Essel’s Pov My stepmother and I enjoyed a delightful shopping experience together. We engaged in conversation, and to my surprise, it was not uncomfortable at all. I regret not having done this sooner. She assisted me in selecting a Halloween costume along with several other clothing items, and by the time we concluded our shopping, I felt both fatigued and hungry. Sarah suggested that we dine at the food court in the mall. Consequently, we found ourselves sharing a table with hamburgers and fries laid out before us. "I am truly pleased that we went shopping together, Sarah," I remarked to her after we had finished our meal. She turned towards me and offered a smile. "I feel the same way. It has been wonderful getting to know you better." "Indeed," I chuckled. "I wish we had done this

