The Young and the Restless alum Melissa Ordway (Abby Newman) may have stepped back from Genoa City, but her off-screen life is anything but quiet. Since revealing last fall that she was no longer on contract with the long-running CBS soap, Ordway has been embracing a new chapter—one filled with family, fresh projects, and now… a new four-legged friend who’s already stealing hearts.

The actress has been spending her time away from the set in Nashville, enjoying life with her husband, fellow actor Justin Gaston, and their two daughters, Olivia and Sophie. But it was a recent trip to Ohio that gave fans a peek into an even more heartwarming development — the arrival of a brand-new family member.

Ordway took to Instagram to share an update that had fans both swooning and celebrating alongside her: the Gaston-Ordway household has officially expanded with the adoption of an adorable Cavapoo puppy named Levi!

“Meet our new family member — Levi Gaston!” Ordway gushed in a sweet video clip, beaming as she introduced the pup. “I’m proud to report he was perfect on our drive home to Nashville, and he already fits right in. We are completely in love.”

Fans were treated to a behind-the-scenes look at life with Levi through a carousel of candid Instagram snaps that followed. From cozy cuddles with Olivia and Sophie to a precious shot of Justin carrying Levi in a doggy bag (with his tiny head peeking out like a canine celebrity-in-training), the puppy has clearly made himself at home. One frame even showed Levi mingling with the family’s other pets, looking completely content as part of the furry tribe.

The unexpected addition came during a family work trip in Ohio, where Melissa, Justin, and their daughters were involved in a joint project. Though details about the project remain under wraps, Ordway hinted in her video that it was a special experience made even more memorable by bringing Levi into their lives.

Fans of Y&R might still be wondering if Abby Newman will make her way back to the canvas, especially with so much drama unfolding in Genoa City. But for now, it seems Melissa is happily focused on real-life joy — juggling work, motherhood, and puppy love in equal measure.

Her social media updates continue to radiate gratitude and warmth, with followers praising her authenticity and gushing over little Levi’s cuteness overload. While Abby might be off-screen, Melissa’s story continues — filled with love, laughter, and paw prints.