Beauty of a crystal

CHAPTER 1

The young woman rose from her bed, her skin pale and her eyes dark. Still feeling the remnants of sleep, she slowly paced her apartment, humming softly to herself as she made her way to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. She sat down to eat, her thoughts already on the list of job openings she planned to investigate that day. Her job at the local diner was fine, but it didn't pay enough to meet her bills.

After finishing her meal, she headed to the bathroom, which was connected to her bedroom. She stepped into the shower, where she was quick and efficient as she washed her long, black hair. She emerged from the shower, wrapping a towel around her body as she made her way to her wardrobe.

She chose a black pencil skirt and a crisp white button-up shirt, hoping to look professional and put together. She spritzed herself with a light spring perfume and left her hair in a high ponytail. As she checked her appearance in the mirror, she couldn't help but feel hopeful that she would find the right job soon.

With her purse in hand, Crystal locked the door to her apartment complex and stepped out onto the bustling city streets. As she made her way towards her favorite café, she couldn't help but notice the familiar sight of the homeless man sitting by the entrance. "Morning, Morgan," she greeted him with a warm smile.

"Crystal. You look a bit different from other days. What's the occasion?" Morgan asked curiously.

"Job interview!" Crystal replied, her smile growing wider as she pushed open the doors to the café.

Inside, she was greeted by the familiar face of Jeo, the owner of the café. "There she is. My favorite customer!" he exclaimed.

"Jeo-jeo. How are you?" Crystal asked him, her eyes scanning the menu even though she already knew what she wanted.

"Well, what can I say?" Joe replied with a shrug, and Crystal couldn't help but smile at his carefree attitude.

"You look different. Do you have a new job interview?" Jeo asked her, noticing her smart attire.

"Unfortunately. If only being an adult wasn't so complicated," Crystal sighed, feeling the weight of her responsibilities.

Despite her worries, she ordered two cups of coffee and three cupcakes, her go-to order. After a short wait, Jeo handed her the items.

"Good luck."

"Thanks!" Crystal replied, feeling grateful for the support.

Crystal handed Morgan two beautifully decorated cupcakes and a steaming hot cup of coffee she had bought for him. "Here you go, Morgan," she said with a warm smile.

Morgan gratefully accepted the treats. "You're a Saint Crystal. Thank you," he said, his eyes lighting up at the sight of the delicious cupcakes. He took a sip of the coffee and savored the rich, bold flavor. "Too bad your soul is mated to two monsters," he added, the last part coming out slowly as he savored the taste.

Crystal looked at him, a hint of confusion on her face. "What do you mean?" she asked, not understanding his comment.

Morgan chuckled, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity. "Oh, don't mind me, Crystal. I'm just an old man who has been through the battles of life." He spoke with a genuine smile, and Crystal reflected it with a smile of her own, though she couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern.

With a nod and a final smile, Crystal turned and headed toward a taxi she had hailed, leaving Morgan to enjoy his coffee and cupcakes in peace.

Crystal had just finished a job interview and was leaving the building when a man stopped her. "We'll get back to you, Ms Davenport," he said, barely looking at her eyes and his gaze fixed on her chest. Crystal felt annoyed by his behavior and abruptly removed her hand as they shook hands. She turned to leave and passed by the receptionist, who gave her a final smile as she left the building.