~~CHAPTER 6~~

*time skip to next day*

It was Christmas Eve, and the atmosphere in the mansion was enveloped in warmth and cheer. Soft lights twinkled from the Christmas tree, its branches adorned with colorful ornaments and shimmering tinsel. Anya, with a small smile plastered on her face, decorated the tree alongside the head caretaker, a kind-hearted senior known for his gentle demeanor and love for the holidays.

**"Look, Mr. Lee! This one goes right here!"** Anya giggled, holding up a sparkly star ornament that sparkled even brighter in her little hands.

**"Perfect, Anya! That will complete the top of the tree beautifully,"** Mr. Lee responded, encouraging her creativity as he carefully placed the delicate ornament in the suitable spot.

Meanwhile, in the living area, Y/N and her friends gathered, their hearts lightened by the spirits of the season. The atmosphere buzzed as they discussed plans for the following day.

**"Tomorrow we have to meet Granny,"** Y/N said, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia. She recalled her mother’s warmth and wisdom, knowing how much Anya loved spending time with her grandmother.

**"Absolutely, we didn't visit her when we arrived in Korea,"** Jennie chimed in, her voice filled with excitement at the thought of family time.

**"But for today, we should give time to Anya,"** Lisa said, her gaze drawn to the sounds of laughter coming from the other room.

Y/N nodded in agreement, grateful for the happy moments they could create together. **"She deserves this. After everything, I want her to feel the joy of the season."**

As she spoke, the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through the air. Rose had been busy in the kitchen, preparing treats to celebrate the holiday. The mouthwatering scent of gingerbread and apple pie drifted through the living room, enticing everyone to indulge.

**"I think we should join them,"** Jisoo suggested, her eyes sparkling with mischief. **"Let’s make some holiday crafts to go with the tree decorations. Anya would love it!"**

Y/N smiled at the thought. The transition into their life here had brought unexpected complexities, but moments like these reminded her of the importance of family and friendship.

**"Alright, let's gather some materials. I think we have some ribbons and colored paper in the craft box,"** Y/N said, rising from her seat.

As they moved into the dining area, the sound of laughter caught their attention, and Y/N found herself watching Anya as she wove colorful garlands around the tree. It brought warmth to her heart, seeing her daughter so engaged in the spirit of the season.

With materials in hand, the group gathered around the table, their laughter mingling with Anya's joyful squeals.

For the rest of the afternoon, they cut, colored, and crafted together, the atmosphere brightened by the sound of camaraderie. Anya bounced between her tasks, exuding youthful energy, and her friends became like a second family, wrapping her in love and cheer.

As evening drew closer, Mr. Lee finished decorating the tree. He stepped back to admire their handiwork.

**"This looks extraordinary, Anya. You’ve done a remarkable job,"** he praised, his eyes sparkling with pride.

Anya beamed, her smile infectious. **"And we still have cookies to decorate! Right?"**

The whole group cheered; the anticipation of sweets and cheer filled the room.

Amidst the festive preparations, Y/N felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. They had created a cocoon of love and laughter that buffered them against whatever troubles might lay ahead.

As dusk settled, the soft glow of candles lit the living room, casting dancing shadows across the walls. The essence of Christmas enveloped them, lifting spirits and stitching together the bonds of friendship and family.

Further into the night, Y/N whispered a silent promise to herself and to Anya. No matter what the new year brought, she would protect their joy and their family.

The Christmas celebration blossomed in full swing as the evening unfolded. The room sparkled with lights, the vibrant glow of the decorated tree casting playful shadows across the walls. Anya’s laughter filled the air, a delightful sound that echoed the joy of the season.

Y/N, embracing the spirit of Christmas, joined her friends in the kitchen, where the aroma of Rose’s freshly baked cookies mingled with the sweetness of the evening.

**"Who wants to decorate the cookies first?"** Rose asked, placing a platter of warm, sugary treats on the counter.

**"Me! Me!"** Anya exclaimed, bouncing on her toes.

**"Alright, little chef, grab the icing!"** Y/N smiled, watching as Anya’s eyes lit up at the assortment of colorful icings, sprinkles, and candy canes laid before her.

The kitchen transformed into a cheerful battleground of creativity. Sprinkles flourished into a sugary confetti storm as Anya, clutching a tiny piping bag, carefully decorated her cookie with a mixture of pride and glee.

**"Look at my snowman!"** she announced proudly, holding up a lopsided cookie that was more charming than perfect.

**"He’s perfect!"** Jennie encouraged, laughter bubbling over the camaraderie. **"He’s so unique, just like you!"**

As they indulged in sweet treats, Y/N couldn’t help but relish the moment. Each bite of cookie mingled with laughter, casting a spell of warmth over the group.

Once the cookies were decorated, they turned their attention back to the living room.

**"Time to reveal our Christmas tree!"** Jisoo declared, a playful grin lighting up her face.

Everyone gathered around the beautifully adorned tree, and Y/N watched in delight as Anya ran ahead, her tiny hands reaching for the golden star atop.

With collective whispers and giggles, they counted down together.

**"Three, two, one!"**

Anya reached up, placing the star securely, and everyone clapped, enveloped in a collective moment of joy.

**"It’s beautiful!"** Anya exclaimed, spinning around to take in the spectacle of colors and twinkling lights.

As the tree glimmered in triumph, the atmosphere shifted. Y/N suggested they take a family photo, wanting to capture this perfect moment.

With everyone arranged around the tree, Y/N set a timer on her phone. **"Smile, everyone!"**

The camera clicked, freezing a snapshot of their glowing faces adorned with happiness, love, and a sprinkle of holiday magic.

As the evening wore on, they shared stories of past Christmases, reminiscing about childhood traditions and the essence of family. Anya listened, wide-eyed, soaking in the tales as if they held magic.

**"What’s your favorite Christmas memory, Momma?"** Anya asked, her curious gaze directed towards Y/N.

Y/N smiled, her heart swelling with affection as she remembered winter’s charm. **"I would decorate the house with my family, and we would bake cookies—just like we did today. We’d leave cookies out for Santa."**

**"Did he really eat them?"** Anya asked, eyes wide with awe.

**"I’m pretty sure he did! At least, we always found crumbs the next morning,"** Y/N said with a playful wink.

Later, as the clock struck midnight, they gathered around the tree once more, hands clasped together. Y/N took a moment to appreciate the faces illuminated in the tree’s glow, her friends and daughter standing side by side.

**"Here’s to hope, joy, and new beginnings in this coming year!"** Y/N declared, her heart full.

With smiles all around and spirits lifted high, they celebrated the magic of Christmas Eve, blissfully unaware of what awaited them, but ready to face it together.

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