THE BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT

IT'S WEEKEND

It was the weekend again—usually unusual, yet seemingly just like the working days. Mr. Andrew wished he could fast-forward time so it would come sooner than expected. But today, as he woke up, he was all smiles. He had planned a special father-and-daughter day with his little angel, Mira.

Getting up from bed, he slipped into his footwear and headed straight to her room.

As he opened the door, his heart melted at the sight before him. There, on her pink-decorated bed, lay his darling princess, sleeping peacefully, a soft smile gracing her lips—just like Disney’s Snow White. For several moments, he stood there, completely captivated, his mouth slightly agape. He marveled at the beautiful product of his youthful manliness and vigor.

"God is truly an artist," he whispered in admiration, his heart swelling with gratitude.

Not wanting to disturb Mira’s peaceful slumber, he turned to leave. But then, a thought struck him—this moment was too precious to let slip away. He decided to capture it for memory’s sake. Realizing he didn’t have his phone on him, he rushed back to his room, grabbed it, and returned within seconds. With a few quick snaps, he captured the breathtaking sight. Then, an idea crept into his mind—perhaps he could frame one of the photos and gift it to her on her fifth birthday. He smiled to himself; it wasn’t a bad idea at all.

Satisfied, he left for the kitchen to check on Fatima, their housekeeper. As he walked in, she greeted him warmly.

"Good morning, Sir."

"Good morning, Fatima," he replied.

She was busy washing the dishes from the previous night's dinner.

"What’s for breakfast?" he asked.

"Tea, bean cakes, and bread," she answered.

"I think that would be a bit heavy," he said thoughtfully. "Just prepare tea and bread for Mira, and I’ll have coffee."

"Alright, Sir," she nodded.

He then headed to his restroom to freshen up. Within minutes, he was done brushing his teeth and proceeded to take a quick bath, eager to get ready for the father-and-daughter outing.

Around half an hour later, Fatima informed him that breakfast was ready. But first, he had to wake Mira, who was still fast asleep. If left undisturbed, she would likely sleep in and delay their plans. Gently, he roused her, helped her to the restroom to brush her teeth, and then guided her to the dining area.

As they sat for breakfast, Mira ate cheerfully, her eyes still carrying traces of sleep but twinkling with excitement.

Once they were done, Mr. Andrew instructed Fatima to clean Mira up and dress her in a beautiful outfit—preferably pink since Mira adored Barbie and all things Disney. She could even sing along to the songs in the movies without missing a word.

When Fatima finished dressing her, Mira beamed with delight. She looked absolutely stunning, and Mr. Andrew couldn’t hide his admiration.

"Wow! My princess, you look amazing!" he exclaimed. "Come on, strike a few poses for Daddy."

Giggling, Mira twirled and posed as he snapped a few pictures.

"The pictures came out so beautiful!" he said proudly. "Come here, princess, give Daddy a hug."

She ran to him, and he scooped her up in a tight embrace. The moment felt truly magical.

Carrying her in his arms, he walked to the car and gently placed her in the front seat beside him. Just before starting the engine, he turned to her with a playful grin.

"Let’s play a game," he suggested.

"What game, Daddy?" she asked curiously.

"It’s called the Card Game. It’s very simple," he explained. "You close your eyes and pick a card from my hands."

"Okay, Dad!" she answered eagerly.

"Are you ready?"

"Yay!" she squealed in excitement.

"Close your eyes first," he instructed, and she obeyed.

Holding out two cards, he gave her a choice. One card had "Picnic" written on it, while the other had "Shopping, Games, and Eating Out."

Mira hesitated for a moment, unsure which to pick. Eventually, she reached out and selected one.

"Can I open my eyes now?" she asked.

"Of course, princess," he chuckled.

She blinked at him expectantly. "So, Daddy, what did I pick?"

Grinning, he revealed the card.

"Congratulations! We’re going shopping, playing games, and having lunch at a fancy restaurant."

"Yay! Thank you, Daddy!" she squealed, throwing her arms around him in excitement.

With that, they drove off to their destination—Kiddies Event Centre. The place held special memories for them; he had first brought her there on her first birthday, along with her mother.

Their first stop was the shopping arena, where he let Mira pick whatever she wanted. Her eyes sparkled as she eagerly filled the trolley with storybooks, toys, dresses, and shoes. Once satisfied, Mr. Andrew paid the bill at the reception area before leading her to the Game Show section.

There, Mira joined other children in various fun activities. Some were older than her, but she didn’t mind—she was having the time of her life. Her laughter rang through the air, and the sight of her joy made Mr. Andrew’s heart swell with pride.

For the final part of their outing, they headed to Star Eatery Restaurant. Over a delicious meal, Mira chatted excitedly about her day, her tiny hands gesturing animatedly. Mr. Andrew also bought her ice cream and snacks, as well as fried rice and turkey for Fatima back home.

As the day drew to a close, they drove home around 5 PM, exhausted but happy. It had been a perfect father-and-daughter day—one that would remain in their hearts forever.