Wake Up

My eyes fluttered open to the soft glow of the early morning sun filtering through my window. I glanced at my calendar and a wide grin spread across my face as I saw the date marked in bright red: Christmas Eve. I quickly turned to my sister, Tomoka, who was stirring beside me.

"Tomoka, wake up! It's Christmas Eve!" I whispered excitedly, nudging my sister.

Tomoka yawned and stretched, her eyes lighting up as she too saw the calendar. "Finally! I've been waiting for this day forever!" she exclaimed, throwing off her blanket and hopping out of bed.

The two of us exchanged excited glances before rushing downstairs. The aroma of freshly cooked breakfast wafted through the air, leading us to the kitchen where our parents were already bustling about. Our mother was flipping pancakes while our father set the table with a festive spread.

"Merry Christmas Eve!" Tomoka and I chorused as we entered the kitchen.

Our parents turned, smiling warmly.

"Good morning, girls! Merry Christmas Eve!" our mother replied, her eyes twinkling with joy. "We're making a special breakfast to start the day right."

Our father gestured to the table. "Come, sit down. We have pancakes, bacon, eggs, fresh fruit. It's gonna be a feast!"

The family gathered around the table, the warmth of the kitchen and the delicious smell of food enhancing the festive atmosphere. As we began to eat, our conversation flowed with ease and laughter.

"So, what's the plan for today?" I asked, my mouth full of pancake.

My mother chuckled. "Well, we have a lot to do. We need to finish decorating the house, bake cookies, and prepare for tonight's Christmas Eve party. And of course, we'll be going to the midnight mass."

Tomoka nodded enthusiastically. "I can't wait for the party! It's going to be so much fun with everyone here."

Our father smiled, taking a sip of his coffee. "It's always the best time of the year when the house is filled with family and friends. And this year, it's even more special because Tomoka is home."

My heart swelled with happiness. The festive spirit was infectious, and I couldn't wait to spend the day with my family. "It's going to be perfect," I said softly, looking around the table at the faces I loved so much.

After breakfast, the family continued to chat and laugh, the anticipation for the day's events growing with each passing moment. It was the start of a day filled with joy, love, and cherished memories.

After breakfast, the family gathered in the living room to discuss our plans for the day. Our mom and dad started preparing for the Christmas Eve party, arranging decorations and setting up the dining area.

"Risa, why don't you show me the progress you've made around the barn?" Tomoka suggested, eager to spend time with her sister.

"Sure! Let's go!" I replied enthusiastically, getting up from the couch and leading Tomoka to the back door.

As we stepped outside, my eyes widened in delight. Overnight, a blanket of fresh snow had covered the ground, transforming our farm into a winter wonderland. The sight took my breath away.

"It snowed!" I exclaimed, my eyes sparkling. "I've been wishing for a white Christmas since I was a little girl!"

Tomoka smiled, sharing my excitement. "It's perfect! Let's take advantage of it."

The two of us headed to the barn, but our progress was slow as we kept getting distracted by the pristine snow. I showed Tomoka the improvements made around the barn, but it wasn't long before the temptation of the snow was too much to resist.

I bent down and scooped up a handful of snow, forming it into a ball. With a mischievous grin, I launched it at Tomoka, hitting her squarely on the shoulder. Tomoka stumbled forward, turning back then a mischievous grin stretched across her lips.

"Oh, you're going to regret that!" Tomoka laughed, quickly making her own snowball and returning fire.

A full-blown snowball fight erupted, the air filled with laughter and playful shouts. The two of us darted around the yard, using trees and snow-covered equipment for cover. Our parents watched from the warmth of the house, smiling at the sight of their daughters having so much fun.

"Look at them," our mother said softly, leaning against the window. "It's like they've never been apart."

Our father nodded, a proud smile on his face. "It's moments like these that make all the hard work worth it."

The snowball fight eventually gave way to building snowmen and making snow angels. The both of us worked together to roll large balls of snow, stacking them to create a pair of snowmen. We used sticks for arms, rocks for eyes and buttons, and old scarves and hats to give their creations character.

Finally, we lay down in the snow, waving our arms and legs to make snow angels. The cold air nipped at our cheeks, turning them rosy, but we didn't mind. We were too caught up in the joy of the moment. After a while, we stood up to admire our work.

"Look at our snow family," I said, giggling. "They look amazing!"

"They really do," Tomoka agreed, brushing snow from her coat. "This has been the best Christmas Eve morning ever."

