Shining Star: Mya's Journey

Ch.2: Adjusting to the Spotlight

THE FIRST WEEK WITH Mya was a blur of new routines & joyful moments. Nick & Priyanka quickly learned to navigate the delicate balance between Mya's needs & the demands of their public lives.

~~~~~~~

It was early morning when Nick's phone buzzed again. He glanced at it, frowning. It was an alert from their publicist, Grace Lee. Priyanka, noticing his expression, looked up from where she was helping Mya with her breakfast.

"What's up?" she asked.

"It's Grace," Nick replied. "The paparazzi caught wind of Mya's adoption. They've got pictures of us leaving the agency."

Priyanka sighed, brushing a stray curl from Mya's forehead. "We knew this might happen. Let's call Grace & figure out how to handle it."

Nick nodded & dialed Grace's number. She picked up on the first ring. "Nick, Priyanka, we need to get ahead of this," Grace said without preamble. "A statement from you both would help control the narrative. Maybe a short interview?"

Nick glanced at Priyanka, who nodded in agreement. "Let's do this," Nick said. "We want to protect Mya as much as possible."

Grace's voice softened. "I'll arrange something low-key. Maybe we can frame it around the charity work you're both so passionate about, & introduce Mya in that context."

"Thanks, Grace," Priyanka said. "We appreciate your help."

After the call, Nick sat down beside Mya, who was now drawing on a piece of paper. "Hey, sweetie, do you want to go out today? We might meet some new people."

Mya looked up, her brow furrowed. "People?"

"Yes," Priyanka said gently. "But don't worry, we'll be right there with you."

~~~~~~~~

Later that afternoon, they headed to a children's center where Nick & Priyanka often volunteered. The place was bustling with activity, & Mya's eyes widened as they entered.

"Hi there, Mya," a cheerful voice called. It was Sarah Thompson, a child therapist who worked at the center & knew the Jonas family well. "Would you like to play some games with the other kids?"

Mya looked up at Nick & Priyanka, seeking reassurance. Nick knelt down beside her. "You can play here with Sarah & the other kids. We'll be just over there," he pointed to a nearby table where a few reporters & cameras were setting up.

Mya nodded hesitantly & took Sarah's hand. As she joined the other children, Nick & Priyanka approached the reporters.

One of the journalists, a friendly woman named Lisa, smiled warmly. "Thank you for doing this. We know it's not easy."

Nick took a deep breath. "We just want to make sure Mya's story is told with respect & love."

The interview began, and Nick & Priyanka spoke candidly about their decision to adopt Mya, her autism, & their commitment to supporting children with special needs.

"Mya has brought so much joy into our lives," Priyanka said, her eyes shining. "We're learning & growing every day because of her."

Nick added, "We want to use our platform to raise awareness about autism & support families going through similar journeys."

~~~~~~~~~~

As the interview wrapped up, they noticed Mya playing nearby, her laughter blending with the other children's.

"She seems to be adjusting well," Lisa observed.

Priyanka smiled. "She's resilient. Every day is a new adventure for her."

~~~~~~~~~

After the reporters left, Nick & Priyanka joined Mya at the play area. Sarah approached them, her expression thoughtful. "Mya is doing well, but it's clear she thrives on routine & familiarity. Changes can be tough for her."

"We're trying to keep her life as stable as possible," Nick said. "But our lives aren't exactly normal."

Sarah nodded. "Just be patient & give her time. She's a wonderful little girl."

~~~~~~~~~

On the drive home, Mya clutched a new stuffed animal that Sarah had given her. "Did you have fun today, Mya?" Priyanka asked.

Mya nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Fun."

Nick glanced at Priyanka, relief evident in his eyes. "We'll make this work," he said softly. "We'll find a way to balance everything."

As they pulled into the driveway, Nick & Priyanka exchanged a look of determination. They were a family now, & no matter what challenges laid ahead, they would face them together.