Aurora's World

“Ms. Johnson, did you hear what I just said? Mr. Wright made you the heir of his entire fortune and estate.” Said Ms. Morgan, attorney for Mr. Wright.

Have you ever had something unexpected or unbelievable happen? Well, that is what happened to me. Let me back up and start my story from the beginning. My name is Aurora Johnson, and I am 16 years old. I am not like the other girls in my grade worrying about which party is the best to go to or how slutty to dress for the football players. My time is divided so much that I do not have time to think about the normal teenage girl problems.

I work as a cashier at Ulta Beauty, a singer for a dance club, a waitress at Mrs. Loretta Ice Rink, and any free time that I have left I spend at my local retirement home helping my foster mom. Keeping busy helps keep my mind off thinking about my loss. When I was 4, I was involved in a horrific car accident with my parents. Unfortunately, I was the only survivor and did not have any next of kin. So many kids are placed in foster care that doesn’t get the chance to get a family as I did. The Johnson’s are truly my family.

“Aurora did you get lost in your thoughts again?“ Shouts my mom from under the reception desk.

“Sorry mom, I just can’t stop thinking about my parents and what they were like,” I replied. Can’t understand why I am getting lost in my head. Maybe playing the piano with Mr. Calloway will get me out of my head. “Hi, Mr. Calloway. Would you like to play the piano with me?”I asked.

“Oh hi Aurora, I would love to but a good friend of mine is visiting me today. Aurora, this is my good friend Mr. Wright. “ Replied Mr. Calloway.

“Hi. It is very nice to meet you, Mr. Wright. How do you know Mr. Calloway?” I replied.

“We are former bandmates when we were around your age, and to this day we are still very good friends.” Replied Mr. Wright.

Before I could ask any more questions my mom came over to ask if I can assist nurse Marie with Mrs. Claire in her afternoon walk. “Sure mom. It was very nice to meet you, Mr. Wright. Maybe another time I can hear some stories.” I reply before catching up with nurse Marie.

“Hi, Mrs. Claire. How are you today?” I ask greeting them.

“Aurora, sweetheart. I’m doing okay, but your smile is making my day even better. Where did we leave off last time?” Mrs. Claire replied.

“You left off at the part where you were saying goodbye to your husband on the train platform,” I replied to her question.

“Oh, that’s right.” Mrs. Claire starts narrating her story. At that moment all I could feel was sadness but mostly fear of losing the love of my life in the war. But I didn’t want to let him see that in my face or eyes. I was holding my husband as tightly as possible for as long as possible. I just was not ready to say goodbye. All I could hear was other women saying their goodbye’s to their loved ones going off to war and so much crying. From the distance, I could hear the train horn getting louder and louder.

All the soldiers were getting on the train, but I just couldn’t let go of my husband Mark. I wanted to stay in his embrace until the very last second. The warning whistle blew to let everyone know that the train will be departing in a matter of seconds. I gave Mark one final kiss as I watched him get on the train. I chased the train until there was no more platform. I stayed on that platform for what felt like hours watching everything and everyone come and go.

As the war waged on, I wrote to Mark every day. And there were times I would not get letters back for months at a time. I was giving a piano lesson when my world came crashing down in an instance. Two military officers were standing at my front door with the look of solemn. After they finished giving me the most dreaded news, all I could do was cry. My other half was taken away from me. Everyone from my neighborhood would come by to offer their condolences and to just be there for me. Each day that passed was like a fog. Just living my life on cruise control and not living in the moment. It wasn’t until I finally got the strength to go through my husband's things.

That was where I found a letter he had written a day before he was killed. I keep his letter with me every day to remind me that he wants me to live life to the fullest. So I lived my life like we would have if he would have returned home to me. Traveling the world, doing activities that I would have never considered, and getting remarried to my new husband John.

“Wow Mrs. Claire, that was a sad part. Having so much strength to endure that at a young age is amazing. After moving on with your life, did you feel guilty for living your life? I asked curiously.

“Oh sweetheart, at times I would feel guilty but then I would picture Mark sitting me down and tell me that what I am doing is not living. He would want me to be happy and enjoying every single day possible because you never know what could happen.” Replying to my question.

“Alright, Mrs. Claire it is time to take your medicine.” Interrupted nurse Marie.

Mrs. Claire’s story helped me today. As much as I miss my parents, I have to live every moment.

