As she walked down the hallway, she stopped in front of a slightly open door. Inside, two small figures were curled up under the same blanket, peacefully asleep. A tender smile stretched across Sofia's lips as she approached quietly.
- Noah, Liam, it's time to wake up, she whispered while stroking their curly hair.
The seven-year-old twins stirred slightly, but neither seemed ready to leave the warmth of the bed.
- Five more minutes, Mom..., moaned Noah as he burrowed further under the blanket.
- You say that every day, added Liam sleepily, without opening his eyes.
Sofia shook her head in amusement. With their messy brown hair and identical features, they were almost impossible to differentiate at first glance, except for her. Noah was the eternal dreamer, always inventing stories or wacky plans, while Liam had a more methodical, curious, and observant mind.
- No way, my loves, today is a big day. You have a math test, remember?
Immediately, Noah's eyes flew open, excitement replacing fatigue.
- Oh yes! I'm going to break my record again!
- I hope they finally have some exercises that are a bit harder; otherwise, it will be too easy, Liam grumbled as he stretched.
Sofia burst out laughing before planting a kiss on their foreheads.
- Go take a shower, little geniuses, and come have your breakfast.
In the modern yet cozy apartment that she had carefully arranged, Sofia busied herself in the kitchen. She set out two bowls of cereal, whole grain toast, and two glasses of orange juice on the polished wooden table. A cup of black coffee was already waiting for her on the counter.
When the boys entered the kitchen, dressed in their school uniforms – white shirts, navy blue trousers, and matching sweaters – they sat down eagerly.
- Mom, why don't you eat with us? Liam asked, watching her sip her coffee.
- Because Mom is a superheroine who only needs coffee to survive, she replied jokingly.
- Or Mom is watching her figure! Noah added with a teasing smile.
- Oh you, be careful what you say, or I'll tickle you! she teased, shooting him a playful glance.
After breakfast, the apartment turned into a real battlefield. Noah was looking for his notepad, Liam was torn between two pairs of sneakers, and Sofia was running around to make sure they had everything.
- We're going to be late if you keep this up! she exclaimed, grabbing their bags.
Outside, the city was gradually waking up. Car horns echoed in the distance, shutters were being opened, and the smell of hot coffee lingered in the air. Holding one hand on each side, Sofia moved quickly towards the school.
In front of the entrance, she knelt down to kiss her sons.
- Work well, my hearts. I love you.
- We love you too, Mom! they replied in unison before running towards the playground.
Sofia watched them disappear with a pang in her heart, proud but also slightly nostalgic. They were growing up so fast...