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I crouch down to her level, meeting her gaze directly. "Absolutely," I tell her. "But remember, it's not just about the strength you show in the ring. It's about the strength you carry in your heart. And it’s important to have people who love you and support your dreams. They'll help you get there."
She absorbs my words, her eyes never leaving mine. Finally, with a fierce nod, she murmurs, "I have my sister."
I glance up at the older girl, who’s watching the exchange with a proud smile. "Then you're already halfway there."
The air around us is charged with a shared understanding. This isn’t just about fighting. It's about life, aspirations, and the unwavering spirit needed to chase them.
With a newfound confidence, the little girl grins. "Thank you, Tsarina."
I stand up, handing her the notebook. "Keep that spirit alive, and always fight for what you believe in."
She clutches the notebook to her chest, beaming, while her sister offers a grateful nod. "Thank you," she says, her voice carrying an undertone of respect.
With a final wave, I turn and continue on my way, and I can't help but note the extra spring in my step. Recognition is one thing; inspiring a new generation is something else entirely. The weight of that responsibility isn’t lost on me. It's a reminder of the path I've chosen and the impact it has on others.
The lively resonance of clinking glasses and the murmur of conversation pull me into the embrace of my family. The Polugar, smooth and potent, flows from the bottle into glasses, the liquid's shimmer echoing the vibrancy of the gathering. With every pour, I relish the simple pleasure of being surrounded by the ones I cherish.
Toasts are raised, stories exchanged, and laughter fills the air. This is the warmth I had craved for so long, and it's now interwoven into the fabric of my life. We've all faced trials and tribulations, but today, it's about the joy that binds us. It's about the love that runs deeper than blood.
As I make my way into the kitchen to grab more food, the fragrance of the rich dishes hits me all at once, making my stomach churn ever so slightly.
Samuil follows close behind, his presence unmistakable even if I don't turn to see him. The rhythm of our lives has grown so synchronized that our movements often mirror one another. We maneuver around the kitchen with ease, gathering platters and checking on the still-warming dishes.
"You know," I begin, the words slipping out before I can contain them, "I'm thinking of taking a bit of a break from the ring."
He pauses, a forkful of salad halfway to his mouth. "Really? Why?"
Damn. I hadn't meant to let that out, not yet anyway. My sharp gaze meets his curious one. For a split second, I debate sidestepping the subject, but the truth always has a way of revealing itself. Instead of verbalizing it, I guide his hand and place it gently on my stomach.
"Let's just say, I won't be in fighting shape for a while," I tell him, holding his gaze, letting the implication hang in the air between us.
His eyes widen, darting between my face and where his hand rests. The realization doesn't dawn immediately, but when it does, the transformation of his expression is profound. A mix of wonder, elation, and a touch of disbelief floods his features. The revelation rests between us, emotions raw and pure.
"You mean...?" he starts, his voice laden with emotion.
I nod, a grin breaking out on my face, mirroring the joy reflected in his eyes. "Yes. Looks like the family's about to get a bit bigger."
For a long moment, we stand there, absorbed in our shared bubble of happiness. The noises from the party outside feel distant, muffled. This moment, right here in our kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of home-cooked food and the warmth of family just beyond the walls, feels like the very essence of life. Full, overflowing, and deeply satisfying.
Samuil pulls me into a tight embrace. Words aren't necessary. The synchronized beating of our hearts conveys everything that needs to be said.
Pulling back, Samuil offers that familiar smirk, mischief sparkling in his eyes. "Well, Tsarina, it seems we have some news to share."
Chuckling, I link my arm with his. "We do. But first, let's savor this moment a little longer."
With that, we make our way back to the patio doors, ready to embrace the next chapter of our lives. The joy, the challenges, the shared dreams await us. And as the sounds of the party grow louder with each step, we pause, taking a moment to breathe it all in before stepping into the whirlwind of congratulations and jubilation.
The End
