Carnival

In Linhaven National Hospital's bathroom, Michelle stands before the sink, wearing her signature white turtleneck t-shirt and light blue slim jeans, paired with white converse shoes. The hospital's fluorescent lights cast a cold glow over the sterile space, highlighting her tear-streaked face and reddened eyes. Her curly ginger hair is slightly disheveled, a testament to the worry and distress that grips her heart.

As she grips the edges of the sink, her trembling hands reveal the depth of her anxiety and fear. The sound of running water from the faucet blends with the soft sobs that escape her lips, as she tries to wipe away the tears that refuse to cease. Her emotions are raw and palpable, showing just how deeply she is affected by the sudden turn of events.

The worry etched across her face is evident as she recalls the moment her mother collapsed after drinking water from the new water purifier. The incident has left her feeling helpless and terrified for her mother's well-being. Michelle's mind is consumed by thoughts of what could have caused this, and her heart aches at the possibility of losing her beloved mother.

Her concern for her mother's condition is overwhelming, and she struggles to find comfort in such uncertain circumstances. In this private moment of vulnerability, Michelle's strength wavers, as she grapples with the fear of the unknown. The weight of the situation is immense, and she feels the responsibility of being the support her mother needs during this crisis.

Michelle stands before the mirror above the sink, her red eyes meeting her own reflection. In a determined gesture, she slaps both of her cheeks gently, as if trying to snap herself out of the emotional turmoil. She knows she needs to gather herself and remain strong for her family during this difficult time.

"Get it together, Michelle," she mutters softly, trying to give herself the pep talk she desperately needs. "Everything will be okay. You can do this."

She takes a deep, shaky breath, and as she exhales, a sigh of relief escapes her lips. Michelle reaches up to tidy her white turtleneck t-shirt, smoothing out the wrinkles caused by her grip during moments of distress. The act serves as a metaphor for her attempt to regain control and composure amidst the chaos.

With renewed determination, she gathers the scattered items sprawled across the counter and neatly places them back into her small purse. As she does so, her mind remains occupied with thoughts of her mother, Erica Wallis, and her current condition. The news that her mother's condition has been stabilized brings both relief and concern. While it's a positive sign, the uncertainty of the situation weighs heavily on her mind.

Wanting to keep her husband, James, informed, Michelle takes her phone out of her purse. Her fingers swiftly type a text message to him, relaying the latest update about her mother's condition:

"Hey James, just wanted to let you know that Mom's condition has been stabilized. She's not getting better, but at least she's not getting worse either. We're still waiting for more news. Love you."

Sending the text provides Michelle with a brief moment of solace, knowing that her husband is aware of the situation and that she's not navigating this difficult time alone.

After putting her phone back into her purse, Michelle takes a deep breath to steady herself. With her emotions somewhat under control, she walks up to the bathroom door. As she approaches, the door slides open automatically, a modern convenience of the hospital. Stepping outside, she turns right and starts walking down the hallway.

As she walks, Michelle continues to practice her breathing exercises, a coping mechanism she has relied on since her youth. Inhale, hold, exhale—she repeats the pattern silently in her mind, finding comfort in the familiarity of the routine. The rhythmic breathing helps her remain composed and focused, even in the midst of uncertainty and worry.

However, as she reaches the corner of the hallway, she hears two feminine voices engaged in conversation from around the bend. Michelle's heart jumps a little in response to the sudden noise, a reminder of how on edge she is. But just as quickly, she reminds herself to stay calm and composed, drawing strength from her breathing exercises.

The nurses around the corner notice her approaching, and they greet her with warm smiles and nods of acknowledgment. "Hello," they say in unison, and Michelle replies with a polite nod and a smile of her own. Interacting with the nurses provides a sense of reassurance and normalcy amidst the stressful atmosphere of the hospital.

Feeling the need to keep moving, Michelle continues down the hallway, picking up her pace slightly. With each step, she focuses on putting one foot in front of the other, channeling her energy into a determined stride.

As Michelle reaches the end of the hallway, her eyes fixate on the door marked with the number 503. This is her mother's hospital room. She takes a deep breath, her hand trembling slightly as she reaches for the door handle. With a gentle push, she opens the door and steps inside.

The room is illuminated by the soft glow of the overhead lights. The hospital bed sits against one wall, and on it lies Michelle's mother, Erica Wallis, unconscious and surrounded by medical equipment that monitors her condition. The sight tugs at Michelle's heart, a mix of worry and affection washing over her.

The bedside table holds a fruit basket, a thoughtful gesture from a well-wisher, and it brings a small glimmer of warmth to the otherwise clinical environment. There's a chair placed nearby, suggesting that Michelle has spent considerable time by her mother's side, offering support and comfort during her hospital stay.

A coffee table stands against the wall, likely used for various items or for moments of respite when Michelle takes a break from sitting in the chair. Large windows with curtains provide a view outside, offering a glimpse of the world beyond the hospital walls, a reminder that life continues even amidst uncertainty.

