The next morning, Eleanor woke up earlier than usual. A quiet sense of nervous excitement hung in the air… it was Freya's first day at school. She moved quickly and efficiently, preparing Freya's schoolbag with the items she had already purchased: an extra change of clothes, socks, and the iPad required by the school. She double-checked everything… water bottle, wet tissues, and a small card with her phone number written clearly.
She gave a soft sigh of satisfaction as she zipped the bag shut. Just then, a sleepy voice called from the bed.
"Mommy... what are you doing?"
Eleanor turned to see Freya rubbing her eyes, her soft silver hair tousled from sleep.
"Your schoolbag is ready," Eleanor replied gently. "Now let's eat breakfast and head out. It's your big day."
Freya yawned and rolled out of bed with reluctant steps. After brushing her teeth and splashing water on her face, she followed her mother to the dining room where breakfast was already laid out.
