Shining Star: Mya's Journey

Ch.16: Unexpected Visitors

AS MAYA CONTINUED her new treatment regimen, the routine of hospital life grew more familiar. The family found solace in small moments of joy, drawing strength from each other & their friends. One afternoon, as Nick & Priyanka sat by Mya's bedside, they heard a knock on the door.

"Come in," Nick called, curious.

The door opened to reveal Joe & Kevin once more, but this time they weren't alone. Behind them stood two figures that made Nick & Priyanka's eyes widen in surprise: Demi Lovato & Selena Gomez.

"Hey, guys!" Joe greeted, a wide grin on his face. "We brought some special guests."

Mya looked up from her coloring book, her eyes widening as she recognized the visitors. "Selena! Demi!"

Selena stepped forward, a warm smile on her face. "Hi, Mya. We heard you were here & thought we'd come by to say hello."

Demi followed, holding a small stuffed animal in her hands. "We brought you a little friend," she said, handing Mya a plush unicorn.

Mya's face lit up as she hugged the unicorn. "Thank you!"

Nick & Priyanka stood up to greet their friends, hugs & handshakes all around. "It's so good to see you both," Nick said, his voice filled with gratitude.

"We couldn't stay away once we heard," Selena replied, her eyes soft with concern as she looked at Mya. "How are you holding up, Mya?"

Mya, clutching her new unicorn, nodded bravely. "I'm okay,"

Priyanka smiled at her daughter, then turned to Selena & Demi. "Thank you for coming. It means so much to us."

Demi nodded, her expression serious. "Anything for you guys. And for Mya."

The group settled into the room, the atmosphere lifting with the arrival of their friends. Selena & Demi's presence brought a fresh wave of energy & comfort, their genuine concern & love for Mya palpable.

"So, what have you been up to, Mya?" Selena asked, sitting down beside her.

Mya proudly showed her coloring book. "I've been coloring rainbows & unicorns."

Selena's eyes sparkled as she looked through the pages. "These are amazing, Mya. You're a talented artist."

Demi sat on Mya's other side, smiling as she listened. "I love the colors you chose. They're so bright & happy."

As they chatted, Nick & Joe set up a game of Jenna on the table. "How about a game?" Nick suggested, looking at everyone.

Kevin nodded enthusiastically. "I'm in. What about you, Demi? Selena?"

"Count me in," Selena said, moving to the table.

"Me too," Demi added, laughing. "But I should warn you, I'm pretty good at this."

The game began, & the room filled with laughter & playful banter. Mya watched intently, giggling each time a block was carefully pulled from the tower.

"Your turn, Demi," Joe said, grinning. "Let's see if you can keep it from falling."

Demi squinted at the tower, choosing a block near the bottom. She carefully pulled it out, the tower wobbling slightly but staying intact. "Still standing!"

Mya clapped her hands. "Good job, Demi!"

~~~~~~~

As the game went on, the tower grew more precarious. Finally, it was Nick's turn. He looked at the tower, then at Mya. "Should I go for it, Mya?"

Mya nodded eagerly. "Go for it, Daddy!"

Nick carefully selected a block & pulled it out, but the tower swayed & then collapsed, sending blocks scattering across the table. Everyone erupted into laughter.

"Oops," Nick said, chuckling. "Guess I'm not as good as Demi."

Mya giggled, her eyes shining with happiness. "That was fun!"

As the laughter died down, Selena turned to Nick & Priyanka, her expression serious. "We've been thinking about you guys a lot. If there's anything we can do, please let us know."

Nick nodded, his voices with gratitude. "Just having you here means so much. It's been tough, but moments like this make it easier."

Demi nodded in agreement. "We're here for you, no matter what. You're not alone in this."

The room fell into a comfortable silence, the weight of their words hanging in the air. Nick & Priyanka exchanged a look of deep appreciation, their hearts full.

~~~~~~~~

As the afternoon turned into evening, Selena & Demi said their goodbyes, promising to visit again soon. "Stay strong, Mya," Selena said, giving her a gentle hug. "You're an inspiration to all of us."

Demi hugged Mya too, her voice soft. "Keep being brave. We'll be back to see you soon."

After they left, the room felt quieter but still filled with the warmth of their visit. Nick & Priyanka tucked Mya into bed, their hearts buoyed by the support of their friends.

"Today was a good day," Mya murmured sleepily.

"It was, sweetheart," Nick replied, brushing a strand of hair from her forehead. "We have the best friends in the world."

Priyanka kissed Mya's cheek. "And the best daughter."

As Mya drifted off to sleep, Nick & Priyanka sat beside her, their hands intertwined. They knew the road ahead would be challenging, but with the love & support of their friends & family, they felt ready to face whatever came next.

And as the stars began to twinkle outside the hospital window, they made a silent vow to continue finding moments of joy & strength, no matter how difficult the journey. For Mya. Always for Mya.