AETHERA

The rhythmic hush of the ocean was the first sound Vaelore heard every morning.

It had been that way for as long as she could remember.

The scent of salt drifted through the open window as she slowly opened her eyes. Beyond the horizon, the first light of dawn spilled across the garden, bathing the flowers in soft shades of gold while tiny drops of dew shimmered like scattered crystals.

She stretched lazily before slipping out of bed and making her way to the window.

At the heart of the garden stood a magnificent tree. Its long, graceful branches swayed gently in the salty breeze, resembling a weeping willow at first glance. Its broad canopy shaded much of the garden, while its leaves whispered softly whenever the ocean breeze rolled inland.

To anyone else, it was simply a beautiful tree.

To Vaelore...

It had always felt like part of the family.

Every time she looked at it, she thought of her mother.

Years ago, before she passed away, her mother had placed a single seed into Cassian's hands.

"One day, when we finally have a home by the ocean... plant it there."

Cassian had never forgotten those words.

Knowing how deeply she had loved the ocean, he bought this house overlooking the coast—the place where they had shared so many treasured memories—and planted the tiny seed with his own hands.

Over the years, Vaelore had watched it grow from something small enough to fit in the palm of her hand into the magnificent tree that now reached proudly toward the sky.

A soft tapping against the window pulled her from her thoughts.

Smiling, she slid the window open.

Poppy darted inside without a second's hesitation, landing neatly in her arms before climbing onto her shoulder with practiced ease. His tiny paws tickled her neck, drawing a bright laugh from her.

"Good morning to you too."

The little squirrel rubbed his nose affectionately against her cheek.

Although he had a cozy nest tucked away inside the old tree outside, Poppy had decided long ago that the house belonged to him just as much as it belonged to the humans.

Every now and then he would sneak into Vaelore's bag, following her to cafés, bookstores, and even the local market.

By now, everyone in the neighborhood knew the mischievous little squirrel.

A gentle knock echoed through the room.

"Is my morning flower awake?"

Cassian's warm voice instantly filled the room.

Vaelore turned with a smile.

"Morning, Dad."

He stepped inside and kissed her forehead.

"Breakfast's ready."

"I'll be right there."

Poppy remained comfortably perched on her shoulder as they made their way downstairs together.

The kitchen welcomed them with the rich aroma of freshly made omelets, toasted bread, and brewing coffee.

The moment Poppy caught the scent, he leaped from Vaelore's shoulder and dashed across the kitchen counter.

Cassian couldn't help but laugh.

"I see someone couldn't wait."

He reached into the cupboard, took out a small plate, and placed a handful of hazelnuts on it.

Poppy immediately sat down in front of his breakfast with remarkable seriousness, as though preparing for a royal banquet.

Vaelore smiled as she took her seat.

"I think he's the most disciplined member of this family when it comes to breakfast."

Cassian chuckled as he sat across from her.

"I don't think anyone could argue with that."

For a while, the only sounds filling the room were the gentle clink of cutlery and Poppy happily crunching on his hazelnuts.

Neither of them minded the silence.

Weekdays were always busy. Cassian left for the clinic before sunrise, making mornings like these rare.

That was why their weekend breakfasts had quietly become one of their favorite traditions.

After breakfast, Cassian began grinding fresh coffee beans.

Within moments, the comforting aroma filled every corner of the house.

While Vaelore arranged the vitamins her father faithfully took each morning, Cassian filled two thermoses with freshly brewed coffee.

Everything was ready.

Like every weekend...

They were about to take their usual walk along the shore.

Poppy, already waiting impatiently by the front door, clearly had no intention of being left behind.