Emerald Strings

Filthy Redhead

Chapter 3

After finishing dinner, Emerson took it upon himself to wash the dishes, claiming it was his way of making up for eating most of the food. He rolled up his sleeves dramatically, splashing soap suds everywhere as he worked. Aaira watched him with amusement, shaking her head as she carefully stored the leftovers in the fridge.

“You know,” Emerson said over the sound of running water, “I’m not just an incredible actor. I’m also a master at domestic chores. You’re looking at the full package here.”

“Right,” Aaira replied sarcastically, closing the fridge. “The soap on the floor is definitely proof of your mastery.”

He turned to her, suds dripping from his hands. “You just don’t appreciate my methods. Greatness always comes with a bit of mess.”

Aaira rolled her eyes, laughing softly as she grabbed a towel to wipe the counter. Once the dishes were done, Emerson dried his hands and walked over to her. Without warning, he wrapped her in a quick but warm hug.

“You’re the best, Aaira,” he said, his tone unusually sincere.

She froze for a second, not expecting the gesture, then smiled faintly. “Thanks, Emerson. You’re not so bad yourself.”

He pulled back and grinned. “I know. Don’t forget it.”

And just like that, he was gone, leaving her shaking her head and smiling to herself. Emerson was crazy, but he had a way of making her laugh even on the most ordinary days.

After Emerson left, Aaira decided to unwind and indulge in some alone time. She changed out of her formal outfit and slipped into something more comfortable: an oversized black hoodie, snug black jeans, and her favorite pair of sneakers. She tied her hair into a loose bun and threw on a face mask to cover her identity.

The last thing she wanted was to be recognized and swarmed by fans or paparazzi. She grabbed her car keys and headed out, deciding to explore the vibrant night scene of New York City. The city that never sleeps always had something to offer, even at odd hours.

Aaira drove to Time Square, the heart of Manhattan and one of the most crowded, dazzling places in the city, even late at night. The area was alive with bright neon lights, giant digital billboards, and the constant hum of activity. Tourists and locals alike filled the streets, snapping photos, shopping, or simply soaking in the energy of the city.

Parking her car in a nearby garage, Aaira stepped out and melted into the crowd. Her hoodie and mask helped her blend in; nobody gave her a second glance. She relished the anonymity, feeling free to explore without the pressure of being in the spotlight.

Her first stop was a street vendor selling soft pretzels and roasted nuts. The warm, comforting smell drew her in, and she bought a soft pretzel sprinkled with coarse salt. She took small bites as she wandered around, admiring the towering billboards and the ever-changing display of advertisements and movie trailers. One of her own past films flashed across a screen, but nobody around her seemed to notice her standing there.

Aaira walked past performers on the street, breakdancers showcasing their moves, a guitarist strumming a soulful tune, and even a man dressed as a living statue, holding perfectly still as people dropped money into his bucket. She paused to watch for a while, enjoying the raw talent and the enthusiasm of the crowd.

She couldn’t resist stepping into one of the souvenir shops lining the streets. Inside, shelves were packed with “I ♥ NY” merchandise, miniature Statues of Liberty, and all sorts of quirky knick-knacks. She picked up a snow globe featuring the New York City skyline and turned it over, watching the glittering snow swirl inside. It was a simple moment, but it made her smile.