As we headed back to the house, our parents met us at the door, bundled up against the cold. "You girls looked like you were having a great time out there," our mother said, wrapping her arms around us.

"We did," I replied, still smiling. "It's everything I wished for and more."

The family spent the rest of the morning together, the warmth of our love and the joy of the season wrapping around us like a cozy blanket. The happiness of the moment made everything seem right in the world, a precious memory that I would carry with me forever.

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With everything set and ready for the party, the family relaxed in the warm glow of our home. The Christmas tree twinkled with lights, and the scent of festive foods filled the air.

The doorbell rang, breaking the cozy silence. Expecting our company, I sprang to my feet and hurried to the door. I opened it to find Aaron and his mother, Yaya, standing there with bright smiles, their arms laden with gifts, food, and snacks.

"Merry Christmas Eve, Risa!" Aaron greeted, his eyes twinkling with warmth.

"Merry Christmas Eve!" Yaya echoed, her smile just as warm.

"Merry Christmas Eve!" I replied, beaming. "Come in, come in!"

Aaron and Yaya stepped inside, shaking off the cold. My parents came to greet them, exchanging hugs and pleasantries.

"It's so good to see you both," my mother said warmly. "Thank you for bringing all this wonderful food and the gifts."

"Our pleasure," Yaya replied. "It's been too long since we've all been together like this."

After settling the gifts under the tree and the food on the kitchen counter, I took Aaron's hand and led him to the living room. "Come on, there's someone you need to see," she said with a grin.

"Alright," Aaron followed, his curiosity piqued.

As we entered the living room, Tomoka looked up from her phone and her face lit up with joy. "Aaron! It's so good to see you again!"

"Tomoka!" Aaron exclaimed, rushing over to hug her. "You look amazing! How's the modeling world treating you?"

"It's been great!" Tomoka said, chuckling softly and embracing Aaron in a tight hug.

They caught up, sharing stories and laughter. The bond they shared from childhood was still strong, their camaraderie as natural as ever. Meanwhile, my parents and Yaya chatted in the kitchen, the adults enjoying their own reunion.

As the conversation in the living room flowed, Tomoka leaned over and whispered to me, "Now's your chance. Take him under the mistletoe and tell him how you feel."

My heart raced, a mix of nerves and excitement bubbling inside me. I glanced at the mistletoe hanging in the doorway, then at Aaron, who was laughing at one of Tomoka's jokes. Taking a deep breath and gathering my courage, I stood up.

"Aaron," I said, my voice steady but soft, "can you come with me for a second?"

Aaron looked up, curiosity and a hint of concern in his eyes. "Sure, Risa. What's up?"

I led him to the doorway, positioning us right under the mistletoe. I took a deep breath, my heart pounding in my chest. "There's something I need to tell you," I began, my voice shaking slightly.

Aaron's eyes softened, his gaze locking onto mine. "What is it, Risa?"

I took another deep breath and mustered all my courage. "Aaron, I've liked you for a long time. I've always felt something special between us, and I just… I love you."

For a moment, there was silence. Then Aaron's face broke into a warm, radiant smile. "Risa, I've felt the same way about you. I love you too."

Relief and joy flooded through me, and before I could say another word, Aaron leaned in and kissed me gently. The world seemed to melt away, leaving just the two of us in that perfect moment.

Tomoka cheered and clapped, her excitement breaking the spell. "Finally!" she exclaimed, her grin wide.

Hearing the commotion, our parents came into the living room. They stopped in their tracks, taking in the sight of Aaron and I sharing our first kiss under the mistletoe.

"Oh, look at that," my mother said, tears of happiness welling in her eyes. "They're so sweet."

My father smiled proudly, his heart full. "I'm happy for them."

Yaya placed a hand over her heart, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "They make a beautiful couple."

The rest of the evening was filled with laughter, joy, and the warmth of family and friends. The Christmas Eve party was everything I had dreamed of and more, a night that would be cherished in our hearts forever.

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The night air was crisp as my family and I stepped out of our cozy home, bundled in warm coats and scarves. The streets were quiet, blanketed in a fresh layer of snow that glistened under the moonlight. We piled into the car and made our way to the local church for the midnight mass service, a cherished family tradition.

The church was beautifully adorned with twinkling lights and candles, casting a warm, serene glow over the congregation. The scent of pine and wax mingled in the air, creating a peaceful atmosphere. As we found their seats, the choir began to sing, their voices filling the church with the harmonious strains of Christmas hymns.

