The living room, illuminated in the soft glow of the fireplace, was a haven of warmth and comfort. Sora and Mia, wrapped in cozy shawls, sipped hot chocolate and nibbled on gingerbread cookies. The lingering excitement of the concert still danced in Mia's eyes, her words tumbling over each other as she recounted every detail.
“Mom, you were so epic! Just cool!”
"And then, when Maxwell changed the song, everyone was so surprised! But it was even better than the original! And did you see how much fun you had, Mom?" she teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
Sora, her cheeks flushing with a rosy hue, playfully swatted her daughter's arm. "Don't be exaggerate, Mia. I just danced a bit and that’s all. But it was so crowded, my gosh!”
"Uh-huh, sure," Mia giggled, taking another bite of her cookie. "And I'm the Queen of Evergreen."
Soon a great comfortable silence settled between them, disrupted only by the crackling of the fire and the clinking of their mugs. Then, Mia's expression shifted, a hint of anticipation in her voice.
"Mom, when is Uncle Ronald arriving? I can't wait to see him!"
"I spoke to him earlier," Sora replied. "He got caught up with some work and couldn't make it today, but he promised he'll be here tomorrow for sure."
"He better be," Mia declared with mock seriousness. "I wouldn't want him to miss my birthday party."
"Oh my goodness!" Sora exclaimed, her eyes widening. "I can't believe you're turning seventeen tomorrow. It feels like just yesterday you were born, a tiny little bundle in my arms."
Waves of nostalgia washed over her, bringing with it a mix of emotions – pride, joy, and a great sense of happiness at how quickly time was passing. She looked at Mia, her beautiful, vibrant daughter, on the cusp of adulthood. It was hard to believe that the little girl who used to play dress-up and have tea parties with her stuffed animals was now a young woman with dreams and aspirations of her own.
Mia, sensing her mother's shift in mood, reached out and squeezed her hand. "Don't get all sentimental on me, Mom," she said with a warm smile. "I'm still your little girl, even if I am turning seventeen."
“Always remember age is just a number, mama!” Kia added, squeezing her hard. Her mother can be too much sometimes. The way she has always been.
Just her, Sora Wayne!
Sora returned the squeeze, her heart swelling with love. "You'll always be my little girl, Mia," she whispered, a tear glistening in her eye. "No matter how old you get."
As the fire crackled and the snow fell softly outside, great sense of peace and contentment settled over them. The concert, the crowd, the unexpected encounter with a rock star… it all faded into the background, overshadowed by the warmth of their bond and the joy of shared moments. Tomorrow would bring new adventures, new challenges, and new surprises. But for tonight, they were content to simply be, together, in the warm embrace of their home.
Sora smiled watching how Mia was battling with her hazy eyes. The girl continued scratching her eyes trying to take away the sleep in them.
But it was a thief, sleep finally got her and she fell heavily asleep.
Her sleepy-eyed baby girl.
***
The morning sunlight streamed through the kitchen window, sending a cheerful glow on Sora as she bustled around, preparing for the day ahead. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, along with the sweet scent of pancake batter. Mia, still sleepy-eyed, emerged from her room, yawning and stretching.
"Morning, birthday girl!" Sora greeted her with a warm smile. "Pancakes are almost ready."
Mia, her face breaking into a wide grin, hugged her mother. "Thanks, Mom! This is going to be the best birthday ever!"
“Because I know you will make it one.”
After a leisurely breakfast, Sora announced her plans for the day. "I'm heading to the market to get everything we need for your party tonight. Any special requests?"
"Hmm," Mia pondered, tapping her chin. "Lots and lots of cake! And maybe those cute little fairy lights you saw at the store the other day?"
"Consider it done," Sora assured her. "Now, I need to check on something at the resort before I go. I won't be long."
Sky Resort, nestled beside the snow-capped mountains, was Sora's pride and joy. She had poured her heart and soul into creating a haven of tranquillity and luxury, and she took great pride in ensuring her guests had a memorable experience. Even on Mia's birthday, she couldn't resist the urge to check in and make sure everything was running smoothly.
It was her job to make sure it’s all running smoothly.
A short drive later, Sora found herself in the resort's lobby. Guests, wearing their winter jackets, were checking in, their faces filled with anticipation for their New Year's holiday. Sora, with a practised eye, surveyed the scene, noting the efficiently moving staff, the festive decorations, and the overall air of room.
She exchanged greetings with the front desk staff, inquiring about any issues or special requests. Satisfied that everything was under control, she made her way to the resort's renowned spa, a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. Peeking into the tranquil treatment rooms, she observed guests enjoying massages and facials, their stresses melting away under the expert care of the therapists.
Yeah, Sky Resorts offers the best only!
Immense satisfaction filled Sora as she left the resort. Sky Resort was thriving, a testament to her hard work and dedication. She knew her guests were in good hands, allowing her to focus on the more important task at hand – celebrating her daughter's birthday.
And soon she drove back towards town, her thoughts drifting back to the concert, the unexpected encounter with the legendary Maxwell, and the lingering warmth of his gaze. A smile played on her lips. Perhaps this birthday wouldn't just be special for Mia.