“Hey sweetheart, are you ready to go home? Your father is making his homemade pizzas.” Said my mom walking over to me.

“That sounds perfect, but can we watch all 5 Jurassic Park movies?” I asked excitedly. Back at home and when you step into the house, It smells like a pizzeria. Mom and I walk to the bar counter enjoying the view of my dad singing and doing his cooking dance while making the pizzas. Couldn’t help but giggle and I couldn’t miss the opportunity to post it to my TikTok account. How could I not?

“Are my favorite ladies ready for pizza and movie night?” My dad asked while still doing his cooking dance.

“We are ready honey, except Aurora has picked the movies for tonight.” My mom replied still giggling.

“Oh, is that right?” He replied while doing The Rock’s eyebrow lift.

“Jurassic Park marathon,” I shout excitedly. My parents couldn’t stop laughing so hard. At that moment I didn’t feel like the orphan that I truly am, but a daughter spending quality time with her parents. The rest of the night was filled with laughter and the roars from the movie. Best night ever!

Chapter 2

Woke up feeling amazing and this feeling like something amazing was going to happen. Maybe it’s the smell of blueberry pancakes and bacon filling the air of the house. After finishing getting ready for work, I rush downstairs to a plate stacked with my favorite pancakes. 4 pancakes and 3 pieces of bacon finished I got in my car ready to take on anything that came my way. The ride to the Starlight Club was peaceful. Blasting Bruno Mars on my sound system, getting me pumped for the day. But to be honest I was already feeling pumped.

The parking lot was empty and quiet. I let myself in to get started on inventory and to train a new hire, Jessica. Walked over to the Dj booth and plugged in my iPhone to turn on my playlist. The 1st song to play was Aaliyah Rock the Boat. Instantly started singing along and dancing. After 2 hours, the inventory was done and I started training Jessica. Teaching her everything she needed to know slowly and in detail. Provided her with two sets of uniforms we wear and her name tag. Submitted her new hire paperwork and answering her questions left her feeling excited. Before she left for the day I gave her a printed copy of her work schedule.

“Thank you Aurora, I don’t feel scared anymore.” She said relieved.

“Your welcome Jessica. And if you ever need anything, please don’t hesitate to ask me.” I said.

After she left, I went back inside to play on the piano for a while. I must have got lost in the song I was singing to because I did not hear Mr. Wright come in. I was startled by clapping making me jump off the piano bench.

“That was beautiful Aurora.” Said Mr. Wright impressed.

“Thank you. Whenever I play music, I just get lost in the notes, the harmonies, and the lyrics. Is this what Smokey Robertson feels when he creates an amazing song?” I reply.

“Smokey gets that feeling every time he touches the piano keys. Watching him work was not like anything I have ever seen.” Mr. Wright says while sitting next to me on the piano bench.

In awe, all I could say ask, “Wow you knew Smokey Robertson?”

“Oh yeah. Along with so many other Motown greats.” He replied with ease.

I just sat there in awe and wanting to hear his story. After hours of listening to his story, I was more and more impressed. It wasn’t until my phone interrupted the story with a text from mom letting me know it was time to head home. As we were heading out of the club, I turned and asked, “Mr. Wright how did you get into the club, and how did you know I was here.”

Mr. Wright smiled at me and said so smoothly, “ That answer is for next time, which if I’m not mistaken is Friday night. Right? Good night Aurora, and see you on Friday.” And with that, he got in his car and was off. It took me a moment to get myself together. I got in my car and had so many questions swirling around in my head. The rest of the week went by so slow. I had so many questions and only Mr. Wright had the answers I needed.

After school, Minnie came up to me excited for the Starlight club and mostly what she and I were going to wear. Thankfully Minnie is my co-costume designer for when I perform at Starlight. Minni has a way of making pink, red, and glitter look so amazing. Having her there with me when I perform is a safety net.

“Did you hear that B5 will be at Starlight tonight? Oh my god, they are so hot even if a few of the brothers are taken. Dustin would be perfect for you and Patrick for me. Oh and we can even go on double dates, and then have a double wedding.” Minnie says while leaning on the hood of my car daydreaming.

“Okay slow down Minnie. We have to meet them first.” I said shaking my head with a smile. It’s scary, yet impressive for Minnie to have a bandwidth on my love life.

