Preparation didn’t feel like preparation.
It felt like anticipation.
⸻
Aaron didn’t leave it to chance.
⸻
Two calls.
That was all it took.
⸻
Maya arrived first—already suspicious.
Zara followed shortly after—curious, observant.
⸻
They both stood in the living room, arms crossed, staring at Aaron like he’d just made a very bold decision.
⸻
“You called us,” Maya said slowly.
⸻
“I did,” Aaron replied.
⸻
Zara tilted her head.
⸻
“For styling?” she asked.
⸻
Aaron nodded.
⸻
“For Elara.”
⸻
A pause.
⸻
Maya blinked.
⸻
Then laughed once.
⸻
“Well,” she said, “this is new.”
⸻
Aaron didn’t react.
⸻
“I want her to have everything she needs,” he said. “No compromises.”
⸻
Zara exchanged a look with Maya.
⸻
Silent agreement.
⸻
“Oh, we’re going all out,” Zara said.
⸻
