The morning sunlight spilled through the curtains of Ariana's room, casting golden glow on the neatly made bed. The faint hum of the city outside her window was a comforting background as she tied her hair into a loose ponytail.
Her desk, cluttered with open medical textbooks and scattered notes, reflected her life.....busy, disciplined, and driven by purpose. She glanced at the clock and sighed. Another day at the clinic awaited.
Ariana's reflection in the mirror caught her attention. Her soft brown eyes held a mix of determination and weariness. She reached for her stethoscope and bag, her mind drifting to her parents. Her father, a successful businessman, had always encouraged her to follow her dreams, while her mother, an award-winning journalist, inspired her to face challenges with grace. They were her pillars, yet she often felt the weight of their expectations.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee greeted her as she stepped into the kitchen. Her best friend, Mia, was already there, leaning against the counter with a mischievous grin.
"You're up early," Mia teased, handing Ariana a steaming mug.
"Couldn't sleep," Ariana admitted, taking a sip. "Too much on my mind."
"Let me guess work or love?" Mia wiggled her eyebrows.
Ariana rolled her eyes. "Work, obviously. Love isn't exactly high on my list right now."
Mia's expression softened. "You can't let the past control your future,Ari. Not every guy is like... him."
The mention of her ex made Ariana's stomach twist. She forced a smile. "I know. But I have enough on my plate without adding romance to the mix."
Mia nodded, sensing the need to change the subject. "Fine, but don't be surprised when Prince Charming walks into your life when you least expect it."
Ariana laughed, shaking her head. "I'll believe it when I see it."
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The clinic buzzed with activity as Ariana settled into her routine. The scent of antiseptic filled the air, mingling with the soft murmur of conversations. She greeted patients with her usual warm smile, her kind demeanour putting even the most anxious at ease.
Her first patient, a young boy with a sprained wrist,reminded her why she chose this path. As she gently examined his arm, she noticed his mother watching her with gratitude. Moments like these made the long hours and sleepless nights worth it.
By lunchtime, She finally had a moment to breathe. She sat in the break room, scrolling through her phone. A headline caught her eye: "Asher to Perform at Charity Gala Tonight." The name rang a bell, but she dismissed it, focusing instead on her sandwich. Celebrity news wasn't her concern.
Little did she know, her world was about to collide with his.