Chapter 53 Aria

• “Mom, what do you think of this outfit?” My voice sounds uncertain as I look at myself in the mirror, trying to convince myself that the combination is enough. I’m wearing a simple uniform salvaged from an old job. The dark jeans fit my legs discreetly, the leather belt cinched at my waist adds a touch of firmness, and the white cotton shirt contrasts softly with the navy-blue blazer draped over my shoulders. I turn slowly, analyzing every detail of the attire as I wait for my mom to appear at the door.
• I hear her footsteps coming quickly down the hall. I turn to face her, and before a single word is spoken, I can already feel the weight of her critical gaze on me. Her right eyebrow arches with precision, a clear signal that a wave of critiques is on its way. It’s always been like this—a whirlwind of observations and corrections.
• “You need to tie your hair up,” she begins, her voice firm but full of authority. “Make a side braid. It will better frame your face.” I can already picture her eyes scanning every detail of my appearance, noting imperfections that might not even exist but, in her view, are glaringly obvious. “Put on some makeup,” she continues without pausing to breathe between instructions. “Those dark circles under your eyes look like two black orbs floating on your face.” Her tone carries a mix of criticism and concern, as if the exhaustion etched on my face could simply be painted over with a few strokes of makeup.