Surprisingly Royal

👸Chapter 7 : Time with my neighbour

Ciara's POV

I woke up pretty early today ,probably because I slept like a baby yesterday and clocked in way more hours than usual.

First thing I did? Tea.

Lately, I've gotten really attached to the idea of having a warm cup of tea the moment I get out of bed. It helps switch on my brain, you know? Gets me into gear for whatever the day has in store.

So, I make my tea and settle quietly at the dining table, sipping and savoring each hot, cozy mouthful. A few moments later, Mum walks into the kitchen, already dressed and looking like she's got somewhere to be.

"Heading out?" I ask between sips.

"Yeah, I need to get to the palace as soon as possible . They're short on hands , there's just so much going on today," she says while rustling around the kitchen, putting something together.

"What about the dinner with our neighbors tonight?" I ask, a little concerned.

"I hope it still happens," she says, joining me at the table. "I just have to get everything at the palace done in time so I can prepare the meals I've planned."

"Hmm... so I'll be home all alone?"

"Well, I could ask the neighbor's daughter to come over and keep you company for a while," she offers.

I shake my head slightly. "I think I'll pass, Mum. I'll be seeing her tonight anyway, so no rush. I'll just finish my chores and read the storybook I was halfway through."

"As you wish," she says. "But remember, you're still grounded. Don't even think about stepping outside because I will find out. If you behave well during dinner, I'll consider reducing the punishment to just four more days."

"Wait ,really?!" I practically jump in excitement and kiss her on the cheek. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"

"Alright, alright, don't celebrate just yet," she warns. "If you mess up, I might even extend the punishment."

"Don't worry, Mum. I'll be on my absolute best behavior . no way am I ruining my image in front of the neighbors."

She gives me a playful side-eye. "Good... Now I really need to head out. Don't make a mess, and do your chores like you said. There's plenty of food in the house, but don't waste anything."

"Everything will be fine. You don't need to worry."

"I trust you," she says with a smile. "And make sure you lock the door behind me just to be safe."

"Yes, Mum," I say, nudging her toward the door. "If you keep talking, you're definitely going to be late."

"Okay, okay  bye, sweetheart! Take care and don't get into any trouble. Love you!" she calls, kissing my cheek before disappearing outside.

I shut the door behind her and lock it.

Then I just stand there for a moment, soaking it in.

The house is mine for the whole day.

I spin around like a ballerina, grinning to myself. I can play my music loud, dance like no one's watching (because no one is), and for the first time, Mum actually trusts me to cook in her kitchen without her hovering around. This is awesome.

First things first ,I head to the kitchen, wash our teacups, and grab my toiletries before heading to the bathroom.

Once I'm fresh and clean, I come back to the kitchen to make some breakfast since Mum had to leave early. I sit at the dining table for a while, thinking of something simple to make. Nothing fancy and I don't exactly have the magic cooking touch.