"You sweet girl." Julie engulfs me in a hug. A real one where you hold on tight and don't let go. I hug her back the same and realize I'm already a little in love with Mufasa's mom.

"Let the girl breathe, honey," I hear Mitch say.

"Mind your business," she sasses back at him, making me laugh. She lets me go, her hands coming to my cheeks. "This world has not been kind to you, but you're still as sweet as can be."

I smile back at her, my eyes filling with tears. "Thank you."

"No, thank you." ...