After moving to a new town for a fresh start, I found myself at odds with my neighbor, Catherine. She constantly complained and even stole my Halloween decorations. Heartbroken, I set up a camera to catch her in the act.

One night, I was awakened by noises outside. Rushing to check, I discovered all my decorations were gone—again. I replayed the footage, only to find a boy, no older than 12, taking my things. Confused, I followed him to an old, abandoned house.

Inside, I found him and a trembling little girl, surrounded by my decorations. “Please don’t call the police!” he pleaded. “We ran away from our foster parents.” My heart sank. These kids were scared and alone.

I introduced myself as Maeve and decided to help them. After getting to know David and his sister Nicole, I learned they had run away because of their abusive foster home. I filed for temporary custody, and as days passed, they began to flourish in my care.

On Halloween, two police officers knocked at my door, alerted by Catherine’s complaints. I explained it was just a scary movie for the kids. When they asked if they were mine, I instinctively said yes.

That moment felt right. I applied to adopt David and Nicole, finally realizing my dream of motherhood. No more holidays alone—my life was filled with laughter, love, and the warmth of family. I was finally a mom.