Blessing in Disguise

Chapter 122: Snow Leopard

Following a delightful morning at FAO Schwarz and receiving exciting news from Victor, Seher, Meher, and Maximilian headed to the famed Serendipity 3 on 60th Street. Known for its unique menu and charming decor, they indulged in a hearty lunch with all the signature dishes: the footlong hot dog, chicken pot pie, and Seher's favorite, the veggie edamame burger, due to her preference for soy-based foods. The afternoon was made even more special with the famous frozen hot chocolate at this iconic café.

Post-lunch, the family retreated to their hotel to relax and for Meher's much-needed nap. By three, they were comfortably back at The Plaza, with the little one tucked into bed in cozy attire, while Seher and Maximilian rejuvenated with a soothing shower.

At four in the evening, they were reenergized for the next adventure: an iconic shopping spree in Times Square. They explored various renowned shops like the Disney Store, M&M's World, H&M, Sephora, and Uniqlo, picking out an array of outfits, particularly for Meher, who was enchanted by the dresses and their matching accessories and shoes. Seher also picked up several items for her soon-to-arrive niece or nephew, while Maximilian, the ever-supportive partner and father, cheerfully managed all their shopping bags. Their evening meal featured the iconic New York pizza at John's Pizzeria. Following the meal, the real excitement began.

Maximilian had orchestrated a special night for his girls: a Broadway show starring Aladdin. Strolling leisurely from Times Square to the New Amsterdam Theatre, they arrived with 30 minutes to spare before the curtain rose and took their places in the VIP box seats. With snacks in hand, they readied themselves for the spectacle ahead.

Maximilian, while not particularly keen on the show, found himself enchanted by his daughter, who joyfully sang along with each tune, her face alive with emotion. The audience's thrill was tangible as "Friend Like Me" commenced and Aladdin stumbled upon the genie's lamp. The awe-inspiring flying carpet sequence and Aladdin's rendezvous with Jasmine comprised a magical first act that utterly captivated Meher.

With the close of the first act and onset of intermission, the family paused to savor the spellbinding show they'd been part of. Watching his daughter's rapture and Seher's contentment filled Maximilian with profound delight.

After the show, they returned to their hotel, enjoying the renowned New York cheesecake. That evening, they drifted off to sleep, grinning, their minds replaying the day's delightful bustle. It seemed a promising future lay ahead, and judging by the day's events, it appeared that the future had already commenced.

Seher awoke the next morning, which was both her and her daughter's birthday, with a beaming smile and sent a quick prayer above. The previous day's hope had sparked delightful dreams. In her dream, she envisioned a child, not yet known to them, frolicking with Meher in the Romanov mansion's backyard. It was a serene day in her dream, filled with love from those around her, a sense of belonging and stability. While the specifics eluded her, the dream left an overwhelmingly positive impression. A bit superstitious, Seher took this as an auspicious sign for the year ahead.

However, her smile faded to a frown upon hearing muffled yelling from the other side of the door. Driven by curiosity, she covered her almost naked self with one of Maximilian's T-shirts along with her pajamas and stepped out to investigate. The sounds led her to Maximilian in the suite's living room, his expression twisted in fury as he barked into the phone in fluent, intense Russian, a sure sign of deep emotion.

Seher perched on a stool, observing Maximilian as he strode back and forth across the living room, his voice sharp as he spoke into the phone. "Sejcas ne vremya brosat mne vyzov, Mat. Pover mne, esli te popytaeshsya peresec moyu semyu, budut posledstvia, kotorye tebe ne ponravyatsya" he warned. 
(This is not the time to challenge me, Mother. Believe me, if you try to cross my family, there will be consequences, ones you won't fucking like.)