“I designed this last night for you.” She says while handing me a garment bag. “I was inspired by looks Ariana Grande and a mix of Fashion Nova. By the way, I love your employee discount with Fashion Nova.”

“You know they are hiring right?” I replied giggling.

“What and take away the time needed to make your costumes for the club. I can’t turn off when and how I get inspired.” She rebuts.

“Yes, what would I do without?” I ask.

“Look plain on the stage. I make you stand out and with B5 coming tonight my work has to be on point.” She says fidgeting with the costume.

“Back on our love life?” I asked amazed at her multitasking.

“It’s a talent. Now come on let’s get ready to turn heads tonight. By the way, I heard Justin was going to be there tonight.” She says casually.

“Wait, what? You are not talking about Justin the quarterback of the football team?” I asked freaking out. All Minnie could do was just nod while opening every drawer in my Impressions Slaystation vanity. My excitement turned to worry because I did not need Ashley and her minions harassing me even more. Okay, just breathe everything is going to be great. As long as Minnie is there with me playing matchmaker, I should be fine.

The club was full and loud with the Dj playing music. Trying to get through the crowd was difficult with people dancing and grinding on each other. In my dressing room, Minnie was adding the finishing touches to my costume. With one last look in the mirror, I was headed to the stage. Butterflies going strong in my stomach were gone in an instance as soon as the music started. The feeling of getting lost in the music took over and I felt unstoppable. The Dj, my dancers, backup singers, and the crowd just pumped me up, even more, to put on an amazing show that everyone will remember.

Halfway through my set Minnie pulled me aside and told me that B5 wanted to meet me. During my break, I went to the VIP booth B5 was enjoying with Minnie at my side. They complimented me on my performance. Minnie was already at getting her plan for Patrick and Dustin to fall in love with us. But I didn’t need her help. My conversation with Dustin was easy and relaxing. Big Mike came over to get me to start the second half of my set. Before I could say anything, Dustin gave me a nod to go.

I finished my set with a cover of Ariana Grande’s ‘Touch It.’ The crowd was going crazy and having so much fun. Halfway through the crowd on the dance floor, I felt a grip on my wrist pulling me closer to him. I was in the arms of Dustin, in the middle of the dancefloor. It was perfect timing because the song that came on was B5 ‘Say Yes.’ I was pulled even closer into his arms and we started dancing. Like Beyonce said in her song ‘Baby Boy” featuring Sean Paul said, “ Picture us dancin’ real close in a dark dark corner of a basement party. Every time I close my eyes it’s like everyone left but you and me.” I once again was lost in the moment.

After hours of dancing and talking, Dustin was kind enough to give Minnie and me a ride home. Like every father, my dad was peering out from the front door window. We said goodnight and even stole a kiss before my dad could say anything. But even after we went our separate ways, we were still texting for hours. The next morning my mom knew something was different about me. But my dad didn’t notice or maybe he wanted to ignore it. Not a chance with my mom the detective.

“So… who was that young man last night at our door.” She asks while pretending to be quo.

“His name is Dustin and he is a famous singer in a band with his brothers,” I replied innocently. “I am off to Starlight if you need me.”

I was already in my car before my parents could say anything. When I entered Starlight I was not expecting to see Mr. Wright again. “Mr. Wright, what are you doing here again?” I asked trying not to sound rude but failing.

“Aw Aurora, just the person I was looking for. And to answer your question, I own Starlight Club.” He replied unfazed. “Rebecca runs the business on my behalf but I make all the decisions. My best decision was hiring you to perform.”

“Hi, Aurora. You were amazing last night as usual. Here is a new set list for next Friday. I want to try and mix it up. Old school and new school.” Rebecca said excitedly. “Oh I see you met the owner, Mr. Wright”

“I did. You are amazing because I have been working with you for over a year and you inspired me as a hard-working businesswoman. I always thought you owned this club.” Replying impressed.

“Ah thank you, Aurora. I try to be an inspiration for anyone. If you will excuse me, I need to speak with a vendor of ours. Again you were amazing Aurora.” Rebecca replies.

I spent the rest of the day with Mr. Wright on the piano bench. His story was awe-inspiring. Every week Mr. Wright and I would spend hours sharing his story with me and working with me to improve my performance skills. Even Rebecca my boss saw the changes in a good way when I would perform. Mr. Wright was preparing me for a life in show business if that was a career I wanted to pursue.

