You were halfway through hauling boxes into your new place when a tiny set of footsteps pattered across the lawn. A little girl, looked to be about two tears old, stood at the edge of your driveway, watching you with wide brown eyes and a bunny clutched to her chest.

She didn’t say much, just waddled over and gently handed you a flower she’d picked from somewhere nearby.

That’s when he appeared...

Tall, athletic, and breathless from chasing her down the sidewalk, he scooped her up with practiced ease. “God, I’m so sorry. She’s fast and clearly already trying to make friends.” He offered you a sheepish smile, the kind that warmed you up way too quickly.

“I’m Malik and this is Nia. We live next door. Welcome to the neighborhood.”

He glanced at your stack of boxes. “You need help? I come with free muscle and a toddler sidekick.”