Queen Elera

Chapter 13: Meeting Auntie Vanessa

As I sat with Lily asleep in my arms, a gentle knock on the door startled me out of my thoughts. I carefully repositioned her on the couch, ensuring she stayed snug and comfortable, then rose to see who was there.

Opening the door, I was greeted by a familiar and welcome face—my sister, Vanessa. She stood with a bright smile, holding a small gift wrapped in cheerful paper.

"Hello, sister," she said warmly, stepping inside. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

"Not at all," I replied, gesturing for her to come in. "I'm so glad you're here."

Vanessa glanced over at the couch where Lily lay, peacefully asleep. "Oh, she's adorable," she whispered, setting the gift down quietly. "Is this the little one you've been telling me about?"

I nodded, a smile spreading across my face. "Yes, this is Lily. She's everything I could have hoped for and more."

We moved to the kitchen to prepare a late snack, speaking softly so as not to disturb Lily. Vanessa suggested we make a small feast of fruit, cheese, and crackers—a simple but delightful treat. I agreed, knowing Lily would appreciate it.

As we worked together, Vanessa and I caught up on life in the fairy kingdom and beyond. She shared tales of her recent travels and how she had been eagerly anticipating this visit. "It's wonderful to see you so happy," Vanessa remarked, arranging the cheese slices with care. "And to see the way you look at Lily—it's clear she means the world to you."

"It's been a joy having her here," I replied, my voice full of warmth. "She's brought so much light into our world. I've loved watching her grow and find her place among us."

Vanessa nodded, glancing back at Lily with a gentle smile. "I brought a little something for her," she said, gesturing to the gift she had placed on the table. "Just a small welcome to the family."

I appreciated the gesture, knowing how much thought Vanessa put into her gifts. "Thank you," I said sincerely. "She'll love it, I'm sure."

After preparing the snacks, we carried the tray back to the sitting area. We also poured ourselves glasses of wine to enjoy with the snacks.

I gently nudged Lily awake, watching as her eyes fluttered open and she blinked up at us, a little confused at first. Then she saw me and broke into a sleepy smile.

"Hi, sweet pea," I said, reaching out to her. "I have someone special I'd like you to meet."

Lily sat up, rubbing her eyes. "Who, Mama?"

"This is my sister, Auntie Vanessa," I said, introducing her.

Vanessa waved gently. "Hello, Lily. I've heard so much about you."

Lily blinked shyly at Vanessa and tucked her thumb into her mouth, glancing between her teddy and me. I could tell she felt nervous about meeting someone new. She pulled her teddy bear close, hiding her face behind its plush body, and her eyes were still heavy with sleepiness.

"It's okay, little one," I soothed, rubbing her back gently. "Auntie Vanessa is very nice, and she brought you a present."

Vanessa crouched down to Lily's level, her voice soft and full of warmth. "I've got something special just for you, sweetie," she cooed, holding out the small package with a reassuring smile. "I promise you'll love it."

Lily peeked out from behind her teddy, her curiosity piqued. Vanessa's gentle demeanor seemed to ease her shyness. With a tiny nod, Lily edged closer, still partially hiding behind her bear. I helped her unwrap the gift to reveal a plush fairy doll with iridescent wings.

"Oh!" Lily gasped, her eyes wide with delight. "Pretty!"

"I thought you might like her," Vanessa said, keeping her tone soothing and gentle. "She can be your friend here in the fairy kingdom."

Lily hugged the doll close, her face beaming with happiness. "Thankies, Auntie V'nessa," she said softly, her shyness beginning to fade but her voice still heavy with sleep.

"You're very welcome, sweetie," Vanessa replied, giving Lily a warm smile.

I watched the exchange with warmth in my heart, grateful for the connection they were forming. It meant a lot to me to have my sister welcome Lily so openly.

As we settled with our snacks and wine, Lily eyed our glasses with curiosity. "Can I have some juice, Mama?" she asked, her voice quiet and shy as she reached toward my glass.

I gently pulled it back, smiling at her. "No, sweetheart, this is big girl juice," I explained. "How about we get you some apple juice instead?"

Lily nodded, still eyeing the wine with interest. "Appie joos," she repeated, her small voice full of eagerness.

I held out my hand to her, lifting her into my arms to fetch her some apple juice. Vanessa followed us to the kitchen, chuckling at Lily's enthusiasm.

With her sippy cup full of juice, we returned to the living room and continued our little gathering.

Vanessa gently coaxed Lily to sit between us, her voice playful and engaging. "Do you like your juice, little one?" she asked, ruffling Lily's hair affectionately.

Lily giggled softly, nodding as she took a big sip. "Yummy, Auntie V'nessa!"

Vanessa beamed at her, clearly delighted by Lily's growing comfort. "I'm so glad," she said. "Maybe we can play some games later, too?"

Lily's eyes sparkled with interest, and I could see her shyness fading as Vanessa's warmth enveloped her. But she was still sleepy, leaning against me and yawning.

"Now, how about we all have a little tea party?" I suggested, knowing how much Lily enjoyed such things, especially when she was feeling shy and sleepy.