233: RETORTS

ARIEL'S POV I tiptoed into Janice's bedroom, careful not to wake her up. She looked so peaceful, her chest rising and falling gently as she slept. I couldn't help but smile at the sight of her. I had gone to the bookstore early this morning to pick up some books for her. Last night, she had been begging me for the latest bestseller, and I couldn't resist spoiling her. Just when I placed the books on her nightstand, I saw her stir and slowly open her eyes. "Mom?" She mumbled sleepily, rubbing her eyes. "Good morning, sweetheart," I said, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "Time to wake up." She groaned and buried her face in her pillow. "Already? Can't I sleep for five more minutes?" I chuckled and sat down on the edge of her bed. "Nope. You have a full day ahead of you. And besides, I have a surprise for you." Her eyes widened with excitement. "Really? What is it?" I handed her the books, and her face lit up. "Oh my gosh, thank you