Shining Star: Mya's Journey

Ch.18: A Day of Healing

THE DAY AFTER Mya's surprise party, the hospital room was fills with a sense of calm & hope. The decorations were still up, & Mya's new toys & gifts were scattered around her bed. Nick & Priyanka woke up early, ready to start another day with their daughter.

"Mya, good morning, sweetheart," Priyanka said softly, striking Mya's hair.

Mya stirred & opened her eyes, a sleepy smile spreading across her face. "Good morning, Mommy! Did I dream the party?"

Nick chuckled, sitting on the edge of her bed. "No, it was real. Everyone came to celebrate you."

Mya's smile widened. "It was the best day ever."

~~~~~~~

After breakfast, a knock on the door announced the arrival of Mya's physical therapist, Sarah, a kind woman with a warm smile & gentle demeanor.

"Good morning, Mya," Sarah greeted cheerfully. "Ready for our session today?"

Mya nodded, looking determined. "Yes, I want to get stronger."

Nick & Priyanaka watched as Sarah helped Mya with her exercises, encouraging her with every small achievement.

"Great job, Mya," Sarah praised after a particularly difficult stretch. "You're doing amazing."

Mya beamed with pride. "Thank you, Sarah."

~~~~~~~~

After the session, Dr. Johnson came by for his daily check-up. He examined Mya, noting the improvements in her condition.

"You're looking better every day, Mya," he said, smiling. "Keep up the good work."

Mya looked at her parents, her eyes filled with hope. "Does that mean I'm getting better?"

Dr. Johnson nodded. "Yes, you're making good progress. But remember, it's a journey. We have to keep taking it one day at a time."

Nick squeezed Mya's hand. "We're with you every step of the of the way, Mya."

~~~~~~~~

Later in the day, Mya's art therapist, Emma, arrived with a new project. "Hi, Mya! I brought something special for us to work on today."

Mya's eyes lit up with excitement. "What is it?"

Emma revealed a blank canvas & set of vibrant paints. "We're going to create a masterpiece together. You can paint anything you like."

Mya thought for a moment, then smiled. "Can we paint another rainbow? Like the one at the party?"

Emma nodded, setting up the supplies. "Absolutely. Let's make it the most beautiful rainbow ever."

As Mya & Emma painted, Nick & Priyanka sat nearby, watching the colors come to life on the canvas.

"Look, Daddy!" Mya called, showing off her work. "I made the sky pink."

Nick grinned. "It's beautiful, Mya. I love it."

Priyanka leaned in, her eyes shining with pride. "You have such a wonderful imagination, Mya."

~~~~~~~

The room was filled with the peaceful sounds of brushes against canvas & Mya's joyful chatter. As they painted, Mya's energy seemed to grow, her spirit lifted by the creative process.

Just as they finished, the door opened, & in walked Nick's father, Kevin Sr., with a guitar in hand.

"Grandpa!" Mya exclaimed, her face lighting up.

Kevin Sr. smiled warmly, sitting down beside Mya. "I thought I'd bring some music to our little artist. What do you say we play a song together?"

Mya clapped her hands in excitement. "Yes, please!"

Nick picked up his guitar, joining his father. They began to play a soft, melodic tune, their voices harmonizing beautifully. Priyanka watched, her heart swelling with love & gratitude for the moments of joy & togetherness.

As the music filled the room, Mya sang along, her voice clear & sweet. For a moment, all the worried & fears melted away, replaced by the simple, pure joy of being together.

When the song ended, Mya looked up at her father & grandfather, her eyes sparkling. "That was beautiful. Thank you."

Kevin Sr. kissed her forehead. "You're our little sunshine, Mya. Your light makes everything better."

~~~~~~~

As evening approached, Nick & Priyanka prepared Mya for bed. She was tired but happy, her heart full from the day's activities.

"Mommy, Daddy," Mya said softly as they tucked her in. "Today was a good day."

Priyanka kissed her cheek. "Yes, it was, sweetheart. We're so proud of you."

Nick smiled, brushing a strand of hair from Mya's face. "Goodnight, Mya. We love you so much."

Mya closed her eyes, a contented smile on her lips. "I love you too."

As Mya drifted off to sleep, Nick & Priyanka sat by her side, their hands intertwined. The day had been filled with healing & happiness, a reminder of the strength & love that surrounded them.

"We'll keep finding ways to make her smile," Priyanka whispered, her voice filled with determination.

Nick nodded, his heart full. "Always, Pri. For Mya."

And with that promise, they turned off the lights, leaving the room bathed in the soft glow of their love & hope for the days to come.