A Tummy Full and a New Friend

Lily and Tom tumbled out of the car, their little legs practically vibrating with excitement. Nana’s house, with its cheerful yellow shutters and the scent of something impossibly delicious wafting from the open kitchen window, was their favorite place in the whole world. Nana, a vision in her floral apron, was already on the porch, her arms outstretched like welcoming branches.

“My darlings!” she boomed, her voice warm as a sunbeam. Lily, always the first to dive into a hug, launched herself into Nana’s embrace, burying her face in the soft fabric of her apron. Tom, a little more reserved but no less eager, followed close behind, his small hand finding Nana’s as she pulled them both inside.

The kitchen was a wonderland of smells and sights. A golden-brown roasted chicken sat cooling on the counter, surrounded by fluffy mashed potatoes and glistening green beans. Nana’s famous apple pie, its crust a perfect swirl of golden pastry, beckoned from the windowsill. Lily’s eyes widened. Her tummy rumbled in anticipation.

“Oh, Nana,” she sighed, already feeling a happy warmth spread through her. “It all smells so good!”

Nana chuckled, her eyes twinkling. “Well, my little ones, I’ve made a few of your favorites. Let’s get settled and then we shall feast!”

After washing their hands, Lily and Tom were ushered to the big wooden table, set with bright, cheerful plates. Nana served them generous portions, and Lily, true to her nature, ate with gusto. The chicken was tender, the potatoes creamy, and the beans perfectly seasoned. She savored every single bite, her tongue practically dancing with delight. Tom, though he ate with enthusiasm, wasn’t quite as voracious as his sister.

“More, Nana, please!” Lily pleaded, pushing her plate forward after she’d already finished her first serving and a good portion of her second. Nana obliged, her smile gentle. Lily continued to eat, her little tummy growing steadily rounder. By the time Nana brought out the apple pie, Lily felt a strange, sloshy fullness that wasn’t quite comfortable. She managed a few bites of the warm, sweet pie, but soon, a distinct ache began to throb just below her ribs.

She shifted in her chair, a small frown creasing her brow. “Nana,” she whispered, “my tummy feels… funny.”

Nana’s brow furrowed with concern. She gently placed a hand on Lily’s forehead. “No fever, my dear. Tell me, how much did you eat?”

Lily looked down at her plate, then at her still-full cup of milk. She mumbled, “A lot. It was just