Chapter 463

Morning light filtered through the curtains as Stella Valentine stood before her closet selecting an outfit. She chose a soft blue sundress—casual yet polished.

"Mommy!" Luna Roland burst in clutching a hair accessory box, her little face scrunched in distress. "I can't decide between the bunny and strawberry clips!"

Stella knelt, smoothing her daughter's silky hair. "Sweetheart, we can wear one on each side. That way both friends can come with you."

Celeste Roland dashed in barefoot, waving a storybook. "Mommy, I want this princess hairstyle!"

"Of course." Stella took the book, her fingers weaving deftly through Celeste's hair. The mirror reflected their matching smiles.

Ethan Valentine stood by the door adjusting his backpack. He carefully arranged his sisters' water bottles and counted their snacks.

"Mom, I packed band-aids and wet wipes." His serious expression mirrored an adult's responsibility.

Warmth flooded Stella's chest as she ruffled his hair. "You're amazing, Ethan. My dependable little man."

Grace Laurent entered with breakfast, admiring the children's excitement. "My darlings look absolutely radiant today!"

"Grandma!" The girls nearly toppled her milk glass in their enthusiastic hug.

Stella rescued the tray. "Mom, you should rest. Let me handle this."

Grace waved her off. "Nonsense. Are you sure you can manage all three alone? I could come—"

"They're perfect angels." Stella distributed plates with practiced ease.

At the doorway, Grace called after them. "Take lots of pictures!"

"We will!" Three voices chorused back.

Colorful banners fluttered outside the kindergarten to cheerful music. Celeste tugged Stella's hand. "Look, Mommy! Balloons!"

Luna pointed at the rainbow archway. "It's like a fairy tale castle!"

At the check-in table, a young teacher beamed. "Welcome to Family Day!"

She handed them a vibrant card. "This is your activity passport with a map. Earn stamps and prizes at each station!"

As Stella thanked her, the teacher glanced around. "Is Dad parking the car? Some games require both parents."

The air stilled. Celeste fidgeted with her skirt hem. Luna's eyes grew shiny.

Ethan stepped forward. "I'll be the dad! I'm tall enough."

The teacher gave Stella an apologetic look. "Certain activities do need an adult male participant..."

Stella squeezed their small hands, her voice steady. "We'll enjoy the other wonderful games together."

Kneeling to their level, she met each child's gaze. "What matters most is our special day as a family, right?"

Ethan nodded fiercely, distributing candy from his backpack. "We'll collect every stamp we can!"

Watching their renewed excitement, Stella's heart ached and swelled simultaneously. She inhaled deeply, clasping their hands.

"Adventure awaits!"