Michelle walks closer to the hospital bed, her footsteps barely making a sound on the sanitized floor. She gently takes her mother's hand in hers, feeling the warmth that emanates from it. The concern in her eyes deepens as she gazes at her mother's peaceful, yet fragile, form.

After taking a moment to compose herself, Michelle walks over to the fruit basket placed on the bedside table. She reaches in and selects an apple, a simple act that offers her a momentary distraction from the overwhelming situation. With the apple in hand, she returns to the chair by her mother's bedside and starts to peel it slowly, the sound of the peeling providing a soothing rhythm in the room.

As she begins to peel the apple, a knock interrupts the calm atmosphere. Michelle calls out in response, giving permission for the person outside to enter. The door opens, and a tall man with a white coat, long brown hair, and a clipboard walks into the room. It's Doctor Miguel, the physician designated to monitor the health of Erica Wallis.

"Hello, Doctor Miguel," Michelle says with a warm smile, acknowledging his presence. "I'm Michelle Dawkins, Erica Wallis's oldest daughter."

Doctor Miguel reciprocates the smile and nods politely. "Nice to meet you, Michelle. I'll be overseeing your mother's care during her time here."

He then proceeds to explain the initial findings to Michelle. Unknown bacteria have been detected in Erica's intestines, likely stemming from the water she drank before collapsing. The doctor assures her that they are conducting tests to identify the specific bacteria and determine the best course of treatment. However, he adds that it may take some time before they have conclusive results.

Michelle listens attentively to Doctor Miguel's explanation, absorbing the information while remaining hopeful for her mother's recovery. She trusts in the medical team's expertise and knows they are doing everything they can to help Erica.

Concern crosses her face as she considers the timing of the results. Michelle realizes her younger sister's arrival is expected in approximately 30 minutes. Wanting to be there for both her mother and her sister, she inquires about when the results might be available.

"Do you have any estimate of when the test results might come back, Doctor Miguel?" Michelle asks with a touch of worry. "My sister will be arriving at my house soon, and I want to be able to update her as well."

Doctor Miguel takes a moment to review the schedule. "I understand the importance of keeping your family informed.

"I'm sorry, Michelle," he says sincerely, "we're doing our best, but the constant influx of patients has stretched our resources thin. It may take some time before we can get the results."

Michelle nods understandingly, recognizing the challenging circumstances the hospital is facing. She appreciates the doctor's honesty and knows that he and his team are working tirelessly to provide the best care possible for all their patients, including her mother.

"Thank you, Doctor Miguel," Michelle replies, her gratitude evident in her voice. "I'll be leaving in a few minutes, and I just wanted to ask that you don't give out Erica's hospital room number without her consent. I want to ensure her privacy during this time."

Doctor Miguel narrows his eyes for a moment, as if considering her request, before quickly widening them again. He nods in agreement, understanding the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality and respecting their wishes.

"Of course, Michelle," he assures her. "I understand the need for privacy, especially in such a sensitive situation. I'll inform the front desk not to share the room number unless they receive confirmation from you directly."

Michelle offers a grateful smile, feeling reassured that her mother's privacy will be protected. She knows that having control over who has access to her mother's room is essential during this critical time.

"Thank you, Doctor Miguel," Michelle says again, her appreciation evident in her tone. She watches as he leaves the room, his white coat blending with the clinical surroundings. As he walks away, she feels a sense of gratitude for the dedicated medical professionals like him who are working tirelessly to care for others.

As Michelle sets the fully peeled apple down on the bedside table, she lets out a heavy sigh. Her heart is heavy with worry and emotions, and she turns her attention back to her unconscious mother's pale face. With a trembling hand, she caresses Erica's cheek, the touch filled with love and concern.

Tears begin to fall down Michelle's cheeks as she leans in closer to her mother's ear, her voice soft and soothing. "Everything will be alright, Mom," she whispers, hoping that somehow her words will reach her unconscious mother and offer comfort in this difficult moment.

As she wipes away her tears, Michelle composes herself, determined to be strong for her mother. She picks up the peeled apple from the bedside table and walks over to the garbage can to dispose of it. The simple act of discarding the apple serves as a metaphor for her desire to let go of her own worries and fears, focusing instead on being present and supportive for her mother.

Walking back to the bedside table, Michelle picks up her car keys. It's time for her to leave the hospital, even though her heart is torn between staying with her mother and taking care of herself. She knows she needs to gather her strength to be able to support her mother in the days to come.

Before opening the hospital room door, Michelle whispers to herself with a determined voice, "Everything will be okay." It's a mantra she holds onto, seeking comfort and reassurance even in the midst of uncertainty.

She turns the door handle, and as she steps outside, she gently closes the door behind her. The hospital corridor stretches before her, filled with people rushing to and fro, attending to their duties. Michelle takes a deep breath, trying to find a sense of calm amidst the chaos.

