The Neighbor

Chapter 61

The crispness of early September is in the air, signaling the start of a new season. The sun filters through the curtains, casting a soft, golden light across the room. Outside, the world is beginning to stir with the energy of the morning rush, but inside your home, a sense of peace and warmth lingers.

Wanda has just returned from dropping the boys off at school for their first day of sixth grade. It's a milestone, and she couldn't help but feel a mix of pride and bittersweet nostalgia as she watched them walk into the school building, backpacks slung over their shoulders, ready to take on the world. But now, as she steps through the front door, her thoughts turn back to the other part of her heart waiting for her at home.

The sound of Isabella's joyful gurgles greets her as she walks down the hallway toward your bedroom. Wanda's pace slows, a soft smile tugging at her lips as she nears the open door. She leans casually against the doorframe, her heart swelling at the sight before her.

Isabella is nestled comfortably in her baby chair, her little legs kicking excitedly as she coos and babbles, her eyes wide with delight. Her tiny fists open and close as she tries to grab at the soft toys hanging above her, completely absorbed in her play.

You're standing in front of the full length mirror, adjusting your outfit, but your attention is clearly focused on your daughter. Your hair falls softly around your shoulders, still damp from your morning shower, and you're dressed in a casual yet elegant outfit that reflects the comfort and confidence of a woman who has embraced motherhood fully.

As you straighten the fabric of your dress, you catch Isabella's gaze in the mirror andimmediately start talking to her in that special, lilting baby voice that always makes her giggle. "Who's momma's sweet girl? Are you excited to go to your grandparents? Yes, you are! Look at those big smiles! You're just the happiest little bean, aren't you?"

Isabella responds with another gurgle, her legs kicking with renewed energy, as if she understands every word you're saying. The sight of her reflection in the mirror, combined with the sound of your voice, seems to fill her with pure, unfiltered joy.

As you watch her, a wave of memories from the past two months floods your mind moments of joy, exhaustion, and everything in between. The arrival of Isabella has brought so much love into your life, and with it, a deeper connection to the people who mean the most to you.

Two Months Earlier...

It was just a few days after you brought Isabella home when Natasha, Maria, and Yelena came by to meet the newest member of your family. The day was sunny, full of promise, and you could sense the excitement buzzing through the house as Wanda helped you get ready for their visit.

The doorbell rang, and Wanda answered it with a warm smile, welcoming them into your home.

Natasha entered first, her eyes immediately softening as they landed on Isabella, who was cradled in your arms. Maria was right behind her, her smile gentle and full of affection, while Yelena, as always, had a mischievous grin on her face.

"Bubs!" Yelena called out as she walked in, her tone teasing. "So this is what all the fuss is about, huh? Let me see this tiny human you've been hiding."

You couldn't help but laugh at Yelena's wit, her playful attitude a constant source of light in your life. "Lena," you said, smiling. "Be nice. She's only a few days old, you know."

Yelena rolled her eyes, though there was nothing but love in her gaze as she leaned over to peek at Isabella. "Nice? I'm always nice," she quipped, though her voice softened when she finally got a good look at the baby. "Well, look at that. She's even cuter than I imagined. Almost makes up for you hogging all the attention, bubs."