You can't run away from yourself

ㅤ No matter how much Vera looked in the mirror, no matter how much she adjusted her personality, no matter how much she faked a smile, she couldn't quite capture what she wanted. The image she'd seen since childhood, full of life and optimism. The more Vera tried, the deeper she sank into despair: the vision proved unattainable, even in her dreams… And what's the point in trying? She was already mired in silent seriousness. If she showed up to work with a smile on her face, she would make a splash throughout the organization. The only way to clear her name and get rid of the annoying glances would be to lie blatantly that Nova had decided to play a prank on her sister. 'She's not like that…' Vera dismissed the thought. If she'd seriously tried to pull something like that off, she'd have hurt Nova more than herself. But Vera had no desire to harm her at all. Despite all the domestic squabbles and petty grievances, she was dear to her. And more often than not, Vera was the one who caused the arguments, unable to control her emotions in front of those closest to her. A budding envy… Vera has always been the best, an example for everyone. She was praised and held up as a role model for Nova. But the truth is, Nova was her role model. An unattainable ideal, from which Vera drifted further and further, mired in the image of a serious businesswoman. Strong and independent. Lonely… For so long she had been practicing the most suitable appearance for the secretary of the largest organization, developing her manner of speech, honing her manners and movements, in order to ultimately become a hostage to the image she had created with her own hands. As far as possible from someone who she always dreamed of being. Someone like her… Nova was never constrained by her nonsense. She always reacted to everything vividly and naturally, trying to maintain optimism even in the most difficult situations. Her smile supported Vera many times. She was her salvation… That is why Vera was so strongly drawn to her image. She wanted Nova to be with her always. Not only in her memory, but also in the mirror. She tried to learn to be happy. The next smile turned out a little more natural. With an exhale, as if with air, Vera released some of the oppressive emotions. She couldn't help but let out an ironic laugh at her own thoughts and appearance, her forehead touching the cool reflection soothingly. Immediately coming to her senses, she began to wipe the glass with a clean cloth, having first sprayed it with a special agent. Something always went wrong… ㅤ