As she walks down the hallway, her footsteps are measured and deliberate. The fluorescent lights overhead cast a clinical glow, adding to the sense of detachment that often comes with being in a hospital. She passes by other patients' rooms, each one holding its own story of hope and healing, reminding her of the larger community of individuals facing their own challenges.

Michelle's mind is still filled with thoughts of her unconscious mother and the uncertainty surrounding her condition. But she holds onto the belief that everything will eventually be alright, trusting in the medical team's expertise and the strength of her family's love and support.

Finally, she reaches the elevator bank, where she presses the button to call for a lift. The elevator doors open, and she steps inside, joining other people traveling to different floors of the hospital. The short journey in the elevator gives her a moment of respite, away from the worries within the hospital room.

Once the elevator doors open again, Michelle emerges on the ground floor. Her steps are slow and measured as she makes her way towards the hospital's parking lot, her mind still preoccupied with thoughts of her mother.

As Michelle steps out of the hospital, she finds herself in a bustling environment with people moving hurriedly in different directions. Her steps are slow and measured as she makes her way towards the hospital's parking lot, her mind still preoccupied with thoughts of her mother.

The parking lot comes into view, and it is a sight to behold. It's filled with a wide array of vehicles, ranging from ordinary four-wheeled cars to futuristic hover cars. Among them, Michelle's car stands out with its vibrant red color, a sleek and stylish hover car that reflects her family's status.

Hover cars are a luxury only afforded by the wealthy, and Michelle's family is no exception. As she approaches her car, she can't help but feel a mix of gratitude and guilt for the privilege she enjoys. Her parents' success and hard work have provided them with such luxuries, but it also comes with the responsibility to use their wealth wisely and help others when possible.

The red hover car stands there, almost like a symbol of the life she leads—a life of privilege and opportunities. As she unlocks the car and gets inside, the interior exudes comfort and modern technology. However, these material possessions feel less important to her now, knowing that her mother's well-being is what truly matters.

Starting the car, she takes a deep breath, steeling herself to face the uncertainties that lie ahead. Michelle knows she will need to juggle her responsibilities, including being there for her mother while also taking care of herself and her family.

As the hover car smoothly glides above the ground, she navigates through the parking lot and merges with the other vehicles on the road. The futuristic cityscape around her reminds her of the advancements and privileges she has enjoyed.

The journey home feels both long and short. Her thoughts keep drifting back to her mother, but she tries to find moments of solace in the passing scenery and the rhythm of the road. Finally, she arrives at her destination and parks her car.

With a deep exhale, Michelle switches off the engine and sits for a moment in the quiet of her car. She knows that the road ahead will be challenging, but she is determined to face it with strength and love, just as she has always done.

Michelle's car glides smoothly into the parking area, and as she steps out, she spots her sister, Opal, and Opal's husband, Ian, engaged in conversation with James. A mix of relief and warmth washes over her as she sees her family together in this crucial moment.

With a soft smile on her face, Michelle walks over to them, her steps quickening with each passing moment. As she approaches, Opal turns her attention towards Michelle, and their eyes meet with a shared understanding of the emotions they are both experiencing.

Without hesitation, Michelle opens her arms and embraces her sister tightly. Opal reciprocates the hug with equal fervor, and they hold each other close, seeking comfort in the embrace of their sibling. The embrace lingers for a few precious moments, a silent reassurance of the unbreakable bond between them.

Finally pulling back, Opal looks at Michelle with concern in her turquoise-blue hooded eyes. "How's Mom doing?" she asks, her voice filled with genuine worry.

Michelle takes a deep breath, her eyes reflecting the rollercoaster of emotions she has been through since visiting their mother at the hospital. "It's been tough," she admits, her voice tinged with a mix of sadness and hope. "The doctors are running tests, but we won't know anything definitive until tomorrow."

Opal nods, her freckled face expressing understanding and support. "We're here for you, Michelle," she says, placing a reassuring hand on Michelle's shoulder. "Whatever happens, we'll face it together."

Ian, ever the supportive husband, also offers his comforting presence. "We're with you every step of the way," he adds, his soft wavy brown hair slightly tousled by the breeze.

Michelle smiles gratefully at both of them, knowing she can lean on their strength during this challenging time. "Thank you," she says sincerely. "It means the world to me to have you both here."

Michelle and Opal stand outside, engaging in a heartfelt conversation as the sun begins to set. Michelle looks around, realizing that she hasn't seen her niece and nephew, Elio and Eleanor, for a while. Curiosity getting the better of her, she gently asks, "Opal, where are Elio and Eleanor? I haven't seen them in a bit."

Opal smiles warmly, pointing towards Michelle's house just a few steps away. "They're already inside, chatting with Daisy and Luke," she replies. "I'm sure they're having a great time catching up."

A sense of relief washes over Michelle as she realizes her children are enjoying each other's company with their cousins. "That's wonderful," she says with a smile. "They always have so much fun together."

