Queen Elera

Chapter 15: sleeps and sister

Vanessa and I exchanged a knowing glance as Lily peeked out from behind her teddy bear, her eyes wide and a little sleepy. I gently scooped her up, feeling her small arms wrap around my neck as she clung to me.

"Come on, sweetheart," I cooed softly, stroking her cheek as I held her close. "It's time to get you ready for bed." I started to gently bounce her in my arms as we walked, her head resting on my shoulder, feeling her little body relax into mine.

Vanessa followed us quietly into the bedroom, her steps light as she helped turn down the bed. Lily's eyes were starting to droop, but she was still watching Vanessa with that same shy curiosity.

As I laid Lily down on the bed, Vanessa sat on the edge, reaching out to stroke Lily's hair. "You did so well today, little one," she said in her soft, soothing voice. "Are you ready to get all cozy for sleep?"

Lily nodded slowly, rubbing her eyes with her little fists. I smiled down at her, reaching for her favorite onesie, a soft, pink garment covered in tiny stars. "Let's get you into this, my little star," I said, gently helping her out of her clothes and into the onesie.

Vanessa handed me a fresh pull-up, and we quickly got Lily ready for bed. She was so sleepy that she barely protested, just blinking up at us with those big, trusting eyes.

Before I tucked her in, Vanessa pulled something from her bag. It was Lily's teddy bear, now dressed in a brand-new outfit—an adorable little set of pajamas with tiny animals printed on them. "Look, sweetie," Vanessa said softly, holding out the bear to Lily. "Teddy got some new clothes today, just for you."

Lily's eyes lit up, a sleepy smile spreading across her face as she reached out for her teddy. She snuggled it close, her thumb slipping back into her mouth as she hugged the bear tightly.

"All snug and warm now," I whispered, pulling the covers up to her chin and tucking her in securely. I leaned down and kissed her forehead. "Mama and Auntie V'nessa are so proud of you, sweetie."

Lily's thumb stayed nestled in her mouth as she blinked sleepily up at us. Vanessa leaned in and kissed her cheek. "Sweet dreams, darling girl."

I turned on her nightlight, casting a soft, comforting glow in the room, and Vanessa and I quietly left the bedroom, leaving the door slightly ajar. As we walked back into the living room, I let out a small sigh, feeling the weight of the day begin to lift.

Vanessa smiled at me as she started tidying up the remnants of our tea party. "She's really something special, Elera," she said, her voice full of warmth. "You two make a perfect pair."

I returned her smile, grabbing a few plates and carrying them to the kitchen. "She's brought so much joy into my life. I didn't realize how much I needed her until she was here," I admitted, placing the dishes in the sink.

Vanessa joined me, picking up a dish towel to help dry. "It's clear how much she adores you. And it's good to see you so happy."

We worked quietly for a few moments, the only sound being the clink of dishes and the hum of the dishwasher. After a while, I turned to her, feeling the need to share more. "I worry sometimes, you know? About whether I'm doing enough for her, whether I'm being the kind of Mama she needs."

Vanessa stopped and looked at me with those wise eyes of hers. "Elera, you're doing more than enough. You're giving her a home, love, and security. That's what she needs most."

I nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. "I know, but it's nice to hear it. Especially from you."

Vanessa wrapped an arm around my shoulders, giving me a comforting squeeze. "You've always been strong, Elera, and now you're showing that same strength in how you care for Lily. She's lucky to have you, just as you are to have her."

We finished cleaning up the living room, putting away the tea set and straightening the cushions. As we worked, the conversation drifted to lighter topics—stories from Vanessa's travels, funny memories from our childhood, and plans for the future. The more we talked, the more I realized how much I had missed having my sister around.

Once everything was in its place, we finally sat down with a glass of wine each, savoring the quiet of the evening. I took a sip, feeling the warmth spread through me, and smiled at Vanessa. "Thanks for being here tonight. It means a lot."

She clinked her glass against mine. "Anytime, sis. Anytime."

As the night grew later, I started to feel the pull of sleep myself, but my thoughts kept drifting back to Lily, peacefully asleep in the other room. I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, we would face them together, surrounded by love and the family we were building, one day at a time.