bed chem | drew starkey

CHAPTER 14

LATE NOVEMBER 2023

Aurora groaned softly as she stepped off the plane, adjusting the strap of her bag as she followed mia through the terminal. the long flight had left her stiff and slightly groggy, but the excitement of being in london began to buzz through her.

"you know," mia said, glancing over her shoulder, "i think i should've packed one more coat. it's freezing here, rory."

aurora rolled her eyes, smirking. "you brought three. how many coats does one person need?"

"at least four," mia quipped, pulling her suitcase off the luggage carousel with a dramatic flair.

the two made their way through the bustling airport, eventually stepping outside into the crisp london air. aurora shivered slightly, tucking her hands into her jacket pockets.

"okay, i see your point about the coats," she admitted.

mia grinned triumphantly as their driver opened the door to a sleek black car. "thank you for acknowledging my wisdom."

the ride to the hotel was filled with quiet admiration of the city. the streets were alive with energy, even in the early morning. mia had her face pressed against the window, taking in the sights, while aurora leaned back, eyes half-closed but smiling softly.

"london's beautiful," mia murmured.

"it really is," aurora agreed, her gaze drifting to the iconic landmarks as they passed.

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"oh. my. god," mia whispered dramatically as they stepped into the lobby of their hotel. the space was modern yet cozy, with warm lighting and elegant decor.

aurora glanced around, equally impressed but trying to play it cool. "they didn't hold back, huh?"

a concierge greeted them with a polite smile, handing over their room keys and confirming their bags would be sent up shortly.

when they reached their suite, mia practically ran inside, letting out a delighted gasp. "rory, we have a view of the london eye!"

aurora followed her to the floor-to-ceiling windows, taking in the breathtaking cityscape. "okay, this is pretty amazing," she admitted, her earlier grogginess fading as excitement took over.

mia flopped onto one of the plush beds, stretching out with a satisfied sigh. "i could get used to this."

aurora laughed, setting her bag down and pulling out her phone. "let's not get too comfortable. we have a premiere to prep for tomorrow."

mia groaned dramatically but sat up. "fine, but only if we can order room service first. i'm starving."

aurora shook her head, already scrolling through the menu. "you're impossible."

"and you love me for it," mia replied with a cheeky grin.

the two settled into their room, the buzz of london humming in the background as they planned their next move. the city felt alive, and for the first time in a while, aurora allowed herself to feel that way too.

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aurora stared at her reflection in the mirror, her stylist adjusting the last detail of her black sheer dress. the embroidery sparkled subtly under the golden light, the high slit and sheer panels creating a look that was equal parts elegant and daring. her hair had been styled into loose waves that cascaded over her shoulders, adding to the effortless yet striking look.