When my new neighbors moved in, their young daughter, Lily, often played alone. One day, I found her near the street and stayed with her until her mother appeared, inviting me for tea the next day. But when I returned, I found Lily abandoned with a heartbreaking note: “She’s yours if you want her.”

I took her in, unsure of what to do. When my husband, Samuel, saw Lily, he was furious. “We agreed—no children!” he yelled, revealing he’d never wanted kids. I couldn’t leave Lily behind, so I packed my things and left with her.

We spent the night at my office, where I worked as a teacher, while I began the adoption process. Things got complicated until I learned Lily’s biological parents had left her an inheritance: the house next door. Her foster parents had only cared for the money but realized Lily deserved better, leaving her in my care.

Lily and I moved into the house and created a loving home. Samuel, lonely and remorseful, started helping us, eventually seeking redemption. Though it took time, we began to rebuild our relationship.

Lily, finally safe and loved, called me “Mommy,” and my heart swelled with joy.