Ninety Nine

"She’s growing up so fast. It feels like just yesterday she learned how to roll over." Ben chuckled from his rocking chair, watching Selena with pride. "She’s brought us a joy we never expected. Irene would be so happy to see us all together like this."

Isabella fell silent for a moment, reflecting on Irene with mixed emotions. Though the pain of her loss lingered, she felt that life was slowly returning to normal. They had been through so much, and now it was time to move forward.

As the room filled with warmth and light-hearted conversation, the sound of a car pulling up in the front yard caught Isabella’s attention. Curious, she stood and peeked out the window. A smile spread across her face—it was Nicholas.

Nicholas stepped out of the car, carrying a large box.

"Hey," he greeted cheerfully as he made his way to the door. "I brought something for Selena."

Isabella opened the door and welcomed him with a warm smile. "You really can’t visit without bringing gifts, can you?" she tease