Elena stepped through the front door, her heart swelling as she took in the sight before her. The house was decorated modestly, with soft fairy lights twinkling along the walls and a "Welcome Home" banner hanging above the dining table. The faint hum of conversation and laughter filled the air, and as soon as she entered, everyone turned to greet her with warm smiles and cheers.
“Surprise!” Maria beamed, rushing forward to envelop Elena in a careful but tight hug. “You’re finally home!”
Elena laughed softly, though her emotions threatened to overwhelm her. “It’s good to be back,” she murmured, hugging Maria back. Her eyes swept over the room, taking in the familiar faces—her mother, standing by the kitchen with a plate of snacks; Steve, already halfway through a slice of cake; and her Lu