Realizing that everyone is now gathered, Michelle suggests, "Since everyone's already inside, why don't we join them? Ian, James, you and I should head inside too. It'll be nice to spend some time together as a family."

Opal nods in agreement, and the two sisters, along with their husbands, head inside the welcoming atmosphere of Michelle's home. As they step through the threshold, the sound of laughter and chatter greets them, filling the air with warmth and happiness.

Inside, Elio and Eleanor are enthusiastically sharing stories with Daisy and Luke, their animated expressions reflecting the joy of being reunited with their cousins. The kids are engrossed in their own world, bonding over shared experiences and adventures.

As everyone gathers in the cozy living room, Michelle glances around at the smiling faces of her family members. Feeling the pleasant buzz of togetherness in the air, she suggests, "Hey, why don't we play some board games to pass the time?"

James nods in agreement, fully supportive of the idea. He gets up from his spot on the couch, heading towards the shelves where they keep their collection of board games. Eleanor, who is sitting on the carpet in front of the TV with her younger brother, Elio, looks up at her aunt, Michelle, with curiosity sparkling in her light-green hooded eyes.

"What kind of board games are we going to play?" Eleanor asks, her excitement evident in her voice.

Michelle kneels down to be at eye level with the group of children, including Daisy and Luke, who have joined them on the carpet. "We're going to play Round-A-Bout," she announces with a smile.

Eleanor's eyes light up with excitement, and she can't contain her enthusiasm. She starts shaking Elio's shoulders, urging him to join in on the excitement. "Round-A-Bout is so much fun, Elio! You'll love it!" she exclaims.

Elio, with a hint of curiosity, nods and smiles at his older sister's excitement. He's always trusted her taste in games, knowing she has a knack for finding the most enjoyable ones.

As James returns with a handful of board games, including Round-A-Bout, the kids cheer in anticipation. Michelle leads the way, setting up the game on the coffee table, making sure everyone has a good view of the colorful and interconnected map.

Soon, the living room is filled with laughter, friendly banter, and the sound of board pieces moving across the map. The children immerse themselves in the game, forming alliances, making strategic moves, and engaging in friendly competition.

Eleanor's excitement is contagious, and her energy sets the tone for a lively and memorable game session. As they navigate the map and encounter various challenges and surprises, the bond among the family members strengthens, creating lasting memories of a fun-filled evening spent together.

As the night draws nearer, the excitement of the board game Round-A-Bout begins to wane, and the fatigue sets in. Elio, who has been engaged in the game and conversations, yawns, feeling the effects of the long day catching up to him. He stretches his arms and admits, "I'm a little tired, guys. I think I want to sleep."

Sitting next to Elio, Eleanor pouts playfully, protesting, "But I'm not tired yet! Can't we stay up a little longer?"

Michelle, noticing the tired expressions on her children's faces, realizes that the time has slipped away while they were all focused on the game and the company. She turns to James and asks, "Did you prepare the guest rooms before Opal and her family arrived?"

James nods reassuringly and responds, "Yes, everything is ready for them. I made sure the rooms are clean and comfortable."

With a hint of concern for her sister and her family, Michelle suggests, "It's almost midnight, and we've all had a long day. We should get some sleep so we can be well-rested for tomorrow's activities. James, could you please show Opal and her family to their rooms?"

"Of course," James replies, getting up from his seat. He motions for Opal and her family to follow him, leading them to the guest rooms where they can rest and recharge for the night.

As they bid goodnight to Opal and her family, Michelle turns her attention back to Eleanor and Elio. "Alright, you two, it's time to get some rest too," she says gently.

Eleanor gives a mock-sigh, but her excitement wanes as sleepiness begins to take over. "Fine, but can we play again tomorrow?" she asks with a hopeful glimmer in her eyes.

Michelle smiles warmly, tucking a strand of Eleanor's medium-long curly ginger hair behind her ear. "Of course, sweetie. We'll have more fun tomorrow," she promises.

As Eleanor follows James upstairs to the guest rooms, Daisy seizes the opportunity to share some exciting news with her younger cousin and brother. "Hey, guys, guess what? There's a carnival in town tomorrow! We should totally go if you're interested," she says, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Eleanor's face lights up with excitement, and she responds, "Oh, that sounds like so much fun! Count me in!"

Elio, on the other hand, seems a bit more hesitant. "I'm not sure," he says thoughtfully, "but I'll think about it."

As they reach the top of the stairs, James turns to Daisy and gently reminds her, "It's getting late, Daisy. You should head to bed."

Daisy nods in acknowledgment. "Okay, I'll put away the board game first, and then I'll head to bed," she says.

James hums in acceptance and continues leading Opal and her family to the guest bedrooms. Daisy quickly gathers the board pieces and box, making sure everything is in its place before retiring for the night.

As James and Opal's family has already gone upstairs, Daisy takes the initiative to clean up the board game Round-A-Bout. She carefully gathers the colorful board pieces, ensuring none are left behind. Daisy neatly arranges the pieces back in the box and places it where James had taken it from.

