Chapter 145: A Day to Remember
By noon, most of the children’s cheeks were flushed with excitement, their clothes slightly rumpled from play, and their eyes sparkling with unfiltered joy. Laughter still echoed faintly through the PlayZone, but energy levels had clearly dipped.
"Miss Cooper! I’m hungry! Is it lunchtime yet?" Klein called out, panting and clutching his stomach dramatically.
"Yes, and you all certainly earned it," Miss Cooper replied with a warm smile. "Let’s head up to the Cloud Suite."
The Cloud Suite was nothing short of magical... a private party room perched above the main play arena, painted in soft whites and sky blues, giving the illusion of dining among clouds. Hanging star-shaped lights twinkled softly overhead, while long child-sized tables were already set with paper placemats printed with cheerful doodles, rainbow-colored cutlery, and personalized water bottles bearing each child’s name.
The children rushed in, still buzzing with post-play adrenaline, but the instant the warm scent of food reached their noses, the chatter subsided and tiny feet slowed.
"Pizza!" squealed Tamara, skipping toward the table with outstretched arms.
"And chips! And nuggets!" Henry gasped, his eyes gleaming with glee as he pointed to each item like he’d struck gold.
A cheerful announcement echoed gently from the speakers:
"Welcome, HMIS! Please enjoy your lunch... freshly prepared just for you. Don’t forget to hydrate after play!"
Mothers guided their children into seats, adjusting napkins, straightening sleeves, and pouring out juice with practiced care. The kids’ menu was a guaranteed hit: margherita pizza slices with bubbling cheese, crispy chicken nuggets, crinkle-cut fries dusted with paprika, soft mini veggie burgers, fresh apple slices, and vibrant cupcakes topped with blue frosting and shimmering sugar stars.
The room soon filled with the sounds of munching, chatting, and happy sighs.