My Girl ~ Alessia Russo

Visits

Hailey stepped off the train at King's Cross Station, carefully cradling five-month-old Eleanor against her chest. The bustling energy of London was a stark contrast to the quiet, familiar world of home. Eleanor, with her big, curious eyes, gazed around at the bright lights and noisy surroundings, her tiny fingers gripping Hailey's shirt tightly.

"Welcome to London, baby girl," Hailey whispered, planting a soft kiss on Eleanor's head.

As she moved through the crowd, her heart began to race with anticipation. It had been weeks of phone calls and messages, but now, she was finally about to see Alessia again. The thought of spending time together in person filled Hailey with a warmth she hadn't felt in a long time.

Stepping out of the station, Hailey's eyes quickly found Alessia waiting just outside, her tall figure unmistakable even among the throngs of people. The moment Alessia spotted them, her face lit up with a smile that sent a wave of comfort washing over Hailey.

"Hailey! Over here!" Alessia called out, waving enthusiastically.

"Hey, Less!" Hailey grinned, hurrying over to her. As soon as she reached her, Alessia wrapped them both in a warm, gentle hug, making sure to avoid squishing Eleanor.

"It's so good to see you," Alessia murmured, pulling back slightly to look at Eleanor, who was staring up at her with wide, inquisitive eyes. "And who's this beautiful little girl? You've grown so much, haven't you, Eleanor?"

Eleanor responded with a soft coo, her tiny feet kicking in excitement as Alessia lightly tickled her belly.

"She's getting so big already," Hailey said, her voice filled with affection. "I can hardly believe she's five months old."

"Time flies, doesn't it?" Alessia said warmly. "Come on, let's get you two settled. We've got a fun day planned."

---

After checking into their hotel and taking a moment to freshen up, Hailey and Alessia set off for the day's adventure-a visit to the zoo. Alessia had suggested it as a way to make Eleanor's first trip to London special, and Hailey had eagerly agreed. With Eleanor comfortably nestled in her pram, they began their exploration.

The zoo was alive with families and excited children, and Hailey couldn't help but feel a deep sense of contentment as they wandered from one exhibit to the next. The air was crisp, but the sun peeked through the clouds just enough to keep the day pleasantly warm.

As they approached the giraffe enclosure, Hailey crouched down beside Eleanor's pram and pointed up at the tall, graceful animals. "Look, Eleanor! Aren't they amazing?"

Eleanor's wide eyes followed her mum's finger, her little mouth forming a perfect 'O' of awe.

"She's absolutely captivated," Alessia said softly, crouching down next to Hailey. "I think we've got a future little explorer on our hands."

Hailey smiled, brushing a gentle hand over Eleanor's soft hair. "She's definitely curious," she agreed. "Just like her mum."

They continued their tour of the zoo, stopping to point out different animals to Eleanor. The day felt light and easy, a joyful escape from the routine of everyday life. Every so often, Eleanor would look up at Alessia with a gaze full of pure adoration, her little face lighting up whenever Alessia spoke to her.

As they reached the gift shop near the end of their visit, Alessia suddenly lit up with an idea. "Hold on, I've got to get something for Eleanor."

Hailey watched with amusement as Alessia disappeared into the shop. A few minutes later, she emerged, holding a soft, plush stuffed monkey with a delighted grin on her face.