2/ THEY ESCORTED US OUT OF THE HOSPITAL, BUT NOT FOR THE REASON YOU THINK

That envelope changed everything. Derek, who I believed lost to time and pride, had been quietly watching over us. Inside was a house key, a letter, and a note: “This isn’t charity. This is family.” He had bought a house years ago—just in case. That house was now ours, waiting with open arms and soft sheets. As Callie settled into bed that night, whispering if this was our new home, I could finally say yes. Slowly, life began again.

Derek visited, Callie laughed, and I found part-time work at a bookstore. We had lemonade with Mrs. Harper, sunsets on the porch, and peace we thought we’d never taste again. If you’re carrying the world alone—stop. Let someone in. And if you can help someone, don’t wait. Sometimes, all it takes is one envelope to lead someone home.