Lila, a curious five-year-old with bouncing curls, sits on the couch hugging her favorite teddy bear. Her parents are beside her, smiling warmly. Lila’s eyes dart between them, wondering about the surprise they promised.
"Is the surprise a puppy?"
Her mother chuckles, shaking her head, and her father leans in closer.
Mom holds out the black-and-white image.
"Lila, you’re going to be a big sister. There’s a baby growing in my tummy."
Lila's mouth forms a perfect “O” of surprise, and she clutches her teddy closer.
"A baby? In there? Will they like teddy bears too?"
Lila carefully matches little socks, her brow furrowed in concentration.
"Babies must get cold feet too," she says, placing the socks in a drawer.
Mom smiles, resting a hand on her growing belly.
"They do. And you’re already helping so much, Lila."
Dad scoops Lila into a big hug.
"It’s time, Lila! The baby is coming. Grandma’s here to stay with you while we go to the hospital."
Lila’s heart pounds with excitement and nerves as she squeezes her teddy and waves goodbye, the night filled with new possibilities.
Lila tiptoes to the bedside, her eyes wide with wonder as she gazes at the newborn.
"Come meet your little brother, Max," Mom whispers.
Lila gently touches Max’s tiny fingers, feeling a mix of joy and responsibility.
"Hi Max. I’m your big sister. I’ll help take care of you."
Lila watches over her brother, occasionally glancing at her parents for reassurance. She helps fetch diapers and makes silly faces to soothe Max when he cries.
"Sometimes being a big sister is hard, but I love Max already," she confides to her teddy bear.
Mom kneels beside her, hugging her close.
"You’re a wonderful big sister, Lila. Max is lucky to have you."
Lila beams, feeling proud and loved in this new adventure as an older sibling.
