Chapter 31: Rome
The concert was yet to commence, with people socializing and exchanging pleasantries, both standing and sitting. Damien and Aurora secured seats in the front row reserved for VIPs.
Aurora couldn’t help but be impressed by Damien’s prominent position. Given his workaholic nature, it was expected that he had strong connections in society. The show began shortly after, featuring ten girls in elegantly styled leotards and tutus. The lead dancer stood out in a purple ensemble, while the rest wore white attire.
The spotlight always fell on the princess-like character in such performances. Aurora was familiar with the song playing; it was the famous "Swan Lake," with music composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
Aurora nodded along to the enchanting melody, finding it quite soothing. It reminded her of her childhood when her parents used to dress her up as a ballerina and create a stage for her to dance on.
The memories stirred up emotions, and before she knew it, tears welled up in her eyes. Damien glanced at her and shook his head, unable to comprehend what could be so emotional about a show like this. If it hadn’t been work-related, he wouldn’t have wasted his precious time at this boring concert.
He reached into his inner suit pocket, intending to offer her a handkerchief, but a kind gentleman sitting beside Aurora had already provided one. Feeling embarrassed, Damien quickly returned the handkerchief to his pocket and cleared his throat.
"I am sorry for crying," Aurora apologized, thinking he was annoyed by her display of emotions. Damien contemplated explaining, but he waved it off, considering it unimportant.
Suddenly, the female lead gracefully waltzed over to Damien’s seat and tossed a red rose at him. In ballet, if the princess among the ballerinas threw a red rose at a man, it symbolized her choosing him as her knight.
Aurora, having only witnessed such gestures in shows, widened her eyes, eagerly waiting for Damien’s reaction.