Bella's POVTWO YEARS AGO — Italy.“Kiss Mom goodbye,” I said softly, smiling as warmly as I could. I squatted down low so my face was level with Lila’s. Her small arms wrapped tightly around my neck. Her soft baby hair tickled my cheek and carried all the sweet smell of strawberry shampoo. Her warm breath brushed my ear as she hugged me real tight.“Your new hair is pretty,” she whispered, her little voice full of pure joy for her mum.A lump formed in my throat. I hugged her back a second longer, breathing in her innocent, sweet scent. “Thank you, my baby girl.”She pulled away, gave me one last bright smile, and ran toward the daycare door, waving her tiny hand, excited to start her day in Italy in her new school.I waved back until she went inside. The moment she was gone, a hot tear slipped down my cheek. It felt heavy and warm. I wiped it away quickly with the back of my hand, my skin still tingling from her hug.“Let’s go,” I told Felix, my voice steady back again.We entered
Last Updated : 2026-06-03 Read more