Entering the hotel room, Zelia turned the handle and stepped inside, greeted by her children rushing towards her for hugs. "Why are you still up? I've told you not to wait for me if I'm not back by 10:00 pm. It's way past your bedtime," she scolded gently, though her stern expression softened as she looked into their eager faces. Their giggles filled the room as they apologized, and Zelia couldn't help but sigh.
"It's okay, I suppose," she relented, ruffling their hair affectionately. "But promise me you'll get some rest. We have a big day ahead tomorrow."
"A big day? What big day?" Layla asked, twisting her neck to face her mother. Zelia motioned for the kids to sit on the couch, and they complied. Sandra emerged from her room, quietly joining them.
"How did it go?" Sandra murmured, he
