The next morning, soft sunlight filtered through the curtains as Aunt Mina gently knocked on Lyla's door.
"Lyla, sweetheart, get up. We're going out today," she called with a bright tone.
Lyla peeked from under her blanket, a little surprised. "Out?"
Mina pushed the door open with a smile. "Yes. Family picnic. Just in the community park nearby. You've been cooped up for too long."
Though she felt hesitant, Lyla saw the hopeful glint in her aunt's eyes and nodded. "Okay… I'll get ready."
Preparations began in full swing.
Crystal was organizing the picnic mat and checking the cooler box, while Uncle James and Mr. Anderson carried folding chairs and umbrellas to the car. Claire was busy packing sandwiches and snacks, and the smell of marinated chicken wafted from the kitchen where Mandy, Noah's mom, was preparing BBQ ingredients.
"I swear this is enough to feed an army," Uncle James laughed, lifting a giant container of fruit salad.
