Stirrings of change

After submitting the form, I bid the receptionist farewell and headed to the nearest subway to return home. As I walked through the door, I felt a mix of emotions, unsure of how to break the news to my parents. My dad would likely be opposed to the idea, and my mum... well, she rarely had a say in our household.

Fortunately, my dad wasn't home, probably at his favorite bar, where he'd drink away his sorrows before returning to take out his frustrations on my mum. The thought sent a shiver down my spine.

With a sense of relief, I walked into the house, feeling more confident. The aroma of freshly baked goods wafted from the kitchen, making my stomach growl with hunger. My mum, the best mum in the world, was busy cooking up a storm.

I rushed towards her, wrapping my arms around her in a tight hug. "Mum!" I exclaimed, trying to contain my excitement.

My mum is an ethereal beauty, with skin as flawless as glass. Her beauty is breathtaking, and I'm often told I inherited her stunning looks.

As I hugged her tightly, I snatched a cookie from the table and stuffed it into my mouth. My mum chuckled and gently spanked my butt, and we both erupted into laughter.

With my mum still beaming with pride, I decided to share the news about the fashion designing competition. I told her everything from the registration process to my encounter with Adrian. Her expression transformed from shock to pride, and she congratulated me on making it to the next round.

However, her demeanor suddenly turned serious, and she said, "Stella, it's time I told you something." Her tone was enigmatic, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. This was the first time I'd seen my mum so solemn....