Celestial Ties

CHAPTER 7

Evelyn POV

I stood in front of my bedroom mirror, my heart fluttering with excitement and a touch of nervousness as I took in my reflection. The week had flown by in a blur, each day a stepping stone leading to this momentous Friday. Today wasn't just any day—it was packed with significance. A major presentation at work awaited me, the culmination of countless hours of preparation, and I would also be bidding farewell to Mr. West as he left the healthcare center. I found myself silently hoping that this time, his departure would be permanent. He was on the mend, after all, and the thought of him finally being able to return home filled me with a sense of relief.

I had carefully selected my outfit for the day—my green and purple floral gown, affectionately dubbed my "good luck gown." Its vibrant hues seemed to mirror the optimism I felt bubbling just beneath the surface. The soft fabric caressed my skin, making me feel both comfortable and confident. I adjusted my hair in the mirror, pulling it into my usual not-so-messy bun. The familiar style felt like a little piece of home, practical yet effortlessly chic, and it grounded me as I prepared for what lay ahead. My shoulder handbag hung from my arm, its weight both comforting and a reminder of the responsibilities the day would bring.

"Today is going to be amazing, Evelyn," I whispered to myself, the words a mantra of positivity as I gazed into the mirror. A hopeful smile played on my lips as I leaned in and blew a kiss to my reflection—a small, playful ritual that always boosted my spirits. The day was brimming with potential, and I felt a quiet, determined energy building within me. I was ready to embrace it all.

With a deep breath, I stepped away from the mirror and left my room, the anticipation of what lay ahead buzzing through my veins like a gentle current. As I walked through the passage, the comforting aroma of freshly baked pie hovered through the air, wrapping around me like a warm hug. It was a scent that spoke of home, of love, and of all the little things that made life beautiful. I followed it eagerly to the kitchen, where I found my mum expertly removing two golden pies from the oven. The kitchen was bathed in the soft morning light, and the warmth of the room seemed to echo the warmth in my heart. It was the perfect start to a day I hoped would be wonderful.

"Good morning, Mum!" I called out, my voice laced with the excitement I felt.

"Good morning, my love," she responded with a warm, knowing smile. "Off to work already?"

I twirled in front of her, my green and purple floral gown swirling around me in a delicate dance. "How do I look?" I asked, my tone light but filled with a need for her approval.

"You look so beautiful," she said, her eyes shining with pride and affection. "Like mother, like daughter."

We shared a laugh, the sound of it filling the kitchen and lifting my spirits even higher. In that moment, I felt a surge of gratitude for these small, joyful exchanges—the kind of moments that made life sweet. "Thank you," I said, my voice softening with genuine appreciation.

My gaze drifted to the pies cooling on the counter, their golden crusts promising a taste of heaven. "I really wish I could have some of your pies, Mum, but I'd be late, and the sweetness might make me forget about my whole presentation!" I teased, imagining the rich, tempting aroma pulling me away from the tasks of the day.

"I'll save some for you when you get back," Mum replied, her voice tinged with a hint of regret that I couldn't stay longer. "Please come back on time."

"I will," I promised, my heart squeezing a little at the thought of her waiting for me. "Today's just work and then the healthcare center to see Mr. West. It's his last day there—again—for the fifth time this year." I chuckled, shaking my head at the thought of Mr. West's frequent returns to the healthcare facility, even when he was perfectly fine. His visits were almost a routine now, and I couldn't help but find it endearing in a strange way.