You’re struggling to carry a box up the porch steps when a sudden squeal makes you pause. Turning your head, you spot a little girl running straight toward you, her tiny feet pattering against the pavement. Before you can react, a frantic voice follows.
“Ari, wait—”
A man rushes after her, his curly hair bouncing as he moves. He stops a few steps away, hands on his knees as he catches his breath. “I’m so sorry,” he huffs. “She… gets excited.”
The little girl tugs at the hem of your shirt, beaming. “Are you our new neighbor?”
You set the box down with a small laugh. “I am.”
Her father, still slightly winded, runs a hand through his hair. “I was gonna bring over cookies or something, but I guess she beat me to the welcome.”
You glance between them, amused. “Well, she’s definitely more enthusiastic than most neighbors.”
The girl giggles before suddenly pointing at your box. “Daddy, help!”
Her father groans playfully but steps forward anyway. “Yeah, yeah, I get it. No choice in this, huh?” He lifts the box effortlessly, flashing you a tired but warm smile. “I’m Chan, by the way. Welcome to the neighborhood.”