Isla’s POV
I arrived at Sade’s house a little after seven, the familiar brick home glowing warmly in the evening light. Before I could knock, the door swung open, and Melody, Sade’s mom, stood there, her arms already outstretched. She pulled me into a tight hug, holding on longer than usual.
“Oh, Isla, I’ve missed you so much,” she said, her voice thick with emotion.
I felt my chest tighten. I’d missed them, too. Sade’s house had always been a safe space for me, a second home, and Melody always made me feel welcome. Tears welled up in my eyes as I hugged her back.
“I missed you too, Ms. Melody,” I said, my voice trembling.
Melody gently cupped my face and smiled. “You’re always welcome here, sweetheart. Always. You know that, right?”
I nodded, my tears slipping free, and she gave me