I sat between my parents, with Tomoka beside me. We held hands, a silent bond of love and togetherness as we listened to the service. The pastor spoke of hope, love, and new beginnings, his words resonating deeply with everyone present.

When the service ended, we filed out of the church, our spirits lifted by the beautiful celebration. The drive home was filled with a quiet joy, the car filled with the gentle hum of the heater and the soft laughter of me and Tomoka.

"Tomorrow's going to be amazing," Tomoka said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"I know! I can't wait to see what Santa brought us," I replied, giggling. "And we'll get to spend the whole day together, just like old times."

Our parents smiled, their hearts warmed by the happiness of the two of us. As we drove along the quiet country roads, the snow-covered landscape glowing under the starlight, I felt a deep sense of contentment.

Suddenly, a strange sensation washed over me. A distant, echoing voice seemed to call out to me from within her own mind.

"Stella…it's…time…to…wake…up..!"

"Get up!"

The voice was fragmented, barely discernible, but it sent a sharp pain through my head. I winced, clutching my forehead as the pain intensified. My vision blurred, and a wave of dizziness washed over me.

"Risa, are you okay?" Tomoka asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Before I could respond, my eyes fluttered shut, and I slumped against the seat. My family glanced back, but my peaceful expression led them to believe I had simply fallen asleep after a long and joyful evening.

"We'll let her rest," my mother whispered, brushing a strand of hair from my face.

As we continued our drive home, unaware of the strange event that had just occurred, the snow continued to fall gently around them, wrapping the world in a quiet, serene blanket of white.

The first light of dawn filtered through the curtains as Tomoka quietly stepped toward my bed. The excitement of Christmas morning shone in her eyes as she gently shook me awake.

"Risa, wake up! It's Christmas!" Tomoka whispered, unable to contain her excitement.

I stirred, my eyes fluttering open. As the realization dawned on me, a wide smile spread across my face. "Christmas!" I exclaimed, throwing off my blanket and jumping out of bed.

The two of us quickly dressed in our cozy pajamas and raced downstairs, our footsteps echoing through the house. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and cinnamon filled the air, making our hearts race with anticipation.

Our parents were already in the living room, sipping on their coffee and waiting for the two of us. The Christmas tree sparkled with lights and ornaments, and underneath it lay a pile of beautifully wrapped presents.

"Merry Christmas, girls," our father greeted us with a warm smile.

"Merry Christmas!" we replied in unison, our voices filled with joy.

The family began to exchange gifts, laughter and chatter filling the room. My parents handed me a neatly wrapped box, which I eagerly unwrapped to reveal a new set of art supplies. My eyes sparkled with delight as I thanked them with a big hug.

Then, Tomoka handed me a small, elegantly wrapped box. "This one is from me," she said, her voice soft with emotion.

I carefully unwrapped the present, revealing a delicate silver pendant with a mix of our birthstones on it. I opened the locket and found a tiny picture of Tomoka and I as children, our faces beaming with happiness.

"Tomoka, this is beautiful," I whispered, my voice choked with emotion. Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked at the precious gift. "I love it."

Tomoka smiled, her own eyes glistening with tears. "I wanted you to have something special to remind you of our bond. No matter where life takes us, we'll always be together."

I threw my arms around my sister, and we hugged tightly, our bond stronger and unbreakable. "Thank you, Tomoka. I'll cherish this forever."

After exchanging gifts, the family moved to the kitchen, where a hearty breakfast awaited us. We sat around the table, sharing laughter and stories as we enjoyed the delicious meal.

"So, what do you girls want for Christmas dinner?" our mother asked, her eyes twinkling with joy.

"I was thinking we could have a big feast with all our favorite dishes," I suggested. "Roast chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and of course, your famous apple pie, Mom."

Tomoka nodded enthusiastically. "And we should definitely have some hot cocoa to go with it."

Our father chuckled. "That sounds like a perfect plan. We'll make it a Christmas to remember."

As we finished their breakfast, the warmth of the family's love and togetherness filled the room. I felt a deep sense of happiness, grateful for the precious moments we were sharing.

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As the golden sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange, Tomoka, Aaron, and I strolled leisurely through the countryside on our horses. The air was crisp and cool, carrying with it the scent of pine and earth. Snowflakes danced in the air, adding a touch of magic to the winter landscape.

