A week later:
Nia hummed softly as she moved around the living room, her hands busy but her mind focused on a singular purpose. It was the first time she had the chance to orchestrate something this special for Zack—something just for him, a moment away from the chaos that surrounded their lives. She carefully placed the last string of twinkling lights along the mantle, stepping back to admire the soft glow that filled the room. The space felt warm, intimate, and alive with the promise of what was to come.
Pixel padded silently around her feet, brushing against her legs as he wandered. He had always been a quiet observer, his green eyes filled with a calm understanding that seemed to see right through her. He chirped softly, his way of acknowledging her efforts.
"You think he'll like it?" Nia asked, bending down to stroke Pixel's soft fur as he circled her ankles.