Meanwhile, Michelle stands up from the carpet, gently cradling her sleeping son, Luke, in her arms. He had dozed off during the excitement of their fourth game of Round-A-Bout. With a soft smile, Michelle thanks Daisy for putting away the board game, appreciating her helpfulness.

"Thanks, Daisy. You're a sweetheart," Michelle says warmly. "Come upstairs quickly after you're done cleaning up. I'll tuck Luke into bed, and then we can all get some rest."

Daisy nods understandingly. "Sure, I'll be right there," she replies. "Take your time, I know you have to make sure Luke is comfortable."

After tidying up the last bits of the game, Daisy puts the pillows, which were used as cushions during the game, back onto the sofa. With everything in order, she heads upstairs to join the rest of the family for bedtime.

Upstairs, the house is quiet, and everyone has settled into their respective rooms. Daisy joins her family, and they all get ready for a well-deserved night of rest. As the night grows still, they each drift off to sleep.

-----------

As the morning sun gently filters through the green grommet curtains, Elio begins to stir from his slumber. The cooler Linhaven morning is a bit different from what he is used to in Baycoast, making him feel a bit groggy as he opens his eyes. Elio glances over and sees that his cousin Eleanor is still sound asleep, her curly ginger hair sprawled across the pillow.

Deciding to get up first, Elio carefully slips out of bed, trying not to disturb Eleanor's peaceful sleep. He quietly makes his way to the connected guest room's bathroom to freshen up. The cool water of the shower helps him shake off the remnants of sleep, and he feels more awake as he steps out, water droplets glistening on his skin.

Elio takes a moment to towel dry his short curly brown hair before changing into a comfortable pair of clothes he brought with him. He wanted to be prepared for the different climate in Linhaven compared to Baycoast, and it seems like his choice was a good one.

As he steps out of the bathroom, he finds Eleanor awake, her light-green hooded eyes looking at him with a warm smile. "Good morning, sleepyhead," Elio greets her playfully.

Eleanor yawns and stretches, still laying down in bed. "Morning, Elio," she replies with a hint of morning grogginess in her voice. "Did you sleep well?"

"Yeah, not bad," Elio answers, running a hand through his damp hair. "The shower helped wake me up. You should try it too."

Eleanor chuckles, swinging her legs on the bed. "I will, but I'm going to take my time waking up," she says with a wink.

Elio rolls his eyes in good-natured exasperation as Eleanor announces that she's going to take her time getting out of bed. He knows his sister well and understands that she can be a bit of a slow riser, especially in the mornings.

"Hurry up, Eleanor," he says in his usual brief and straightforward manner. "Don't be lazy."

Eleanor playfully waves a hand in the air as if dismissing his comment, her face sinking back into the pillow. Her voice is muffled as she mumbles a reply, not quite ready to fully wake up just yet.

Elio quietly makes his way downstairs, his steps light as he moves through the house. As he enters the living room, he spots his younger cousin, Luke, sitting on the couch. He walks over and greets him with a small smile.

"Hey, Luke. Are you already awake?" Elio asks, his voice soft and warm.

Luke nods, looking up at his older cousin with sleepy eyes. "Yeah, I woke up a little while ago," he replies.

Curious about the whereabouts of his aunt and uncle, Elio asks, "Where are your parents?"

Luke points towards the kitchen with a small grin. "My mom is in the kitchen making breakfast. And my dad already left for work," he says.

Elio nods in understanding. "Thanks," he replies before heading towards the kitchen to find his aunt Michelle.

As he enters the kitchen, he's greeted by the inviting aroma of breakfast being prepared. Michelle stands at the stove, focused on flipping pancakes with a warm smile on her face. Elio approaches her, and she looks up, acknowledging his presence.

"Good morning, Elio," Michelle says, setting down the spatula. "Sleep well?"

Elio nods, returning her smile. "Yeah, it was nice. How about you?"

Michelle chuckles softly. "As well as I can with Luke waking up early," she jokes, playfully poking fun at her son.

Elio glances at Luke, who smiles sheepishly, clearly enjoying the attention. "I see," Elio says with a grin. "Well, the breakfast smells amazing."

Michelle beams with pride. "Thank you! I hope you all enjoy it. Feel free to grab a seat at the table."

As Elio pulls out his phone and starts texting, Michelle skillfully finishes making the last batch of pancakes, filling the kitchen with a delightful aroma. Meanwhile, Luke, who has settled on the right side of Elio, is deeply engrossed in his drawing, adding colorful strokes to the picture book he holds, adding his own artistic touch to the pages.

Just then, Daisy makes her appearance, gracefully descending the stairs with a spring in her step. She heads straight for Elio's left side, where she playfully plops down on a chair next to him. "Morning, Elio," she greets with a cheerful smile.