We strolled on our horses in comfortable silence for a while, taking in the beauty of their surroundings. But soon, the silence was broken by our laughter and chatter, filling the air with warmth and joy.

"Isn't this perfect?" I exclaimed, my eyes sparkling with delight as she glanced around at the snowy landscape. "I've always loved this time of year."

Tomoka nodded in agreement, a wide grin spreading across her face. "It's like something out of a fairy tale," she remarked, her voice filled with wonder.

Aaron chuckled softly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I have to admit, it's pretty magical," he admitted, his gaze lingering on me for a moment longer than necessary.

I blushed at the attention, but I smiled shyly back at him. "I'm glad you think so," I replied, my heart fluttering in my chest.

We continued to walk, our laughter and conversation carrying them along the snowy path. As we talked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness and contentment wash over me. For the first time in a long time, I felt truly alive.

As the three of us returned from our stroll, our hearts were light and our spirits high. We laughed and joked as we made our way back to the farm, the warmth of our bond banishing the chill of the winter air.

But as we rounded a bend in the road, our laughter was cut short by the sound of screeching tires. A speeding car came hurtling around the corner, its driver losing control on the icy road.

In an instant, chaos erupted. Blanche reared in panic, her eyes wide with fear. I clung desperately to my reins, trying to calm my beloved horse. But before we could react, the car slammed into us with devastating force, sending them crashing to the ground.

The impact was deafening. Blanche let out a pained whinny as she collapsed to the ground, her beautiful white coat stained crimson with blood. I was thrown from my saddle, landing in a crumpled heap beside my loyal steed.

Tomoka and Aaron watched in horror as the scene unfolded before their eyes. Time seemed to stand still as they rushed to my side, their hearts pounding with fear and desperation.

"Risa!" Tomoka cried, her voice trembling with emotion. She knelt beside me, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Please, Risa, wake up!"

Aaron's hands shook as he tried to assess my injuries. Blood pooled beneath me, staining the snow red with its warmth. He could feel the life slipping away from me, his heart breaking at the thought of losing me.

But I was still conscious, her breaths coming in ragged gasps. I reached out a trembling hand, my fingers brushing against Aaron's cheek.

"I don't want to die," I whispered, my voice barely audible over the din of the accident. "I'm not ready to go."

Aaron's heart shattered at my words. He took my hand in his, holding it tightly as if he could somehow stop the inevitable. Tomoka clung to me, her tears mingling with mine as they shared a moment of heart-wrenching sorrow.

But even as we held onto each other, they knew that there was nothing they could do to save me. My injuries were too severe, my body too broken to be healed.

As my strength began to wane, the fragmented voices echoed in my mind, urging me to wake up. But I knew it was too late. With a final, rasping breath, I closed my eyes and slipped into unconsciousness, my spirit drifting into the realm of dreams.

The world around me fell silent, the only sound the soft whisper of the wind as it carried my soul away into the night.

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My eyes snapped open, my heart pounding in my chest as I gasped for air. Tears streamed down my cheeks as I frantically looked around, my mind still reeling from the vividness of my dream. I reached out to touch my body, my fingers trembling as I confirmed that I was indeed alive.

But as I looked around my room, the remnants of my dream lingered like a shadow. The pendant Tomoka had given me still hung around my neck, a constant reminder of the life I had lost.

Beside my bed, Victoria stood with a worried expression, her eyes filled with concern. "Your Highness, are you alright?" she asked, her voice soft and gentle.

I nodded slowly, my throat tight with emotion. "I…I think so," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. I wiped away my tears, trying to compose myself as I struggled to make sense of what had just happened.

Victoria reached out a comforting hand, her touch warm and reassuring. "You've been asleep for nearly three days," she explained, her voice tinged with concern. "I was starting to worry."

My heart sank at the realization. Three days…it felt like a lifetime had passed since I had closed my eyes and drifted into the realm of dreams. But now, as I looked around my room, I knew that I couldn't dwell on the past any longer.

With a soft sigh, I pushed myself upright, her gaze steady and determined. I knew that I had to let go of the life I had lost and embrace the one that lay before me. I was no longer Risa Nakagami, the simple farm girl. I am now Stella Bushi, the Princess of Lunia.

As Victoria helped me out of bed, I felt a sense of purpose wash over me. I knew that my journey was far from over, but I was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. With a newfound resolve, I took my first steps into my new life, leaving behind the shadows of the past and stepping into the light of the future.