The warm, chocolatey smell filled the kitchen. Emma’s eyes widened as Olivia placed a cookie on a plate. 

“Can I have it now?” Emma asked, reaching eagerly. Olivia smiled. “Let’s wait five minutes. 

The cookie will taste even better!” She turned the timer over, and the sand began to fall. Emma fidgeted, watching the seconds crawl. She glanced at the cookie, then at Olivia, who hummed and waited calmly. 

When the timer dinged, Emma’s grin stretched wide. She bit into the cookie and beamed. “You were right, Mommy. It is better!” Olivia winked. “Good things come to those who wait.”