SERENDIPITY

~16~ Birthday Party And Mariella Santiago ✔️

"So," Mia said as we finally stepped back, a glimmer of excitement in her eyes. "Are you ready to embrace Mariella Santiago and show the world what you're capable of?"

"Absolutely," I replied with fervor, my eagerness palpable.

"Excellent. Let us commence. On the count of five. Ready?" She paused momentarily, building up the suspense. "One, two..." She paused again, savoring the moment. "Now, close your eyes. Open them once the count reaches five, alright?"

"Very well," I nodded in agreement, willingly complying with her request.

"Three..." Mia's voice began, her tone becoming more melodious. "...four, five! Ta-daa!" She exclaimed with flourish, her excitement infectious.

As I unveiled my eyes, the reflection in the mirror revealed a girl who bore no resemblance to Raquel. My eye shadow and eyeliner accentuated the emerald hue of my eyes, and my hair cascaded in its natural waves, yet there was an undeniable void. I couldn't possibly embody Mariella Santiago with my auburn locks.

"Mia," I called out.

"Yes?" she responded, curiosity lacing her voice.

"Do you still happen to possess the temporary black hair dye?"

"Yes, but why do you inquire?" she questioned, clearly puzzled.

"Could you please apply it to my hair and straighten it?" I beseeched, hopeful for a transformation that matched the persona I sought to embody.

"Well, is this component essential for your Mariella Santiago guise?" Mia queried, her voice tinged with curiosity.

"Yes," I affirmed, determined in my response.

"In that case, why not alter the color of your eyes as well?" she suggested, offering a suggestion to further enhance the transformation.

"No," I asserted firmly, a hint of stubbornness lacing my voice. "I want them to remain green, just as they are."

"Alright," Mia acquiesced, her tone tinged with understanding. She retreated to her room momentarily, returning with the hair dye in hand. "Are you ready?" she asked, gauging my readiness for the impending transformation.

"I believe so," I replied, a mix of anticipation and apprehension coursing through me.

-*-*-*-

"Raquel," I heard Mia's voice resonate through the door as she opened it. "Ethan is here."

"Alright. I'll join you in just a moment," I replied, my voice filled with assurance.

Casting a final glance at my reflection in the mirror, content with the transformation into Mariella Santiago, I picked up my purse and guitar, ready to embark on the forthcoming adventure. Exiting my room, I gracefully made my way towards the living room where Mia, Ethan, and our grandparents had gathered, their presence creating an atmosphere brimming with anticipation and excitement.

"Hello, everyone," I greeted, my voice drawing their attention. Mia wore a satisfied expression, my grandparents looked simultaneously proud and taken aback, while Ethan appeared as if he had seen a ghost. His gaze wandered from my face downward, lingering on my legs. I adorned a form-fitting black dress, exuding an air of elegance. It embraced my curves from my torso to mid-thigh, gracefully flowing down to my legs. The dress showcased my cleavage, and its back plunged sensually. From mid-thigh to my legs, there was a sheer layer of delicate black lace. Seeing Ethan squirm uncomfortably after being caught checking me out, I couldn't help but smile and shake my head.

"You look ravishing, Ella," he complimented, his steps closing the distance between us. "Just like Lucie. I truly miss your mother, Mariluz, and with each passing day, you resemble her more and more." With those heartfelt words, he enveloped me in a heartfelt embrace.