As the crisp winter air wrapped around them, and the quiet sounds of the neighborhood, Adam sipped his coffee, letting the warmth seep into his hands, his thoughts wandering.
Steve broke the silence. “I don't know if Elena should participate in the food drive. I still worry about her after what happened during Christmas Eve.”
Adam exhaled softly, his breath visible in the cold. He too worried about her. “I think you should ask her first.”
Before the conversation could continue, the sound of the back door opening drew their attention. Elena stepped out, wrapped in a thick winter coat, her cheeks flushed from the warmth inside.
“There you two are,” she said, her voice light but carrying a hint of curiosity. She walked over, her boots crunching softly on the snow. “What’s going on?”
“Jus
