Time passed swiftly, as if the clock itself had been eager to welcome Celeste into this new chapter of her life. The classroom began to fill with soft chatter and the rustle of notebooks being opened, chairs being pulled, and footsteps echoing faintly against the tiled floor. Despite the unfamiliar surroundings, there was a strange sense of comfort settling over her, like the universe had whispered that she was exactly where she needed to be.Just as she adjusted herself in her seat and placed her bag on her lap, a girl approached and took the chair beside her. She was slightly chubby, with kind, smiling eyes and a calm demeanor that made Celeste feel at ease almost instantly. The girl turned to her and offered a warm, friendly smile—the kind that didn’t feel forced or rehearsed.“Hello,” she greeted in a tone that made Celeste instinctively smile back.There was something about the way the girl carried herself that made Celeste feel like she wasn’t so alone after all. It was in the s
Celeste didn’t have much trouble finding her classroom. Everything she needed was clearly printed on the schedule she held, from the building name to the exact room number. It gave her a sense of relief and confidence, especially since this was her first day and she didn’t want to appear lost. The only catch was that the College of Fine Arts Building was located quite a distance from the designated parking area, so the walk wasn’t short. The concrete path she followed stretched out under the morning sun, and with every step, she could feel the weight of her bag and the slight stickiness of sweat forming at the nape of her neck.Still, she figured she might as well see the bright side. If she had to do this kind of walk every day, then maybe it was the universe’s way of giving her a free fitness routine. She imagined herself burning calories just by commuting to class—now *that* was efficient. The idea made her laugh softly under her breath. Maybe this walk wasn’t so bad after all. It
“If you want, hija, I can ask Eva to accompany you to—” Salvador began gently, concern evident in his voice. He wanted to make sure Celeste felt supported, especially since she was heading out alone. His eyes softened as he looked at her, ready to offer any help she might need. After all, he cared deeply for her and just wanted to see her safe and comfortable.But Celeste smiled warmly, cutting him off with a light laugh. “No need, Grandpa—I’m already grown up,” she said confidently, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “Besides, have you forgotten I grew up in America?” Her tone was playful, as if reminding him that she was capable and independent, no longer a child who needed constant supervision. The soft laughter in her voice revealed the affection she felt for Salvador and the ease of their relationship.Salvador chuckled quietly to himself, shaking his head in agreement. He admired her independence and maturity, but the old man’s heart was still full of protective love. Leaning dow
In the dining room, Celeste was momentarily overwhelmed by the sight that greeted her—a lavish and well-prepared lunch spread that looked like it could feed a small gathering rather than just a single person. The table was adorned with steaming dishes, perfectly arranged servings of various viands, fresh fruits, and an array of desserts that seemed more fitting for a festive celebration than an ordinary midday meal. It was clear that a great deal of care, thought, and perhaps even extravagance had gone into its preparation. Yet instead of blurting out what she felt or commenting on the obvious excess, she chose silence. It wasn't out of indifference, but out of a quiet appreciation she couldn't quite articulate. The gesture, though unspoken, wrapped around her like a warm blanket—comforting, even touching.As her gaze swept across the table, she couldn't help but imagine the hands that had worked behind the scenes to make the spread possible. Perhaps her grandfather had ordered it sp
Celeste watched Eva as she quietly stepped out of the room, her eyes following every movement until Eva disappeared from sight. A gentle sigh escaped her lips, a mixture of relief and anticipation swirling within her. She sank down onto the edge of the bed, the soft wood beneath her fingers grounding her thoughts. With a small, almost shy smile, she reached out and lightly touched the post of the four-poster bed.“You’re really beautiful,” she murmured softly, her voice filled with wonder, as if speaking to the room itself or perhaps to the dreams she was beginning to nurture.After a moment, Celeste rose to her feet and moved toward the door that opened onto the veranda. She pushed it wide open, welcoming the warm, fragrant breeze that immediately greeted her. The wind felt like a gentle caress on her skin, wrapping around her like a comforting embrace. She closed her eyes briefly, savoring the delicate scents carried by the air—the faint aroma of blooming flowers, the salty hint of
“CELESTE! Welcome home, hija!” her Grandpa Salvador greeted her enthusiastically. Celeste offered a shy but sweet smile in return, her heart swelling with a quiet mixture of relief and affection. The moment felt surreal—stepping out of the van after a long journey and immediately being enveloped in the warm familiarity of family. As they passed through the grand gates of the mansion, her eyes landed on the elderly man who had been waiting there just for her. Dressed neatly and standing tall despite his age, Salvador radiated a kind of joy that softened the edges of her weariness. His face lit up the instant he saw her, his open arms and eager smile making it clear just how much he had missed her.“Grandpa,” was all she could manage to say, her voice barely above a whisper, thick with emotion. Without hesitation, she rushed into his embrace, wrapping her arms tightly around him. There was something grounding in the way he held her back—firm and full of unspoken love. For a few seco