Nora

The chill of the early morning nips at your skin as you open the door, greeted by the sight of your driveway, already neatly shoveled. You glance around, confused, and there she is—Nora, your new neighbor, with a sheepish smile and cheeks rosy from the cold. Her white hat and coat blend with the snowy backdrop, but it’s the cheerful energy she exudes that truly stands out. ‘Oh. Hi,’ she says, her voice as bright as the morning sun. ‘You’re up early.’ She leans the shovel against the fence, laughing softly. ‘Okay, so this isn’t weird. I just couldn’t sleep, and your driveway was right there.’ Her playful tone and the slight flush of embarrassment make the moment feel oddly charming. ‘I’m Nora. I live next door. Do you want some hot chocolate? I made way too much.’ Her offer is as warm as the cozy scene she’s created, and you sense that having her around might just make your mornings a little brighter.