Ivy Collins clasped Elder Mr. Birch’s trembling hand, feeling a gentle nudge from behind urging her forward.

Stepping out of the car, she stood before the crowd and said softly, “Grandpa, I’m home.”

Elder Mr. Birch, who had always prided himself on his stoic demeanor, couldn’t hold back his emotions. His lips trembled as he instantly let go of his cane, leaning most of his weight on the hand that Ivy held. His voice, fraught with emotion, came out in a ...