Elio looks up from his phone and nods in acknowledgment. "Morning, Daisy," he replies, mirroring her warm greeting.

Daisy, always full of energy and enthusiasm, looks around the kitchen and notices Eleanor's absence. "Hey, where's Eleanor?" she asks, her curiosity piqued.

Elio points toward the staircase leading upstairs, a playful glint in his eyes. "The devil has been summoned out of its den," he jests, a hint of humor in his voice.

Just as he finishes speaking, Eleanor makes her grand entrance, descending the stairs with a grin on her face. "Speak of the devil," Daisy remarks, giggling at the timing.

Eleanor rolls her eyes playfully at the comment but joins in on the laughter. "Good morning, everyone," she says, fully embracing the cheerful atmosphere.

As Eleanor takes a seat in front of Daisy, she leaves two empty seats on either side of her, saving them for her parents when they come downstairs. The table is set with two more empty chairs at the ends, waiting to be occupied by the rest of the family.

Michelle, with a warm and motherly smile, brings over the plates of pancakes and places them on the table. Each plate contains two fluffy and delicious pancakes, beautifully arranged with a vibrant floral pattern on the plates. These plates add a touch of elegance and charm to the breakfast setting, making the meal even more inviting.

Luke's plate, however, only has one pancake, much to his playful disappointment. He looks up at Michelle with an adorable pout, his eyes fixed on the single pancake before him. Michelle smiles lovingly at her youngest, understanding his preference for quantity.

"Don't worry, Luke," she reassures him. "You can have another one if you're still hungry after finishing the first pancake."

Luke nods, satisfied with the promise of an extra treat if he so desires. His eyes light up when he notices that his pancake is served on his favorite plate, adorned with a cute mouse cartoon character. He grins and starts eating with enthusiasm, enjoying the taste of the fluffy pancake.

With all the plates placed on the table, each featuring beautiful and vibrant floral patterns, the breakfast looks like a delightful feast. The family gathers around the table, taking their seats with a sense of togetherness and contentment.

Michelle settles near Daisy and Eleanor on the left edge of the dining table, embracing the warmth of her family's presence. As they begin to savor the delicious breakfast, the dining area fills with joy and love, creating lasting memories that will linger in their hearts for a lifetime.

As the breakfast dishes are cleared away and the dining table tidied, Daisy seizes the moment to inquire about their plans for the day. With a playful glint in her eyes, she turns to her younger cousins Eleanor and Elio, asking if they've made up their minds about joining her at the carnival.

Eleanor, ever the expressive one, reminds Daisy that she had already given her answer yesterday. Daisy playfully nudges Eleanor's shoulder, a mischievous grin dancing on her lips. "Come on, Ellie, you know plans can change overnight!" she teases, causing Eleanor to roll her eyes with a playful smile.

Eleanor lets out a soft laugh and concedes, "Okay, okay, you got me there. I'm in, let's go to the carnival!" Her eyes twinkle with excitement as she envisions the rides, games, and sweet treats that await them at the carnival.

Turning her attention to Elio, Daisy waits for his decision. Elio's thoughtful expression indicates that he's considering the offer carefully. With only a few weeks left in Linhaven before his departure for Eastside Academy, he wants to make the most of his time with family and friends.

After a brief moment of contemplation, Elio smiles and nods, "I'm in too. It sounds like a fun way to spend the day before I have to leave." While Elio may be introverted, he values quality time with loved ones, especially knowing that he won't be able to enjoy such moments as frequently once he begins his studies at Eastside Academy.

Daisy's eyes light up with delight as she claps her hands together. "Perfect! It's going to be a blast, I promise!" she exclaims, her enthusiasm infectious.

As the excited trio of Daisy, Eleanor, and Elio prepare to head out for the carnival, Michelle stands in the kitchen, keeping a watchful eye on them. She knows how much her children cherish these moments together, and while she wants them to enjoy themselves, she also wants to ensure their safety.

"Hey, guys!" Michelle calls out, raising her voice so they can hear her from the kitchen. "Remember to have a fantastic time at the carnival, but please make sure you're back before midnight, okay?"

"DON'T WORRY, MOM!" Daisy calls back with a confident grin, her voice echoing through the hallway. She turns to her cousins, Elio and Eleanor, and adds, "We'll be back before midnight, promise!"

Eleanor nods in agreement, her enthusiasm matching Daisy's. "Yeah, Auntie, we won't stay out too late. We'll make sure to be back in time," she assures, her tone assuring Michelle that they'll be responsible.

Elio, ever the composed and thoughtful one, chimes in, "You can count on us to stick to our word, Aunt Michelle. We'll be back before midnight." His words carry a sense of reliability, comforting Michelle that she can trust them to keep their commitment.

With her cousins by her side, Daisy looks back at her mother with a beaming smile, "We'll have a blast, and we'll be back in time for sure. You can count on that!" she reaffirms, her eagerness reflecting in her eyes.

