Chapter 34: CHAPTER 34: Unrequited Relationships

　　The early morning sunlight streamed through my window, painting golden stripes across the floor. A delivery notification on my phone jolted me awake.

　　Sitting up, I checked the notification. A delivery from a high-end boutique. My heart pounded as I realized what it could be. Throwing on a robe, I hurried to the door, the anticipation both thrilling and unsettling.

　　There it was, a beautifully wrapped box adorned with a delicate white ribbon. My fingers trembled as I untied it, revealing a stunning dress in a soft emerald green that shimmered like a mermaid's tail. Beside it lay a pair of matching heels and a delicate silver clutch. This was a designer masterpiece, something I could never afford on my own.

　　Tucked beneath the clothes was a small bouquet of lilies, their fragrance filling the room with a sweet, intoxicating aroma. A card attached simply read, "For Ava. Happy Birthday. Alexander."