Veronica stopped what she was doing and turned to Sabrina. "When were you thinking of going?"
Sabrina shifted uncomfortably, clearly struggling with her answer.
Veronica could read between the lines. The girl was hoping to catch a window when Niall and Cullen would be unavailable, leaving Veronica as her only option. The problem was Sabrina had no way to predict their schedules, which explained her uncertainty.
Veronica looked away and spoke casually. "Don't worry about it. Just give me a heads up whenever you decide, and I'll take you if my calendar's clear."
Sabrina's face lit up instantly. "Really? That's amazing!"
The remainder of the week flew by in a blur of meetings and deadlines for Veronica. Friday evening found her leaving the office earlier than usual. She had barely stepped through her front door, already mentally planning a simple dinner, when her phone buzzed with an incoming call. Sabrina's name flashed on the screen. Veronica stared at it for a beat before swiping to answer.
"Mom! Tomorrow's perfect for me! Can we hit the slopes?"
Veronica had indeed given Sabrina permission to choose their skiing date. However, Saturday was absolutely out of the question.
Her weekend plans involved a delicate mix of business and social networking that required her complete focus. Having Sabrina there would split her attention in ways she couldn't afford.
She kept her voice steady. "Tomorrow doesn't work for me. Let's look at next week instead."
Sabrina's voice immediately took on a pleading tone. "But Mom, I really have my heart set on Saturday! Please say yes?"
"Saturday is impossible. If you're still interested next week, we'll make it happen."
Sabrina launched into full persuasion mode, her voice becoming sickeningly sweet. "Mommy, please..."
Veronica remained unmoved. "Next week is your best bet if you still want to go. And make sure you're eating properly—no skipping meals or being difficult about food." She disconnected before Sabrina could respond.
Her phone stayed silent afterward.
Veronica knew Sabrina well enough to recognize the silence for what it was—sulking and anger. The realization didn't trouble her in the slightest as she headed to the kitchen to prepare her meal.
Saturday morning brought another call from Marco, inquiring whether she needed transportation to their destination.
Veronica politely declined his offer.
After a leisurely breakfast, she made the drive to the ski resort herself. Marco and Cecelia had arrived ahead of her, already settled in and ready for the day.
The moment Cecelia spotted her, she released Marco's hand without hesitation and sprinted across the snow. "Ms. Murray!"
Veronica opened her arms as Cecelia crashed into her embrace, wrapping the child in a warm hug.
She studied Cecelia's glowing expression, then gently cupped her face. "Look at you—you've definitely grown since I last saw you. Your face is fuller too, which makes you even more beautiful."
Cecelia practically glowed under the compliment, nodding with enthusiasm. "Yes! I've been eating so much protein!"
Veronica couldn't help but smile at her excitement. Before she could comment, Cecelia was already digging through her jacket pocket with determination. "Ms. Murray, I brought something special for you."
She produced a delicate crystal keychain featuring a tiny pink handbag with a miniature white kitten nestled inside. The craftsmanship was exquisite, every detail perfectly rendered.
The keychain bore a striking resemblance to one Veronica had noticed on Sabrina's backpack recently—identical in design but different in color scheme.
Given Marco's frequent interactions with Cullen, Niall, and their circle, it made perfect sense that Cecelia and Sabrina would end up with matching accessories.
Veronica considered the coincidence briefly but decided not to pursue the topic.
Instead, she smiled warmly. "This is absolutely gorgeous. I'm touched that you thought of me. Thank you so much, Cecelia."
Cecelia beamed with pride at Veronica's positive reaction, immediately grabbing her hand with both of hers. "Ms. Murray, can we start skiing now?"
Veronica squeezed her small hand gently. "Of course we can."
As they made their way toward the lodge, Marco fell into step beside them. "Did you manage to eat this morning? We picked up some pastries on the way here if you're still hungry."
Veronica shook her head. "That's thoughtful of you, but I ate before leaving home."
After changing into their gear and adjusting their goggles properly, the trio headed out to the main slopes.
Cecelia's skiing technique was still developing, but Veronica had years of experience on the mountain and took her time coaching the young girl through each movement.
The resort was packed with weekend visitors, creating a lively atmosphere on every trail.