The Afton Family: Origins.

Chapter 26: That Brings Us to Today

Years passed, and life continued to move forward for the Afton family. The once small and playful children had grown, each developing their own personalities and interests. As time went on, the family had experienced both joyous moments and challenges, but through it all, they remained tightly knit, supporting one another in their journey through life.

Today, the Afton household buzzed with its usual morning activity. Michael, now 15, was preparing for his day with the same nonchalant attitude he had developed in his teenage years. He had grown taller, his features more defined, and his demeanor more aloof. He wore a dark hoodie, jeans, and a frown that seemed permanently etched on his face, a typical look for him these days.

Chris, now 12, had entered his early teens. He was still a quiet and sensitive soul, often finding solace in his room with his Fredbear plushie, which had become a comforting presence over the years. Chris was thoughtful and introspective, much more reserved than his older brother. His timid nature often made him a target for teasing, especially from Michael, who couldn't resist a good prank or joke at his younger brother's expense.

Elizabeth, the youngest at 5, was a burst of energy and curiosity. With her bright red hair tied in pigtails and a mischievous grin always on her face, she was the light of the family. Her eyes sparkled with an endless sense of wonder, and she had developed a deep fascination with her father's work, especially the animatronics. Her innocent questions and boundless enthusiasm kept everyone on their toes, always ready to discover something new.

The morning sun filtered through the kitchen windows as Clara served breakfast. She had watched her children grow with a mixture of pride and concern. Clara had always been the nurturing figure, making sure her family was well-fed, well-loved, and well-prepared for whatever life threw at them. She set down a plate of pancakes on the table, calling out to the children.

"Breakfast is ready!" she called, her voice carrying the warmth and authority of a mother who knew how to balance love with discipline.

Michael was the first to arrive at the table, grabbing a pancake and slathering it with syrup. "Morning, Mom," he mumbled between bites, barely looking up from his phone. Clara gave him a gentle smile, accustomed to his moody teenage behavior.

Chris shuffled in next, still rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "Morning, Mom," he said softly, taking his seat and carefully placing his Fredbear plush on the chair beside him.

"Good morning, sweetheart," Clara replied, her eyes softening as she noticed the plush. "Did you sleep well?"

Chris nodded, but his gaze remained downcast. Clara could sense the anxiety that often lingered around him, especially since he had started having nightmares again—nightmares filled with the haunting images of the animatronics his father built. She made a mental note to speak with him later, to see if there was anything she could do to help ease his fears.

Elizabeth burst into the room with her usual exuberance, her pigtails bouncing as she ran. "Morning, Mommy! Morning, Michael! Morning, Chris!" she chirped, climbing up onto her chair and eagerly reaching for a pancake.

Clara chuckled. "Good morning, Elizabeth. Remember to use your napkin, okay?"

"Yes, Mommy!" Elizabeth replied, though her attention was already on the syrup bottle she was struggling to open.

William entered the kitchen last, dressed in his usual work clothes. He looked tired, the lines on his face more pronounced from years of juggling his business and his family. Despite the exhaustion, there was a spark of determination in his eyes, the same one he had when he first started working with Henry to create their dream—an animatronic diner where families could come together for fun and joy.

"Morning, everyone," William said, ruffling Michael's hair as he passed by. Michael ducked away, grumbling, "Dad, stop that."

Chris smiled slightly at the familiar scene, while Elizabeth laughed. "Daddy, are you going to work on Circus Baby today?" she asked eagerly, her eyes wide with excitement.

William's expression softened at his daughter's innocent question. "Yes, Elizabeth," he replied. "I'll be at the diner today. But remember, Circus Baby is not safe for little children, okay? You need to stay away from her room."

Elizabeth pouted but nodded obediently. "Okay, Daddy. But she's so pretty. I just want to see her."

William chuckled and kissed the top of her head. "I know you do, darling. Maybe when you're older."

As breakfast continued, the family settled into their routine. Clara watched her children with a mix of emotions. She was proud of how they were growing up, but she also couldn't shake the feeling of concern that seemed to linger around them. The nightmares Chris was having, Michael's rebellious streak, and Elizabeth's dangerous curiosity about the animatronics all weighed heavily on her mind.

After breakfast, it was time for everyone to head out for the day. Michael grabbed his backpack and headed for the door, his phone still in hand. "See you after school," he called out without looking back.

Chris followed more slowly, clutching his Fredbear plush as if it were his lifeline. "Bye, Mom," he said quietly, giving her a small wave.

"Have a good day, Chris," Clara replied, watching him with a worried gaze. She wished she could do more to help him feel safe, but she knew that some things he would have to work through on his own.

Elizabeth bounced over to William, wrapping her arms around his leg. "Can I come to work with you today, Daddy?" she asked hopefully.

William knelt down to her level and smiled. "Not today, sweetheart. But maybe soon, okay? For now, I want you to stay safe."

Elizabeth nodded, her disappointment fading quickly as she ran off to get her shoes. Clara watched her go, her heart swelling with love for her spirited daughter. She turned to William, her expression serious.

"Be careful at the diner," she said softly. "And keep an eye on Elizabeth. She's getting too curious for her own good."

William nodded, his face taking on a more somber tone. "I will, Clara. Don't worry. Everything's under control."

Clara wasn't entirely convinced, but she smiled and kissed him on the cheek. "I love you," she whispered.

"I love you too," he replied, giving her a reassuring smile.

As the Afton family went their separate ways for the day, Clara stood in the doorway, watching them leave. She felt a deep sense of unease, a mother's intuition that something was changing, that their lives were on the brink of something unknown.

But for now, all she could do was hold onto hope and trust that, whatever came next, they would face it together as a family. The day ahead was just another chapter in their story, filled with the uncertainties and challenges of life. And through it all, the Aftons would remain united, bound by the love and strength they had built together.