Melinda cracked her neck, then gracefully rose from her bed, stretching her fingers and limbs with a languid ease. The early morning light spilled through the windows of her cozy bungalow, heralding the start of another day. With a sigh, she made her way to the ensuite bath. Her life was comfortable, with a well-paying job that afforded her the luxuries she desired, including the charming house she called home.

  After a refreshing bath, she stepped out with a deep red towel draped around her body. Her long, raven hair, which cascaded all the way to her knees, glistened as she sat before her vanity. She began her morning ritual, applying her lotions, then gathering her lustrous mane into a high ponytail. She was fortunate it hadn't grown longer-it would've been a hassle to manage. She glanced at her wardrobe and chose a simple, brown dress, its fabric soft against her skin, perfectly suited for the day's work.

  Her handbag, filled with essentials, was slung over her shoulder as she stepped out of her bedroom. In the hallway, she encountered the housekeeper she'd hired.

  "Good morning, Mrs. Smith," Melinda greeted, her voice gentle but commanding. The woman nodded in acknowledgment. The scent of breakfast filled the air, and Melinda noticed the meal had already been set on the small dining table, just for her. She ate quickly, then stepped outside, her eyes scanning the road for the local carriage.

  It wasn't long before she found one. She spoke with the rider, haggling down the fare before gracefully stepping inside. The carriage jolted slightly as it began to move, the sound of hooves clopping against the cobblestone streets. When they arrived, Melinda disembarked, her eyes lifting to the towering edifice before her.

  The Gilded Aether Gallery stood proudly, its medieval architecture bold and elegant. Large letters adorned the building's face, casting an aura of grandeur. It was a place of awe, known for housing a collection of mesmerizing and captivating art and flowers, where villagers came to marvel at its treasures or purchase rare, exquisite pieces. The gallery had been built by a Baron from the West, though Melinda now worked far to the North. She crossed the threshold, greeting the ever-watchful guards with a polite nod.

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  Her post was at the reception desk, a position the director-though not the Baron himself-had chosen for her. She had been told her presence was fitting for such a role. A lovely voice, a charming smile, and a captivating appearance made her a perfect face for the gallery's guests. Of course, she was well aware of her allure. Her straight black hair shimmered in the light, her hazel eyes-an enchanting blend of green, brown, and gold-drew attention. And her lips, naturally rosy as cherries, often left others in quiet admiration.

  It was said she bore the beauty of a vampire, though she was mortal. Ironically, one such creature approached her desk not long after her shift began.

  "Good morning, sir. How may we assist you today?" she asked, her voice as sweet as honey, her eyes sparkling in the gallery's warm light.

  The vampire, his copper eyes lingering on her, smiled. "Oh, dear... aren't you exquisitely beautiful?" He must be new.

  Melinda chuckled, unfazed by his flattery. It wasn't the first time she had heard such compliments. "I'm looking for something," he continued. "A piece that evokes darkness-bold, striking, a tapestry of shadow and color."

  With a practiced nod, she opened the large book in front of her, her guide to the gallery's expansive collection. "You'll find something fitting on the third floor, sir."

  He leaned slightly closer, his gaze still fixed on her. "And what is your address, dear? I'd love to write to you."

  Melinda's smile didn't falter. She had been through this dance many times before. "Oh, sir, it would be quite inappropriate for me to share such information with a visitor. Gallery policy, you see."

  "Is that so?" The vampire's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Very well, then. I shall simply have to visit you here more often." He winked, flashing a grin that revealed a hint of fangs. "The name is Calum, by the way."

  Melinda maintained her polite smile, watching as Calum strolled away. Once he was out of sight, she let out a soft sigh of relief. It wasn't the first time a visitor had tried to woo her, and she knew it wouldn't be the last. The day continued in much the same fashion-greeting guests, answering questions, and turning down yet more requests for her personal details. She was well aware of her beauty, and, yes, she took pride in it.

  As the hour of five approached, Melinda gathered her belongings, ensuring her handbag held everything she needed. Her shift was over, and it was time for Melissa, her bubbly counterpart, to take over. The two shared a close bond-best friends since their days in school, their similar names only deepening their connection.

  "Melinda, you're looking even more stunning today," Melissa chirped as she arrived, her warm smile lighting up the room.

  Melinda returned the smile, appreciating her friend's energy. "Thank you, Melissa. It's been one of those days, you know?"

  Melissa laughed. "Tell me about it. But, at least, you're done for the day. I've still got hours to go." She glanced around, her expression softening. "Father's not well, so I might head home early if it gets quiet."

  Melinda nodded, knowing the director was

  understanding of Melissa's situation.