(*Audra's perspective - Past)
The air outside was crisp, the early morning sun stretched over the backyard as I stepped onto the wooden deck, still dressed in my pyjamas. The scent of damp earth and blooming flowers surrounded me, the familiar view of the backyard instantly calming me.
Mom was already sitting on the old wooden bench, a steaming mug of coffee in her hands. The bench my father built was the one where she and I always had our most honest conversations.
"Morning, sweetheart," she greeted, giving me a knowing smile as I sat beside her.
"Morning," I murmured, pulling my knees up and resting my arms over them. "You were up early."
She smirked into her mug. "I could say the same about you."
I shrugged. "Hard to sleep after last night's surprise."
Her eyes twinkled, clearly pleased with herself. "Chris really went all out, huh?"
"He did," I admitted, my lips curving at the memory. "I still can't believe he pulled it off without me noticing."
