**Chapter 48: Adjusting to the New Normal**

As they finished lunch, Ellie-Mae looked around the table at her family, feeling grateful to be a part of this new chapter in their lives. She couldn't believe how quickly she had bonded with Mya, and she was excited to spend more time with her little sister. Jacquie smiled at her, seeming to sense her thoughts. "We're so glad you're here, sweetie," she said. "We're still figuring things out, but it's been really helpful having you around." Noah nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we've been trying to get into a routine, but it's not always easy. Mya can be a bit of a handful sometimes." Ellie-Mae laughed. "I can imagine," she said. "But I'm happy to help out in any way I can." As they cleared the table and started to clean up, Ellie-Mae couldn't help but notice the chaos that still lingered in the house. There were boxes and baby gear scattered everywhere, and she could tell that Jacquie and Noah were still trying to get everything organized. "Hey, can I help with that?" she asked, nodding towards the mess. Jacquie smiled, looking relieved. "That would be a huge help, actually. We've been meaning to get started on organizing everything, but it's been hard to find the time." Ellie-Mae nodded, and together the three of them set to work tackling the clutter. As they worked, Ellie-Mae couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over her. She remembered helping her mom with household chores when she was younger, and it felt good to be contributing again. She glanced over at Jacquie and Noah, who were working together seamlessly. It was clear that they were still adjusting to their new roles as parents, but they were doing a great job. As the afternoon wore on, the house started to look more organized, and Ellie-Mae felt a sense of satisfaction. She was happy to be a part of this new chapter in her family's life, and she was excited to see what the future held. As they took a break to rest and recharge, Ellie-Mae curled up on the couch with Mya, who was sleeping peacefully in her car seat. Jacquie and Noah sat down beside them, looking exhausted but happy. "We're really glad you're here, Ellie-Mae," Jacquie said, putting a hand on her shoulder. "You're going to be a big help to us." Ellie-Mae smiled, feeling grateful to be a part of this new dynamic. She knew that it wouldn't always be easy, but she was ready to do her part and support her family in any way she could. As they sat there in comfortable silence, Ellie-Mae couldn't help but think about her own future. She was still in high school, and she knew that she had a lot to learn and experience before she was ready to take on the world. But for now, she was happy to be at home with her family, enjoying this new chapter in their lives.