Chapter 3

It’s Christmas Eve and I am spending it with Dustin and his family with my parents' approval of course. The past 11 months with Dustin has been amazing. Thinking back to Minnie and I’s, conversation in the parking lot of my school plotting our love life scheme. Every text, call, facetime, and even written songs made the past 11 months a true Hallmark moment.

“Aurora can you come with me for a moment?” Dustin asked mysteriously.

“What’s going on Dustin?” I asked.

“I just wanted to give you my present privately. Close your eyes.” He said.

I gave him an uneasy look but did as he asked. I closed my eyes trying to calm my fast-beating heart. All of a sudden I felt something cold on my neck. When it was okay to open my eyes, I saw the most beautiful pendant ever. It was a heart-shaped pendant with a keyhole in the middle. It was a set. He was wearing the other half of the necklace that had a mini key that fits perfectly in my heart. He had me completely speechless that is very rare.

All I could do was pull him close and just kiss him passionately. “I love it, and I will never take it off,” I said.

“There you two are. We are just about to open presents.” Said Bryan.

We followed behind Bryan and entered the living room with everyone waiting to tear open the presents under the tree. In a matter of seconds, the room was filled with cheering, and excited shouts of the gifts being opened. But at that moment everything came crashing down. My phone rang and at first, I thought it was my parents wishing me a merry Christmas but it was a number that I did not recognize.

“Ms. Johnson my name is Julia Morgan. I am Mr. Wright’s lawyer. I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Wright passed away early tonight and requested I speak to you right away.” Mrs. Morgan said with sadness in her voice.

All I could do at that moment was just drop my phone due to shock. Dustin and his family had concern on their faces. I couldn’t answer their questions because I was in too much of a shock. Thankfully Dustin picked up my phone and finished the call with Mrs. Morgan. A few weeks passed from the funeral that was held. My parents, Minnie, and Dustin came with me to provide support as Mrs. Morgan went over the will Mr. Wright had left.

“Ms. Johnson I am so sorry for your loss of a good friend. I understand just how you feel right now. I have known Mr. Wright for over 30+ years. He wanted you to be here for the hearing of his will.” She said with such solemn. “I Samual R Wright leave my entire fortune and estates to Mrs. Johnson.”Quoting Mr. Wright.

“I know this is all shocking for you, but he left you his entire fortune of $20,000 in bonds that are now worth over $50 billion and the deed of Starlight Club. He left this for you Aurora.” She said handing me a magnetic box.

I was back in my room laying on Dustin’s chest so overwhelmed and sad. I couldn’t take my eyes off the box Mrs. Morgan gave me. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, and sat up on my bed. Dustin sat up next to me on the bed rubbing my back in support.

“Aurora, it’s okay if you need more time to open the box Mr. Wright left you,” Dustin said with support.

“I’m okay, I think,” I said trying to convince myself. I pull the box closer to me and after a moment I open the box. Inside the box is an envelope addressed to me. I opened the envelope with a letter inside.

“Dear Aurora,

If you are reading this then I am no longer with you all. I didn’t want anyone to know that I was sick and just wanted to use the time I had left to make memories. The 1st time I saw you was when you came into my club and went straight to the piano. Sitting down and singing ‘Hello’ by Adele. I was having a meeting with Rebecca in the back office and was blown away but curious as to who I was hearing. When I saw this young woman with so much passion, I knew that you were special.

My good friend Mr. Calloway filled me in about you, and it made my picture of you even clearer. I saw so much passion, drive you had and knew that I had to leave you with something. Whether you choose the path of becoming a famous singer or something else, I wanted to leave you with the tools I had learned later in my career. Inside the box, I include some inspirations for you that helped me when I was just starting in the music industry and my little black book.

If you choose to want to pursue a career in music then the little black book is the key I am leaving to get it with no problems. I believe in you.

Thank you for igniting the passion for music again.

Your friend,

Mr. Wright.”

Reading that letter inspired me to pursue a career that makes me happy, and it helps that my boyfriend grew up in the industry to help me along. I looked up at Dustin and said, “I want to honor Mr. Wright by pursuing a career in music, and I think I know-how with this.” I raised the little black book.

What happens next, you will have to see because my journey is just truly beginning.