𝘋𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘋𝘦𝘷𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟓𝟎.

The fragrance of cinnamon and sugar floated through the air, a distinctive aroma I could never mistake for another. 

It was the scent that defined my home—the place I held dear in Rome.

My blue-grey eyes teared up as I opened them, and there, in my familiar and beloved surroundings, stood my dino Smiley, faithfully stationed by my bedside. I embraced my small dinosaur tightly, the comforting touch anchoring me in the reality of being home. As my gaze swept across the beautifully framed pictures adorning my bedside table, each image stirred fresh memories, as vivid as if they had unfolded just yesterday.

With a profound sense of belonging, I realised—I was home. 

A quiet sob escaped me, carried on a fluttering breath, and I rose with haste. My little feet carried me swiftly to the one place I longed to be, guided by an overwhelming need to immerse myself in the embrace of the ones I loved more than anything. 

I carefully tiptoed across the hallway, my small hand reaching for the doorknob as I gently pushed open the bedroom door. Stepping inside, I stood frozen at the threshold, tears teetering on the edge of my eyes.

There they were—my daddy and my mummy—safe and sound. 

Daddy's robust, protective arms enveloped my mummy in a tight embrace, her delicate and pretty face nestled against the curve of his neck.

Relief washed over me as I realised it must have been just a nightmare.

My mummy and daddy were here, together. They were okay, and the enduring love between them was palpable in the quiet sanctuary of this room.

Suppressing a sob, I clutched my dino tightly, the recent turmoil leaving me shaken and overwhelmed. 

I didn't like the last few days. I didn't like being back in London. I didn't like seeing my mummy so sad and sick and exhausted. I didn't like not having daddy by our side. 

 I never wanted to leave Rome ever again. I wanted my family to stay here forever because we were so happy and safe here.