Chapter 43

Uncle Mike couldn't help but grin as he placed a steaming casserole dish on the table. "I can't wait to hold that little bundle of joy. It's been a while since we had a baby in this house."

Aunt Daisy nodded, her eyes shining with maternal affection. "And I'm looking forward to seeing Maiari step into this new role. She's going to be an incredible mother."

Marissa, who was folding cloth napkins into neat triangles, looked up and said, "Maiari has always had a way with kids. Remember how she used to make those sandcastles with the neighborhood children?"

Jasmine chuckled at the memory. "Yes, and she was the one who would organize all our games during summer vacations. She's a natural caretaker."

Their conversation was filled with laughter and fond reminiscing as they continued to prepare the table. The warm bonds of friendship and family were evident in every gesture, in every shared smile.

As they put the finishing touches on their preparations, they couldn't help but feel a sense of