Michelle smiles, reassured by their words and knowing that she can trust her children and their cousins to be responsible. "Alright then, have fun and be safe," she says, her love and concern evident in her voice.

As the trio heads out the door, Michelle watches them with a mix of pride and fondness. She knows that they'll have a wonderful time at the carnival, and she's grateful for the bond they share as family.

Outside the house Daisy tells Eleanor and Elio that she already prepared a ride in advance. Eleanor looks at Daisy with curiosity, eager to know what kind of ride she has prepared for their trip to the carnival. "So, what ride did you manage to arrange?" she asks, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Daisy grins mischievously, building up the anticipation. "We're going with a group of my close friends!" she announces, her excitement evident in her voice. "It's going to be so much fun!"

Elio, ever the pragmatic one, raises a concern about the seating arrangement. "How large is the car?" he inquires, hoping to ensure that he won't feel too crowded during the journey.

Daisy reassures him, "It's a large truck! There are two front seats, three middle seats, and three more seats in the very back. We'll have plenty of space, don't worry!"

Eleanor's eyes light up at the idea of traveling with a group of friends. "That sounds awesome! I can't wait to meet your friends and have a great time together," she exclaims, her enthusiasm matching Daisy's.

Elio, though more reserved, nods appreciatively at Daisy's planning and consideration. "Thanks for arranging the ride," he says, grateful for the effort Daisy has put into making their trip to the carnival comfortable and enjoyable.

Curiosity piqued, Eleanor turns to Daisy and asks, "How many people are in your close group of friends, Daisy?"

Daisy grins and replies, "There are four of us in the group! Three boys and one girl."

"Wow, that sounds like a fun and balanced group!" Eleanor remarks with a smile. She's looking forward to meeting Daisy's friends and getting to know them better during the trip to the carnival.

Daisy nods enthusiastically and continues, "Yeah! They're all great people. Their names are Max, Jael, Karter, and Valorie."

Eleanor takes note of the names, intrigued by the diversity they suggest. "Nice! It'll be cool to hang out with them," she responds, eager to forge new connections and enjoy the company of Daisy's friends.

As the anticipation builds, a large black truck finally pulls up in front of Michelle's house. Daisy, Eleanor, and Elio's excitement for their carnival adventure is palpable. The window of the truck slowly rolls down, and there's Max, grinning from ear to ear, sticking his head out like an excited pup.

"Hey, Daisy! Get in, we're ready to roll!" Max calls out enthusiastically, his voice carrying the thrill of the upcoming adventure.

However, before Daisy has a chance to respond, Karter, sitting in the driver's seat, interjects with a playful remark. "Max, you know you're not a dog, right? Quit sticking your head out of the window like that," he teases, his own smile reflecting the camaraderie among the friends.

Max chuckles and shakes his head, playfully rolling the window up. "Alright, alright, I get it," he replies, still exuding excitement as he adjusts his seatbelt.

Daisy walks up to the truck with a wide grin, her excitement evident in her every step. She opens the passenger side door, and as she peers inside, she sees Jael and Valorie engrossed in a game on their phones. She greets them cheerfully, "Hey, Jael! Hi, Valorie!"

Upon hearing Daisy's voice, Jael and Valorie look up, their expressions lighting up as they see their friend. "Hey, Daisy!" Jael responds with a warm smile, while Valorie nods in greeting, her quiet nature adding a sense of calm to the group.

With her usual lively spirit, Daisy playfully tells Jael and Valorie to make some space, "Scoot over, guys! We've got company!" She opens the door a little wider and slips inside, taking the seat next to Jael, her energy infectious as always.

As Elio approaches the truck, Daisy pats the seat in the back, inviting him to sit there. "Elio, you can sit back here, and Eleanor can sit next to you," she says, thoughtfully planning the seating arrangement to ensure everyone is comfortable.

As the truck continues on its way to the carnival, Daisy engages in conversation with Jael and Valorie, making sure everyone feels included and part of the fun. She values each member of their group and appreciates the unique qualities that they bring to their friendship.

The ride is filled with laughter, stories, and shared excitement for the adventures that await them at the carnival. Daisy's enthusiasm is contagious, and she ensures that everyone is feeling the same sense of anticipation and joy.

As Karter expertly navigates the black truck into the carnival parking lot, he smoothly brings it to a stop and turns off the engine. The excitement in the air is palpable, and the sound of laughter and music from the carnival fills the surroundings.

Max, unable to contain his excitement any longer, unbuckles his seatbelt and jumps down from the car with exuberance. He stretches his arms wide and lets out a loud, exultant yell, "Freedom!"

However, Karter quickly reprimands Max, cautioning him to be careful. "Max, be careful! You might break something," Karter advises, concern evident in his voice.

Undeterred, Max grins mischievously at Karter, assuring him that he'll be fine. "Relax, Karter! I've been doing gymnastics since I was a kid. I know what I'm doing," he confidently declares.

