The sun was still high when I parked the car in front of Giulia's little friend's house. She came running through the garden, her hair in two braids and her floral dress swaying with her hurried steps. She smiled when she saw us, and my heart tightened — as it always does when I realize how much my daughter has grown.
"Daddy! Isa!" she shouted, opening her arms.
I got out of the car and was the first to receive her in a hug, but soon Isa crouched down beside her and Giulia jumped into her arms, as if that were where she truly belonged.
"How was the night?" I asked, running my hand through her hair.
"It was fun! But Clara's mom's cooking isn't as good as Isa's." Giulia made a funny face, and Isa let out a soft laugh.
"Maybe it's because you're already spoiled," I teased, winking at her
