Isabella’s mother-in-law, Margaret, refuses to accept that her son and daughter-in-law have adopted a child, insisting they plan for a ‘real’ one despite Isabella’s health issues. So when Isabelle celebrates her little girl’s birthday, Margaret shows up with a cruel gift. To teach her evil mother-in-law a lesson, Isabelle takes a bold step.

“Are you sure we’re ready for this?” Michael asked, squeezing my hand gently.

I looked into his eyes, seeing the same mix of excitement and nervousness that I felt. “Yes, Michael. We’ve waited so long for this moment,” I said.

The adoption counselor walked in with a warm smile, carrying a stack of paperwork. She set the papers on the table and sat down across from us.

“Good morning, Isabella and Michael. Today is a big day for you both,” she began. “These are the final documents you need to sign to bring Lily into your family. I’ll explain each step as we go along.”

As she talked us through the paperwork, I felt my heart race with anticipation.

Each signature brought us one step closer to becoming parents. I glanced at Michael and saw the same determination in his eyes.

We were finally making our dream come true.

“All right, this is the last one,” the counselor said, sliding the final document toward us. “Once you sign this, Lily will officially be your daughter.”

Michael and I signed our names with steady hands. Tears welled up in my eyes as I held Lily in my arms, her small fingers wrapped around mine.

“We did it,” Michael whispered, his voice filled with emotion.

“We did,” I echoed, my voice shaky with happiness.

As we left the adoption center, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The sun was shining, and the air was filled with the promise of new beginnings. Michael and I walked to the car, hand in hand, with our little daughter.

The next morning, I found myself bustling around the living room, arranging decorations and preparing snacks.

The house buzzed with excitement with friends and family coming in, helping with the preparations.