AURORA

Resuming Life

Aurora returned to Paris, the familiar skyline a comforting sight as she stood on the balcony of her apartment. The city’s energy was a stark contrast to the turmoil she had recently endured. She knew she had to rebuild her life, to find a semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos.

As she entered her office the next morning, her assistant, Mia, rushed towards her, relief and concern etched on her face. "Aurora! Where have you been? I was worried sick!"

Aurora gave her a reassuring smile. "I'm sorry, Mia. I had some... personal matters to take care of."

Mia nodded, understanding without prying further. "It's good to have you back. We have a lot of work to catch up on."

Aurora sighed, feeling the weight of her responsibilities settling back on her shoulders. "Let's get started then."

---

Meanwhile, back in Kamar-Taj, Wanda was struggling with her guilt and the desire to make amends. She approached Strange, who was meditating in the courtyard. "Stephen, I need your help."

Strange opened his eyes, his expression neutral. "What is it, Wanda?"

"I need to prove to Aurora that I can change. That I am truly sorry, Natasha was the closest person I had, after I lost my brother, Aurora is part of Natasha, I want to make it right "Wanda said, her voice filled with determination.

Strange studied her for a moment before nodding. "It's not going to be easy, Wanda. But if you're sincere, I will help you."

---

In Paris, Aurora was immersed in her work, trying to focus on the cases piling up on her desk. Mia knocked lightly on her door, entering with a hesitant smile. "You have a visitor."

Before Aurora could respond, Wanda stepped into the office. Aurora's expression hardened. "What are you doing here?"

Wanda took a deep breath. "I came to apologize. Again. And to show you that I mean it."

Aurora sighed, her shoulders tense. "Wanda, this isn't the time or place."

"I know," Wanda said softly. "But I can't move forward until I make things right with you."

Aurora looked at her, the pain in her eyes still fresh. "It's not that simple."

Wanda nodded. "I understand. But I’m willing to do whatever it takes."

Aurora took a deep breath. "Get out Wanda ."

---

Later that evening, Aurora found herself back in her apartment, trying to unwind from the day's stress. She was startled by a knock on the door. Opening it, she found Strange standing there, his expression serious.

"Stephen," Aurora said, her tone cold. "What do you want?"

"We need to talk," Strange replied, stepping inside without waiting for an invitation.

Aurora crossed her arms, her anger simmering just beneath the surface. "About what? How you made me relive the loss of Natasha all over again?"

Strange looked at her, regret in his eyes. "I never intended to hurt you, Aurora. I was trying to save you from Wanda’s manipulation."

"But you didn’t save me," Aurora snapped. "You threw me back into the deepest pain of my life."

Strange sighed. "I know. And I'm sorry for that. But you have to understand, the situation was dire. Wanda was out of control, and you were the only one who could reach her."

Aurora's eyes softened slightly, but her voice remained firm. "You should have trusted me to handle it my way."

Strange nodded. "You're right. I should have. But now we need to move forward. Wanda is trying to change, to make amends. She needs your forgiveness."

Aurora looked away, the memories of the illusion still fresh in her mind. "I can’t just forget what happened."

"I understand," Strange said quietly. "But please, don’t shut her out completely. Give her a chance to prove herself, Natasha would."

"Don't talk about her" Aurora snapped her head towards Strange. " If I forgive her will be on my terms"

---

The days turned into weeks, and Aurora gradually found a rhythm in her life as a lawyer again. Mia's support and the familiar routine of work helped her heal, piece by piece.

Wanda continued her efforts to regain Aurora's trust, volunteering at community centers, helping those in need, and learning more about controlling her powers. She sent Aurora updates, not to intrude, but to show her progress and sincerity.

One evening, Aurora received a message from Wanda, detailing her latest efforts in helping rebuild a neighborhood damaged by a recent incident. Aurora read the message, her heart conflicted. She knew that Wanda was trying, and that she was sincere.

Aurora decided to visit Wanda, to see for herself the changes she was making. She found Wanda at the community center, helping children with their homework, a gentle smile on her face.

"Wanda," Aurora called out softly.

Wanda looked up, surprised but hopeful. "Aurora, what are you doing here?"

"I wanted to see how you were doing," Aurora said, her voice hesitant but kind. "It seems you're really making an effort."

Wanda nodded. "I am. And I'm doing it not just for you, but for myself. To be better."

Aurora smiled faintly. "I can see that."

They stood in silence for a moment, the air between them filled with unspoken words. Finally, Aurora spoke. "Everyone deserves a second chance, so here's yours...don't waste it."

Wanda's eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Aurora. I won't."