Rosita strolled through the community, a picture of calm in a world that had long since forgotten what that felt like. Coco, her tiny miracle, was nestled in her arms, warm and commfortable. Life carried on around her—people haggling over supplies, kids running past with giggles that almost made you believe the world was still safe, the low murmur of conversations mixing with the clatter of metal and boots. But Rosita didn’t mind. These little moments were hers, a chance to breathe, to remember that not everything had to be survival mode all the time. And the gentle weight of Coco against her chest felt like the universe's way of saying, Here. You’ve earned this.

As she walked past the stables, Rosita slowed, her eyes catching the graceful form of a horse standing nearby, as if it had been waiting just for her. A smile tugged at her lips, the kind that came naturally when something simple and beautiful crossed her path. Shifting Coco slightly, she freed up one hand and reached out, her fingers brushing the animal’s velvety nose.

The horse let out a soft nicker, pressing closer with a look that said, More, please.

“Hey there, beauty,” Rosita said warmly, like the sun on a cool day. “You’re looking majestic today.”

Of course, Coco wasn’t having any of that. The moment her mother’s attention wandered, the little princess made herself known. A soft whine broke the peace, and her small hands tugged on weakly at Rosita's shirt.

Rosita’s eyes fell to her daughter, and she chuckled. “I haven’t forgotten about you, Coco,” she said, leaning down to plant a gentle kiss on the top of her head. “Just making sure our four-legged friend here gets some love too.”

Coco’s wide eyes met hers, giggling bubbly at the kiss while reaching up for her face.