The soft sunlight filtered through the window, casting a warm glow over the small living room where Ariel had spent countless hours learning to navigate her new life. Now, at just over a year old, she had grown considerably; she could wobble across the floor, her tiny feet moving with newfound confidence. Each step was a victory, a testament to her determination. This morning, however, held a different kind of excitement.

“Today’s the day, Ariel!” Kai called from the hallway, his voice bursting with enthusiasm as he pulled on his shoes. His blue eyes sparkled with anticipation. “I can’t wait to show you my first Pokémon!”

Ariel wobbled toward him, her little hands clapping together in excitement. “Pokémon!” she squealed, the word spilling out with a joyful squeak that made her family chuckle.

Kai knelt down to her level, his face beaming. “You’ll be so proud of me! Mom’s taking me to the river, and I’ll catch a Water-type Pokémon just like you wanted!” His voice bubbled with energy, and Ariel could feel his excitement radiate off him like sunlight.

“Be careful!” she managed to say, her pronunciation still a bit off but filled with genuine concern.

Their mother, Selene, entered the room, her hair tied back in a practical braid. She had been preparing for the trip since early morning, checking the fishing nets and making sure everything was in order. “Are you ready, Kai?” she asked, adjusting the straps of her basket slung over her shoulder.

“Yeah! I’m going to be the best trainer ever!” Kai declared, puffing out his chest in determination.

Selene smiled warmly at him, her eyes reflecting both pride and a hint of worry. “Just remember what we talked about: patience and respect for the Pokémon. They’re not just tools for battles; they’re friends.”

With a playful ruffle of Ariel’s hair, Kai dashed for the door, leaving Ariel behind with her thoughts. She wanted to follow them, to witness the adventure, but her legs were still unsteady, and she was still too young to venture out alone. Instead, she turned her attention to the bustling household, her heart swelling with love as she thought about her family.

Days passed in a flurry of activity as the village prepared for the celebration of Ariel’s first birthday. The air filled with the sweet scent of vanilla and berries; it was as if the entire world was preparing for a grand event. Friends and neighbors began to trickle in, each bringing gifts wrapped in colorful paper, eager to share in the joy of the little girl who had brought so much happiness to their small fishing village.

On the eve of her birthday, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the family gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The warmth of their home wrapped around Ariel like a cozy blanket. She observed her family, each member a vibrant thread in the tapestry of her life.

“I can’t believe she’s turning one already,” Aron said, his voice tinged with nostalgia. “It feels like just yesterday we were bringing her home.”

“Every day has been a blessing,” Selene replied, a soft smile gracing her lips as she looked at Ariel, who was playing with a plush Magikarp. “She’s a little miracle.”

This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

Ariel looked up at her parents, feeling a wave of affection wash over her. She had never experienced such warmth and love in her previous life. She reached out to grab her mother’s hand, her tiny fingers wrapping around it tightly.

“You’re going to love your birthday, Ariel,” Kai said, his excitement contagious. “We’ve got so many games and a huge cake! And I’ll show you my new Pokémon!”

Ariel’s heart fluttered at the thought of her brother’s new adventure. She was filled with anticipation, even if she didn’t quite understand everything yet.

Finally, the day of her birthday arrived, and the household was alive with activity. The smell of baking filled the air, and Ariel could hear her mother humming a cheerful tune as she prepared treats. She watched as balloons were strung up and decorations adorned the walls. This was a celebration, and it made her feel giddy.

As the sun rose high in the sky, friends and family started to arrive. Neighbors brought gifts, each one carefully wrapped in colorful paper, and the sound of laughter echoed around the home. Ariel felt a thrill of happiness, her heart swelling with joy as she looked around at the faces of loved ones.

“Time for cake!” Aron announced, his scruffy beard twitching as he smiled widely. He carefully cut slices and served them, handing a piece to Ariel, who clutched it with both hands, eyes wide with delight. The rich flavor burst in her mouth, sweetness dancing on her tongue.

Surrounded by friends and family, Ariel’s heart felt fuller than it ever had before. This was the first birthday she had ever celebrated, and the sheer joy of it washed over her like the gentle waves of the sea outside. She looked around, taking in the smiles, the laughter, the warmth.

But then, as the festivities continued, a thought struck her—this birthday was particularly meaningful. She had no recollection of ever having a birthday in her past life, where loneliness had overshadowed every moment. The realization settled in her chest, bittersweet and heavy.

Suddenly, overwhelmed by a wave of emotion, tears began to brim in her eyes. She had never had this before—the joy of being celebrated, of being loved.

“Hey, little one, what’s wrong?” Kai asked, concern etching his features as he crouched beside her. “It’s your birthday! You’re supposed to be happy!”

Ariel shook her head, unable to articulate her feelings. Instead, she began to cry, her small body shaking as she felt the weight of everything.

Selene quickly moved to her side, wrapping her arms around her daughter. “Oh, sweet girl,” she whispered, her voice soft and soothing. “You have every reason to celebrate today. You’re surrounded by people who love you.”

Aron joined them, ruffling Ariel’s hair, while Kai held her hand tightly. “And you’re going to have so many more birthdays with us! We’ll celebrate every year!” he promised, his voice full of enthusiasm.

As the family rallied around her, sharing jokes and laughter, Ariel felt the tears begin to subside. With a tiny sniffle, she managed to smile again.

“Happy…” she started, stumbling over her words but feeling the love wash over her. “Happy…”

“Happy birthday!” the family cheered, their voices harmonizing in a chorus of love and connection.

Finally, when the laughter and joy seemed to lift the weight from her heart, they decided it was time for a photo to capture the moment. Selene positioned everyone, her arms around Kai and Aron, with Ariel in the center, flanked by their Pokémon—Pelipper, Sharpedo, Golduck, and Mantine.

“Say ‘Cheese!’” Selene prompted, and as the camera clicked, Ariel felt the warmth of the moment solidify in her heart. She might have tear-streaked cheeks, but those tears were a testament to her journey—a blend of joy and bittersweet memories.

“Cheese!” the family echoed, their voices filled with happiness and love.

As the photo captured their smiles, Ariel realized that in this life, surrounded by family, she was truly living for the first time.