A pride took root in Muji’s chest, hushing the lingering anxiety of the morning. Her plans had been derailed, her control stripped away, and yet, looking at her daughter, she realized that even her most perfect script couldn't have captured a moment this real. ———— ❀
By the time the last muffin crumb had vanished, the world felt steady once more. Matcha stood as the afternoon’s small, golden sun, her yellow skirt a blur of motion as she gripped her awards for "Most Tidy" and "Little Teacher”.