"Are you ready?" Crescentia asked.
Noella nodded excitedly, bouncing on the balls of her feet. Her enthusiasm was contagious, bringing a small smile to Crescentia's lips.
Carefully, Crescentia reached out and untied the blindfold covering Noella's eyes. The moment the fabric fell away, Noella gasped.
The living room was warm and inviting, the scent of fresh lavender filling the air. In the corner stood Clara, her grin wide with mischief as she popped open a confetti cannon. Glittering gold and silver pieces rained down, swirling in the light before landing on the floor in a sparkling mess.
"Welcome, Noella!" Clara cheered, arms open wide.
Noella squealed in delight and ran straight into Clara's embrace. Crescentia watched with a soft expression—Clara had always been like a second sister to Noella. She had visited their home a few times in the past to hang out, and the two had bonded instantly.
