UNDER THE TREE

The aroma of coffee and toast drifted through the kitchen as I grabbed a quick breakfast before heading out. The morning sunlight poured in through the windows, bathing the house in a soft glow that made the Christmas decorations sparkle. There was a quiet calm in the air, the kind that only came on mornings like this, when plans were set and the day stretched ahead, full of promise.

As I finished, I walked towards the living room, carrying my small suitcase, I placed it on the couch for a moment, unzipping it to check its contents one last time. Toothbrush, a couple of extra outfits, gifts for Liz and her parents—it was all neatly packed. The festive wrapping paper on the gifts added a cheerful splash of colour against the neutral tones of my clothes. Satisfied, I zipped it closed and pulled up the handle, ready to head out.

I placed the suitcase back on the ground, ready to go but before I could start walking towards the front door, something caught my eye.