One Night

Middle school

The sun peeked through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the Cantrall-Baker household. It was the first day of middle school for Ava, and the excitement in the air was palpable. Kylie Cantrall and Malia Baker moved about the kitchen, preparing breakfast and trying to manage the morning rush with their baby, Kody, in his high chair, babbling happily.

"Are you ready, sweetie?" Kylie asked, flipping pancakes on the griddle. She could see Ava bouncing on her toes in the living room, her new backpack slung over one shoulder.

Ava's eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and nerves. "I think so! But what if I get lost?" she said, glancing toward her baby brother, who was busy chewing on a toy.

Malia knelt down next to Ava, brushing her hair behind her ear. "You'll do great! Just remember to follow your schedule, and if you need help, there are teachers everywhere."

"Plus, you can always call us if you feel overwhelmed," Kylie added, setting a plate of pancakes in front of her. "You're not alone in this."

As they ate breakfast, Kody squealed, reaching out for his sister. "Ava!" he cooed, his small hands waving in excitement.

Ava giggled, her nerves easing as she looked at her brother. "Hey, Kody! I'm going to be your big sister and take care of you!"

Kylie and Malia exchanged smiles, proud of how Ava was stepping into her new role. "You'll be the best big sister," Malia assured her. "And you'll get to teach Kody all about your adventures at school!"

Once breakfast was finished, they all headed out to the car. The drive to school was filled with chatter, Ava sharing her hopes for the day while Kody babbled in the backseat. "What if I meet new friends? Or what if no one likes me?" Ava fretted.

"Just be yourself," Kylie encouraged. "You're kind, funny, and so talented. People will be drawn to you."

As they arrived at the bustling middle school, Ava's excitement mingled with anxiety. The building loomed large, filled with students rushing about. Malia parked the car, and the three of them stepped out.

"Let's take a picture!" Malia suggested, pulling out her phone. Ava beamed, wrapping an arm around Kody, who was giggling at the chaos around him. Kylie joined them, and Malia snapped a photo, capturing the moment.

"Okay, big day ahead!" Kylie said, gently squeezing Ava's shoulder. "Ready to go in?"

With a deep breath, Ava nodded. They walked toward the entrance, the sounds of laughter and chatter growing louder. As they approached the front door, Ava hesitated. "What if I can't find my classes?"

Malia knelt beside her, taking her hands. "Just take it one step at a time. You'll have a full day to get used to it. And remember, we're just a hug away if you need us."

Kylie smiled and added, "And after school, we can all celebrate together! Maybe ice cream?"

Ava's face lit up at the thought. "Ice cream sounds amazing!"

As they stepped inside, Ava took in the vibrant atmosphere filled with students bustling from one class to another. She clutched her schedule tightly, scanning the names of her teachers and classrooms. The reality of middle school was sinking in.

"Here's your first classroom!" Malia pointed out, giving Ava one last hug. "We love you so much. You're going to do great!"

"I love you!" Ava replied, her voice steadying as she walked into the classroom.

Kylie and Malia watched her go, hearts swelling with pride and a touch of nostalgia. "She's growing up so fast," Malia said, wrapping an arm around Kody, who cooed in response.

"She's going to thrive here," Kylie replied, her eyes still on the door. "But it's hard not to worry."

As they left the school, Kody giggled, seemingly oblivious to the bittersweet emotions swirling around them. Malia smiled at him. "You know, Kody, your sister is going to do amazing things."

They spent the day running errands, enjoying quality time together, but the anticipation of Ava's return lingered in the air. Kody took a nap in his stroller while they grabbed groceries and chatted about their hopes for the school year.

Finally, the clock struck three, and they made their way back to the school. The parking lot buzzed with parents waiting for their kids, and excitement filled the air.

As Ava emerged, her face lit up with a huge smile. "Mom! Mom! Mom!" she called, running toward them. Kody squealed, waving his tiny hands as she approached.

Kylie knelt down, arms wide open. "How was it?"

"It was awesome! I met some new friends, and my teachers are really nice! I think I'm going to love it!" Ava exclaimed, her words tumbling out in a rush.

Malia beamed with pride. "We knew you could do it! And now, it's time for our ice cream celebration!"

They headed to their favorite ice cream shop, laughter and chatter filling the car. Ava excitedly shared stories from her day, recounting funny moments and new experiences. Kody cooed along, as if he understood every word.

As they enjoyed their ice cream together, Ava looked at Kody, her heart brimming with love. "I can't wait to tell you all about my school! You'll be so proud of me, little buddy."

Kylie and Malia exchanged knowing smiles, grateful for the joy of family and the adventures that lay ahead. In that moment, they knew that this was just the beginning of a beautiful journey for all of them—one filled with laughter, growth, and cherished memories.