Fire

"Come with us! Princess Jasmine!!" I hear Arielle chirping from behind like an animated bird.

The next thing I know, I feel her collide against my back nearly toppling me down the stairs. I let out a shriek and grasp the banister railing.

"Arielle!" Rachael's horrified expression replaces with solid fury as she reaches out for her and me. "Get down from her at once!"

"No!" Arielle giggles, struggling she winds her arms around my neck from the back. This gesture almost pulls apart my hijab.

"It's fine" I laugh sheepishly as I try to secure my hijab in place with one hand while I grasp Arielle's tiny arms with the other. "She can piggyback ride me, I don't mind."

"See! So leave me alone!" Arielle snaps at her mother and she tightens her arms around my neck.

Rachael narrows her eyes at her daughter. "Watch your mouth young lady!"

"No!"

I feel mildly awkward with this display between the two of them so I admonish Arielle gently "Princess Arielle, is that how princesses talk to their mommie