Loves Unspoken Longing

6

Skylar

Today is our annual Angel Child Christmas event. Different kids from different backgrounds who aren't as fortunate come out to celebrate with the opportunity to play games, receive gifts, and to all around have an amazing Christmas.

The games were split into groups so that children of similar age groups compete against those one another, making it more fair for everyone involved.

Kids interested in fashion have the opportunity to learn how the company is operated, along with the chance to sketch and have their own special outfits created. A draft is later presented and five lucky kids between the ages of 10 and 17 will have the chance to participate in an 18 month-long mentorship program to expand their love and knowledge of fashion.

When the twins entered with Maverick and Gianna, my mommy heart almost exploded. They wore long button-down lapel jackets in cherry and forest green, with matching knee-length socks and black loafers. It's only been a few days but, I swear they've doubled in size.

As guests begin to arrive, I can't help but feel proud of everything we've accomplished in the past few years. There are moments when I want to leave this all behind, but being able to give back to my community will forever be one of the many things I love about my job and my success.

I looked around the room taking in the whole place. The repeating colors of red, black, green, surrounded the space while gold elegant decorations added balance bringing everything together. Servers were serving a variety of different food and beverages while everyone talked amongst themselves.

I took notice of all the different children running around, how carefree and happy they seemed despite the different struggles many of them go through on a daily basis.

"You outdid yourself, mon amour," Avi said as we stood overlooking the balcony. "The place looks amazing and everyone looks so happy. I'm glad people get to experience first hand how big your heart is in face of all the negativity the media gives you. The world deserves more selfless people like you and Maverick and I know you inspire so many people. I'm proud of you."

I wouldn't even get the words out of my mouth to respond without breaking down. I pulled her into a hug and held on until Mav so rudely interrupted.

"Aren't you supposed to be helping to co-host this party? The games are about to kick off. Why are we hiding away on the second floor?" He stated jokingly

"You're such an ass, let's go." I chuckled.

Following the games, it's safe to say everyone was exhausted. Luca was asleep on the couch in my office after running around hyped up on sugar all night, and we still had to draw for the mentorship program.

"May I have everyone's attention please," I announced as I made my way up to the second floor balcony. "We'll be concluding the night drawing the names for the mentorship program. May everyone please hold their applause until the end. Thank you."

As the crowd began to gather on the first floor, Maverick made his way over with a jar full of names.

"If and when your name is called, please join us on the balcony," Maverick added while giving the jar a twirl and tilting it towards me, signaling for me to take the first pick.

Lacy Odell, 16... Elias Rodrigo, 11... Aurora King, 18... Blair Ronan, 14... Case Hayes, 16

The room erupted in applause with the last name called, leaving me proud as I watched each child's face beam with happiness.

Once all the guests were gone and the space was left clean and spotless, and the girls were peacefully carried out of the office as they slept, we began our journey home.

That was until I caught a glimpse of what looked to be a young girl sitting outside on the curb. Being as cautious as could be with Luca in my arms, I made my way up to her trying not to scare her in the process.

"Briar is it?" I questioned, uncertain. She gave me a simple nod as her brown eyes peered up at me and that's when I noticed her tear-stained face. "Are you alright? It's been almost two hours. Do you need a ride home?"

Before she could respond, a blacked out Ford Crown Victoria came to a hurried halt just in front of us. She sent me a small smile before standing up, dusting off her dress, and walking towards the car.

As the door opened, a male who looked to be in his mid-thirties called out.

"Sorry I'm late, work ran late, and I got a bit carried away." He spoke. "Thanks miss."

And before I knew it the car was halfway down the street.

...

There's nothing I dread more than an early morning day traveling. With 4 days left until Christmas, Avielle, the girls, and I are all on our way to Colorado to meet up with a few family members, after watching the Radio City Rockettes perform here in New York yesterday evening.

We decided to surprise the girls while handling last-minute business here in NYC, as a lot of our time was spent at the Rockefeller Center doing various activities.

We even paid a trip to the Plaza Hotel because the girls have been obsessed with Eloise at Christmastime.

As we made our way towards our airport gate, I couldn't cease the excitement in me, anticipating our time in Aspen.

This year will be the first year back since the girls were babies, and I cannot wait to watch them create their own memories in one of the most beautiful places ever.

Maverick and Gianna will be joining us, along with my sister, her husband, and their girls, Navy and Isla.

Also joining us would be Avielle's younger brother with his girlfriend and their 2-year-old son, River.

After two flights and a 2-hour layover in between, we finally arrived at the villa and I felt enamored all over again.

The 15,000 square foot three-story villa sat on a private 3-acre mountain top with a beautiful view of the city below.

Between the 20-foot ceilings, the natural light flowing through the floor-to-ceiling windows in almost every room, and the large kitchen island, I'm not sure why we haven't returned sooner.

It took a while to get unpacked and situated, so with the girls out back with their dad and a hot shower later, I settled into the warm cozy couch prepared to take the best nap of my life.

Sorry for the long hiatus and the short chapter. Life has definitely been rough and I apologize! I'll be uploading the continuation to this chapter after my mothers memorial saturday :)