Saturday mornings had always carried a sense of calm, a quiet pause in the relentless pace of the week.
Today, however, was anything but calm. It was charged with anticipation. Because I was getting ready to pick up Ella's mother from the airport, a task I'd taken upon myself, knowing how much this visit meant to her.
I was finishing up the last few details of getting ready.
Fastening the knot on my tie in the mirror, making sure it was straight. When Ella's voice broke through my focus.
"I really want to come with you," she said from across the room, her tone carrying a mix of boredom and determination.
I paused, frowning slightly. Ella was supposed to rest. That had been the arrangement
I sighed, and glanced at her from the mirror. "Ella, you need to stay back and rest. You need to take it easy."
She stepped closer, arms folded across her chest, her expression a blend of exasperation and defiance.