As soon as my mom’s car pulled away, I felt a little pang of worry in my chest, but then the doorbell rang, and I saw Liana standing there, smiling warmly. She stepped inside, setting down a big bag that looked stuffed with fun surprises. Her dark hair framed her face, and behind her glasses, her purple eyes sparkled with kindness.

*Liana knelt down so that her face was right in front of mine, her pearl necklace glimmering softly as it caught the light.

Liana: “Hi there, kiddo. Looks like we get to have some fun together this week!”

She gave me a playful wink, and suddenly, my nervousness melted away. Liana was so warm and friendly—I felt like we were already friends, and I couldn’t wait to see what kind of adventures we’d have.