His Christmas Present

Aria's POV

"Aria! Over here!"

I turned and beheld Aunt Mira waving her arms as she had a great big smile on her face. She was running my way before I could think, and threw her arms open and embraced me.

"Oh, dear," she said , cupping  my face. "Look at you! You've grown so much."

"Aunt Mira, don't embarrass me."  

She ignored me completely. "You have always been studying overseas. Never spent a single holiday at home. You have become a young woman before my very eyes." 

"I had to complete school," I said to myself. "You know that. I couldn't just stop."

She nodded, eyes warm. "I know. Nevertheless, it is different to see you once again. You've changed so much."

We entered her car and she began to talk.  I was mostly nodding and smiling and listening. Her voice was soothing, it felt peaceful and good to be home. 

Few minutes later, she abruptly turned into the street that led to the cemetery. I looked at her, but I said nothing since  I already knew why.

She pulled up next to the rusted gate, and I got out holding the fresh flowers which had been lying  on the backseat of her car. Every stride to the grave of my mother was heavier than the previous one. It was so long since I had been here, and as I stood before her grave my chest was tight.

I got on my knees and put the flowers into position, touching my fingers against the engraved letters. "Hi, Mom," I whispered. "I'm back. For good this time. I'm sorry I stayed away so long... I hope I can make you proud."

Aunt Mira remained silent. I took  a deep breath, and attempted to restrain tears. "I've missed you," I murmured. "I should've come sooner."

"You will be all right, Aria," Aunt Mira said. "You're smart, strong... like her. Your mother would be proud."

I nodded, and it felt as though some of the pain got off my chest.  Then, having passed several silent moments, we returned to the car.

I shared my plans on  the ride home with Aunt Mira. "I'm staying here permanently. I cannot continue staying in a foreign country. And... Caleb and I... we have been having issues. He had asked me to drop out of school and marry him, but I had to complete my education. I was too young to sacrifice my dreams. I want to be like Mom and learn about perfumes. That was always my plan."

Aunt Mira held my hand and squeezed it. "I understand, dear. I wish you all the best."

I smiled. "Thanks, Aunt Mira. I really  need that."

"So... you will be  attending Selene's wedding?" 

"Yes," I said firmly. "I was sent an invite weeks ago."

"And... what about you and your father?" she asked cautiously.

I hesitated. "I am not sure  I can remember the last time we spoke." 

She gave a small nod. "Hopefully this visit will