My alarm clock isn't a clock anymore.
It's my two little monkeys—right on time at 6 a.m., every single day.
"Mommmmm, wake up! Let's go to the park—jogging, running, brisk walking!"
"Let me sleep for ten more minutes…" I mumbled, pulling the blanket over my head.
"No, Mom. Your ten minutes will turn into twenty… then thirty!"
"Eh, that's what I always say to you guys," I said, squinting at them.
They burst out laughing. "Hahahaha, it's true, Mom!"
"Okay, fineeee. Go get ready first."
"Okay, Mom! We want to go to one of the parks in the city!"
I dragged myself out of bed and got ready. For a moment, I thought about preparing breakfast… but maybe we could just eat outside today. It's been a while since we last had breakfast out—most days, I cook at home.
By the time I stepped out of my room, the kids were already ready. It was 7 a.m.
"You guys really want to go out, huh?" I laughed.
"Of course! Hurry, Mom!"
We headed out and got into a Grab. My car is still at my parents' house in my hometown, and honestly… I've been thinking about getting a new one. A fresh start.
After about 20 minutes, we arrived at the park. It was already crowded with people—families, joggers, elderly couples… everyone enjoying the morning.
We started with some simple stretching before moving on to brisk walking, jogging, and eventually… playing around.
"You two better warm up properly first. Later you'll get cramps."
"Okay, Mom, okay! We're doing it correctly," they replied, trying to act serious.
I shook my head. These kids really know how to talk back.
We spent almost two hours at the park.
And today… was important.
The results for their school placement would be out.
I enrolled them in an international school. I just want to make sure they can adapt well… I don't want them to struggle like I did before.
As we walked towards the Grab pick-up point, they suddenly started making requests.
"Mom, if I do well, I want the cheapest Coach handbag!" – Xia
"Mom, I want Lego!" – Xayden
I raised an eyebrow.
"Okay, I heard you both. I'll get them for you… if you reach your target."
"Okay, Mom! We're confident!" they said proudly.
I gave them a side eye. "We'll see about that."
Just as I was about to book the Grab, my phone buzzed.
An unknown number.
For a moment, I hesitated.
Something about it… made my heart feel uneasy.
I answered the call.
"Hello?"
"Good morning. Is this Ms. Anna?"
"Yes, speaking."
"We're calling from the school regarding your children's placement…"
I held my breath.
"Both of your children have been accepted."
My heart instantly felt lighter.
"Oh—thank you so much!"
But before I could say anything else, the caller continued—
"And… there's something else you should know."
I frowned slightly.
"What is it?"
"There is a parent meeting this afternoon… and it will be attended by all guardians."
A parent meeting.
Today.
I looked down at my kids, who were happily talking about their rewards.
Then back at my phone.
I don't know why…
But suddenly, I had a strange feeling.
Like something… or someone…
Was about to walk back into my life.