Daisy quickly takes charge and excitedly tells everyone else in the car to get down. "Come on, guys! Let's go get some tickets and have the time of our lives!" she exclaims, her enthusiasm infectious.

Max, who is already out of the car, bounces up and down with excitement, urging the others to hurry up. "Hurry, hurry! The carnival is waiting for us!" he calls out, unable to contain his anticipation.

Karter, ever the level-headed one, sighs good-naturedly as he takes the keys to the truck and puts them in his pocket, making sure they won't get lost. He knows that with Max's energy and Daisy's enthusiasm, it's best to get moving quickly.

Daisy leads the way as she hops out of the truck, followed by Jael and Valorie. Valorie, always gentle and caring, extends a helping hand to Elio and Eleanor, assisting them in coming down from the truck safely.

As they all gather together, the group of friends heads towards the ticket booth, ready to purchase their passes for a day of endless fun and excitement. The carnival's vibrant colors, joyful music, and the aroma of delicious treats fill the air, heightening their anticipation.

As the group of friends makes their way toward the ticket booth, Elio's curious eyes scan the entrance of the carnival, taking in the colorful attractions and the lively atmosphere. Sensing her brother's inquisitiveness, Eleanor leans over and whispers to Elio, "I wonder what kind of games they have here. It's my first time at the Linhaven carnival, and I'm really curious!"

Elio glances at Eleanor, his thoughtful expression mirroring her curiosity. "Yeah, I'm not sure either," he replies softly. "Baycoast doesn't usually host carnivals like this, so it's all new to me too."

Eleanor nods in understanding, appreciating her brother's honesty. They both come from the quieter and more rural town of Baycoast, where such grand festivities are rare.

As they continue walking toward the ticket booth with the rest of their friends, Daisy, who is always full of ideas and excitement, overhears their conversation. "Don't worry, you two!" she chimes in cheerfully. "We'll explore everything together! I'm sure there'll be tons of fun games and attractions for us to try!"

Max and Valorie nod in agreement, Max's eyes sparkling with anticipation and Valorie's gentle smile assuring them that they're in for a great time.

Karter, with his calm and collected demeanor, adds, "Yeah, let's take our time and enjoy everything the carnival has to offer."

Excitement fills the air as Daisy, Max, Karter, Jael, Valorie, Elio, and Eleanor stand in line at the ticket booth of the bustling Linhaven carnival. The vibrant colors and joyous laughter of other carnival-goers add to their anticipation of the fun-filled day ahead.

As they patiently wait, Daisy takes the lead and informs her friends about their ticket purchase. "Alright, everyone, we're buying 85 tickets each!" she announces with enthusiasm. She swiftly scans her terminal on the machine at the booth's desk, and a bright blue glow surrounds the terminal, indicating a successful transaction. A small piece of paper with the number 85 printed in the same shade of blue is dispensed by the machine.

The friendly ticket vendor then addresses Daisy, "Great! The number of tickets will automatically decrease when you scan your terminal on a ride's clearance machine. Just make sure to keep the piece of paper somewhere close."

Daisy nods, tucking the paper safely into her pocket, ready for the day's adventures. She then turns to her close friends, Elio, and Eleanor, who are next in line, and encourages them to repeat the process. "Go ahead, guys! Just scan your terminals on the machine, and it'll print out the tickets for you," she explains.

One by one, the group approaches the vendor, scanning their terminals, and receiving their individual pieces of paper with the designated number of tickets. Max, always filled with energy, jumps with excitement as he receives his tickets, while Karter, calm and composed, takes his with a grateful smile.

Jael and Valorie, who are naturally more reserved, receive their tickets with a soft thank-you, and Elio and Eleanor, eager to join in on the fun, are thrilled to hold their own pieces of paper, ready for the day's adventures to unfold.

With their tickets in hand and their spirits high, the group is now fully prepared to explore the wonders of the Linhaven carnival.

As the group enters the bustling carnival grounds, they huddle together on the side of the path, mindful of not obstructing the flow of people around them as they begin discussing what to do first.

Max pipes up with a grin, "So, what should we do first, guys?" His eyes scan the surrounding attractions, eager to dive into the carnival experience.

Karter suggests starting with something easy to warm up. He points towards a nearby game called Rowie, which catches the attention of everyone. Curiosity evident on their faces, Elio and Eleanor turn to Karter, asking in unison, "What's Rowie?"

Karter explains, "Rowie is a fun game played in a vast body of water. We'll be divided into teams and get in a raft. The goal is to steer our rafts and collect various items scattered throughout the course. We have to be quick and strategic, as each team can only make three trips to gather the items within a time limit of 30 minutes. The team that collects the most items wins a prize!"

Elio and Eleanor nod, taking in the explanation, while Daisy chimes in, "It sounds like a blast! Let's give it a try!"

Valorie, who is typically reserved, smiles and agrees with the excitement in the air. Jael, quietly observing, nods in agreement as well, intrigued by the unique challenge the game offers.