The Happiness Thief (TEGSA)

→08. A new dawn←

It had been almost a week since Maxwell's life-changing journey with Happiness through the realms of time. Seven days since he'd witnessed the dark future that could be, and seven days since he'd made a promise to himself to spread happiness and joy to those around him.

As he lay in bed, the morning sunlight peeking through the curtains, Maxwell felt a sense of excitement and anticipation wash over him. He could hardly believe the transformation that had taken place within him. The weight of his own selfish desires had lifted, replaced by a sense of purpose and belonging.

With a spring in his step, Maxwell throws off the covers and gets out of bed, ready to face the day ahead. He grabs his and runs to the lavatory to bath.

As Maxwell steps out of the shower, he can't help but whistle a happy tune. The warm water has washed away the lingering doubts and fears, leaving him feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. He wraps himself in a towel, his eyes twinkling with a newfound sense of purpose.

"Astronaut, my friend," he says, addressing the toy perched on his bathroom counter, "I think it's time for you to return the stars to the galaxy. You know, so everyone can enjoy the delightful view?"

The astronaut, with its shiny metallic surface and permanently fixed smile, seems to nod in agreement. Maxwell chuckles, feeling a sense of playfulness he hadn't experienced in ages.

As he gets dressed, he can't help but notice the way the sunlight streaming through the window highlights the dust motes dancing in the air. He feels a pang of gratitude for this ordinary, yet extraordinary, moment.

Downstairs, he finds his breakfast already laid out - a bowl of steaming hot cereal, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, and a sprinkling of colorful fruit on top. His mom has left a note, scribbled in her hasty handwriting: "Good morning, sweetie! I'm running late for work. Have a great day!"

Maxwell's heart swells with appreciation as he reads the note. He takes a bite of the cereal, savoring the sweet, comforting taste. For the first time in weeks, he feels like he's finally found his footing.

He hears his father,running from one room to another to either grab his tie, belt or shirt. His little brother Carl walks and tries to climb on the high chair. Maxwell immediately abandons his cereal,and helps Carl sit. He lovingly feds him,cleans the food around his lips with his fingers and gives him a kiss on the cheek.

As Maxwell tends to Carl, his father rushes into the kitchen, looking frazzled and flustered. "Morning, son! Sorry, I'm running late. Can you help me find my tie?" He pats his pockets, as if hoping the tie might magically appear.

Maxwell chuckles and points to the coffee table, where the tie is neatly laid out. "Right there, Dad. You'd forget your head if it wasn't attached, wouldn't you?" He teases, playfully ruffling his father's hair.

His father laughs, relief washing over his face. "You're a lifesaver, Maxwell. I don't know what I'd do without you."

As they share a warm moment, Maxwell's heart swells with gratitude. He realizes that his newfound sense of purpose isn't just about spreading happiness to others, but also about appreciating the people and moments that make his life richer.

"Now there,let's get you both to school!"
His father says. As they hurry out the door, Maxwell grabs his backpack and Carl's hand, feeling like a responsible big brother. His father ushers them into the car, and they set off on the familiar route to school.

During the drive, Maxwell gazes out the window, watching the houses and buildings blur by. He feels a sense of excitement and anticipation, wondering what the day will bring. Will he see Happiness again? Will he have a chance to spread some joy to his classmates?