Alina stepped back into the house, shutting the door gently behind her. She inhaled, calming her nerves. Her eyes trailed toward the couch where Mandy sat, cheerfully eating the food she had brought.

The moment Mandy saw her, her face lit up. “You’re back! Come sit,” she said, patting the spot beside her.

Alina gave a small smile and walked over, sitting down next to her.

“This dish right here,” Mandy said with her mouth still half full, “might be my favorite yet. What ...