It was a pleasant weekend afternoon when the doorbell rang. My mother hurried to answer it, and standing at the door was Misuri.

“Oh, hey there, Misuri. Come in,” my mother greeted her warmly.

Curious, I made my way downstairs, hoping to catch a glimpse of her. The moment I did, she caught me staring from the staircase. Her gaze met mine, and she gave me a warm smile—a smile that effortlessly melted my heart.