Orchards and Moonlight - a Mialotte story (TNN)

Pure happiness

As the sun rose on Michael's first birthday, the house was abuzz with excitement. Autumn and Winter had been preparing for weeks, determined to make this milestone as special as possible. Streamers and balloons were strewn about, and a colourful cake was carefully decorated on the dining table. The scent of freshly baked goods and savoury treats filled the air, creating a festive atmosphere that promised a joyful celebration.

Autumn was bustling around the house, putting the final touches on the decorations and making sure everything was in place. Her energy was unwavering, despite the exhaustion that had begun to creep in over the past few days. Winter was by her side, juggling last-minute tasks and making sure everything ran smoothly.

Suddenly, while arranging the party favours, Autumn paused and clutched her stomach. Her face turned pale, and she stumbled towards the kitchen. Winter noticed immediately and rushed to her side.

"Autumn, are you okay?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.

Without responding, Autumn's face contorted with discomfort, and she barely made it to the sink before she was overtaken by a wave of nausea. She bent over, her body shaking as she vomited. Winter quickly moved to her side, rubbing her back soothingly and trying to offer comfort.

"Autumn, what's happening? Are you feeling alright?" Winter's voice was tinged with worry.

After a few moments, Autumn took a shaky breath and straightened up. Her cheeks were flushed, and she looked visibly pale. "I'm sorry, Winter. I don't know what's wrong. I just suddenly felt so sick."

Winter gently helped her to sit down at the kitchen table, where he fetched a cool cloth and placed it on her forehead. "You've been working so hard. Maybe you've overdone it. Let's get you some water and see if that helps."

As Autumn sipped the water, Winter's concern didn't wane. He kept a close eye on her, making sure she was comfortable. "Maybe we should call a doctor, just to be safe," he suggested. "It's important to make sure you're okay, especially with all the preparations."

Autumn nodded, her head still spinning a bit. "Yes, you're right. I just want to make sure everything is alright."

Winter picked up the phone and dialled their family doctor while Autumn rested. The doctor's advice was clear: Autumn needed to take it easy and get some rest. It was likely a case of food poisoning or a stomach bug, but it was best to be cautious.

With the doctor's guidance, Winter made arrangements for someone to take over the remaining party preparations. He then focused on ensuring Autumn was as comfortable as possible.

As the day wore on, guests began to arrive, and despite Autumn's illness, the party was in full swing. Winter took on the role of host, greeting guests and making sure the festivities went smoothly. Autumn, though still feeling under the weather, managed to join the celebration for a short while, sitting comfortably and enjoying the sight of her son's first birthday party.

As the birthday party for Michael continued, the house was filled with laughter and the joyous sounds of celebration. Friends and family mingled, children played, and the cake was served. The atmosphere was one of happiness and excitement, but amidst the cheer, Charlotte's keen eyes noticed Autumn's less-than-ideal state.

Charlotte approached Autumn, who was seated on a comfortable chair near the edge of the room. Despite the festive decorations and the bustling activity, Autumn looked visibly pale and tired. Her usually vibrant demeanour was subdued, and she seemed to be struggling with the energy required for the festivities.

"Hey, Autumn," Charlotte said gently as she sat down beside her. "You don't look so well. Is everything okay?"

Autumn managed a weak smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "I'm just feeling a bit under the weather," she admitted. "I got sick earlier today, but I'm trying to power through it. I didn't want to let it spoil Michael's special day."

Charlotte's concern deepened. "You shouldn't have to push yourself if you're not feeling well. Have you seen a doctor or talked to Winter about it?"

Autumn nodded, her expression weary. "Yes, Winter called the doctor, and they said it's probably just a stomach bug or something. I'm just taking it easy. I didn't want to miss out on this day for Michael."

Charlotte placed a comforting hand on Autumn's shoulder. "I understand, but you need to take care of yourself too. Michael's not going to mind if we have to scale back a little. Let me help you."

Autumn appreciated the gesture, though she was hesitant to let others take over. "You've got enough on your plate already with your own family and the party. I don't want to be a burden."

Charlotte shook her head firmly. "It's not a burden, Autumn. We're friends, and I want to make sure you're okay. Let's get you something to drink and make sure you're comfortable. If you need to lie down, that's perfectly fine."

With Charlotte's support, Autumn was able to relax a bit more. Charlotte fetched a glass of water and made sure Autumn had a comfortable spot to rest. As she returned to the party, Charlotte kept an eye on her friend, making sure that Autumn was looked after and that Winter was informed about her condition.

The party went on, and despite the earlier hiccup, it turned out to be a wonderful celebration. Autumn's health improved slightly as she rested, and she was able to join in the festivities for a while longer. Seeing the joy on Michael's face made the day feel special, even with the challenges that had arisen.

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The morning after Michael's first birthday party, Autumn woke up feeling slightly better, though the exhaustion from the festivities lingered. The previous day's events had left her feeling off, and she decided to visit her doctor for a check-up, hoping to get to the bottom of her lingering discomfort.

Winter, though worried about Autumn, encouraged her to go. At the doctor's office, Autumn was seen promptly. She explained her symptoms, including the nausea and recent episodes of vomiting. The doctor decided to run a series of tests to determine the cause of her illness.

As Autumn waited for the results, she tried to distract herself with thoughts of Michael's birthday party and the joy it had brought. The doctor finally returned with the results, and Autumn braced herself for the news.

"Well... I believe I have some good news for you..."