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At the blueberry girl's house, Zulmi adjusted her loose curls, securing them with a small ribbon in the center. Her hair looked curlier than ever, spiraling like tiny springs, while her face displayed a soft glow with light makeup that discreetly caught the attention of anyone nearby. Around her hair, a dark navy blue ribbon decorated with small cosmos flowers. She wore a dress she never imagined she would wear, although she had to admit it surprisingly suited her bluish skin. The outfit was an "Emmy" style lace dress, modest and comfortable, without slits or overly thin layers, which made her think she could probably wear it in many other places as well. Its color palette resembled the outfits she used to wear in videos for the "Torajo World" channel, harmonizing whites, blues, and yellows like a seaside painting.
When it came to shoes, Zulmi wanted something comfortable but that still maintained a simple and elegant look. Slippers would have sufficed... if her skincare routine weren't practically sacred. So, instead, she chose a pair of flats with black and white socks in soft shades of blue.
"I look absolutely stunning today!" declared Zulmi excitedly, already feeling the energy she would expend in the afternoon.
As soon as she stepped away from her vanity, she stood up from the armchair that had held her while she got ready. She walked toward her bedroom door, grabbing her purse—already packed with all her essentials—and leaving her room. Walking through the hallways of her house, she stopped by the kitchen for a sip of water before heading out, only to be startled by the sound of footsteps behind her. To her relief, it was just her butler.
"Are you going somewhere, Miss Zulmi?" he asked formally, while clearing the lunch dishes from the dining table.
"Just going out for a bit around Verade. You know, to catch some fresh air up around Avocado Hills," she replied with an optimistic smile.
"Would you like me to drive you in the limousine, or should I prepare your motorcycle?"
"Ah..." The brunette paused to think. It might be nice to use a different mode of transportation for a change. Turning her attention back to the older man, she said, "I think I’ll walk."
The butler’s eyes widened, but he didn't dare question her choice. Even for her, choosing to go without her private vehicles was quite a surprise.
"I must say I am surprised, but I will not stop you." He bowed his head in a respectful nod, looking up at her. "But do be careful, my dear. Especially if you end up taking a public bus!"
Zulmi laughed at his concern and nodded. Even though she wasn't planning on taking the bus, she knew how dangerous transit could get in certain neighborhoods of Verade. Still, she wasn't worried; she was too excited, and she knew that if anyone dared to touch a single one of her curls, she would put on a "show" they wouldn't forget.
"I’m heading out now, I only came in for a quick drink of water..." She walked briskly back to the hallway, but paused for a moment, holding onto the kitchen doorframe. "...Tell Mother I won't be late and not to worry!"
"Of course, Miss!"
Satisfied, she finally stepped out of her house and made her way toward the main street. It felt strange to be walking at such a leisurely pace in sandals and an outfit that could be considered bold and beachy. However, if she caught the eye of passersby—or even fans from her world—she didn't mind showing off. After all, she loved being in the spotlight.
"Where should my first stop be?" an innocent question popped into her mind.
Her amber eyes scanned everything in sight.