics, and a hint of lemon from recent cleaning.

"Can I use your bathroom?" Margo's voice broke through Aveline's daze. With a gentle touch, she closed Aveline's gaping mouth, amusement dancing in her green eyes. A blush crept up Aveline's cheeks, warm with embarrassment. "Bathroom? I think it's in the—" she began, her voice trailing off as she tried to recall the layout of her new home. But Margo was already moving with familiarity as she headed directly to the bathroom.

Left alone, Aveline's eyes roamed the space. A flutter of excitement stirred in her stomach, like a swarm of butterflies taking flight. Her happiness was real, manifesting in the deepening of her dimples as she tried to contain her joy.

Unable to resist, she made her way to the bedroom. The door swung silently, revealing a haven of comfort. The bed, a vision in satin sheets, dominated the room. Even the en-suite bathroom offered a complete set of toiletries. A contented sigh escaped her lips as she took it all in. Never in her wildest dreams had she imagined living in such luxury, yet here she was, standing in what felt like a beautiful dream.

Returning to the living room, she found Margo already settled on the couch, her posture relaxed and at ease in the new surroundings.

"Have dinner with me? I'll cook. Please don't go." Aveline's request was soft but earnest. Her chocolate eyes shone with happiness, a sight that Margo found herself unconsciously admiring. "Do you like the house?" Margo asked gently.

Aveline nodded, moving closer to cup Margo's cheeks in her hands. "I'm so happy. I love this place," she declared sincerely.

"Do you need a maid?" Margo offered, practical as always.

"I'll be fine, Margo," Aveline assured confidently.

"I'm glad you like it," Margo replied, a soft smile on her lips.

Suddenly, a shadow seemed to pass over Aveline's eyes, dimming their brightness. Their gazes locked, an unspoken communication passing between them. "Something wrong?" Margo asked softly.

Aveline sighed, a mix of emotions crossing her face. In a bold move, she stood and settled herself on Margo's lap. Surprise flashed in her green eyes as Aveline cradled her face. "I think I'm going to miss you the most," Aveline murmured, her fingers gently stroking Margo's cheeks. The touch was tender. "Won't you stay here for a night? Sleep with me?"

"Do monsters scare you?" Margo teased, a smile tugging at her lips as she pulled Aveline closer. Their faces were mere inches apart, breath mingling in the small space between them. "You're treating me like a child," Aveline muttered.

Margo's familiar scent enveloped Aveline, a heady mix of subtle perfume and something uniquely Margo. Their proximity was intoxicating, temptation hanging heavy in the air between them. Unable to maintain eye contact, Aveline buried her face in the crook of Margo's neck, inhaling deeply. "Can I ask you a question?" she mumbled against Margo's skin.