Unexpected - The Enigma.

Chapter-17

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' My little dove ,
you are the only thing that I would die for .
My twinkling star .
I will love you to the moon and back .
Not because the universe bound us together
but after knowing you ,
seeing your pure innocent beauty ,
my heart
only beats for you '

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As Anaya entered the kitchen, she was greeted by the warm aroma of dinner preparations. Ava, the queen, stood amidst the bustle, overseeing the two maids as they expertly chopped vegetables and stirred pots. Anaya had freshened up and changed into a casual yet stylish outfit, pairing tight jeans with a high-neck pastel pink sweater and her trusty boots.

Ava turned to Anaya, a gentle smile on her face. "How was your day, sweetheart?" she asked, her voice infused with warmth.

Anaya's face lit up with a happy grin. "It was good. I also made a new friend," she replied, her eyes sparkling with excitement, as she shared the highlight of her day.

Ava's hands moved deftly as she mixed the batter, the aroma of sweet chocolate wafting through the air. "Well, very good," she said, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Now, sit still. Arther told me you love to eat chocolate muffins, and I'm making them for dessert tonight."

Anaya's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Did he?" she asked, her voice tinged with surprise. She hadn't explicitly told Arther about her fondness for chocolate muffins. However, she recalled a conversation with Jeon's mother, where she had mentioned her liking for muffins. "How did he know?" she wondered, her mind racing with curiosity. "He wasn't there at that time," she mumbled to herself, her brow still furrowed in puzzlement.

Ava's gaze turned inquiring. "Hmm? Did you say something?"

Anaya quickly composed herself, offering a bright smile. "Nothing, Mom. I was just saying it looks delicious.”

As Anaya addressed Ava as "Mom," a warm smile spread across Ava's face. It was a term of endearment that sounded sweet to her ears, and she was touched by Anaya's affection. Anaya, too, felt a sense of comfort and belonging, and she was grateful to have Ava and Vinceno in her life. As she pondered the possibility of a future with Arther, she couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and hope.

Anaya's gaze turned curious as she asked, "Mom, where is my Ma? I was looking for her, but I couldn't find her." Ava's expression turned apologetic as she replied, "Oh dear! I totally forgot to tell you this. Shali has gone to meet with your teacher, our royal sorceress. As you know, after this week, you'll need to start your proper training for your magic."

Anaya's eyebrows furrowed slightly. "Oh. But why didn't she call me?" Ava offered a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Anaya. She must have been in a hurry, that's why she told me to inform you." Anaya hummed thoughtfully, her eyes gazing downward as she took a seat on one of the stools.

As they chatted, Anaya's curiosity got the better of her, and she began to watch Ava intently, eager to learn the secrets of her muffin-making skills. Ava smiled, pleased to share her expertise with Anaya, and revealed that this was her secret recipe, passed down through generations. As they worked together, Ava felt a sense of joy and connection, delighted to discover that Anaya was not only a kind and gentle soul but also someone who valued relationships and made an effort to bond with those around her.

Ava's heart swelled with affection as she observed Anaya's friendly and sweet nature, qualities that she had grown to love and admire in this young girl. The way Anaya interacted with her, asking questions and showing genuine interest in her life, made Ava feel seen and appreciated. As they worked together, side by side, Ava felt a deep sense of connection and belonging, grateful for the opportunity to share this special moment with Anaya.