Chapter One Hundred Twenty Nine - Embracing the Future

The morning sun streamed through the windows of "Our Sweet Dreams" bakery, casting a warm glow on the freshly baked goods lining the display cases. Amelia stood behind the counter, her hair pulled back in a messy bun, a smudge of flour on her cheek. She bounced baby Leo on her hip as she surveyed her kingdom of sugar and butter. "What do you think, little man?" she cooed to Leo. "Should we try the new raspberry swirl cupcake?" Leo gurgled in response, reaching out with chubby fingers towards the colorful confection. Amelia laughed, plucking a cupcake from the tray. "Alright, alright. Mommy will be the taste tester today," she said, taking a small bite. The burst of flavor on her tongue was heavenly, but as she swallowed, a wave of dizziness washed over her. The room began to spin, and Amelia felt her knees buckle. "Oh no," she whispered, clutching Leo tighter as she sank to the floor. The last thing she heard before darkness claimed her was the tinkling of the bakery's bell and a