Richard nervously adjusted his tie in the mirror. Today was a significant day—he was finally going to be introduced to Mariam's family, Leah's friend.

He had met Mariam briefly before but not her grandmother and Mrs. Adams, as Leah addressed them. This was the first time he'd spend a day with the family that took her in after the crisis years ago. He wanted to appreciate them himself.

Leah came up behind him, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "You look perfect, Richard. There's ...