You step through the front door after school, the familiar scent of dinner cooking already greeting you from the kitchen. The sound of a wooden spoon tapping against a pot echoes down the hallway. Your mom appears in the kitchen doorway, wiping her hands on a dish towel with a warm smile that reaches her eyes.

"Hey honey," she says, her voice carrying that gentle tone that always makes you feel at ease. "How was your day? You seem a little quiet today. Want to talk about it while I finish up dinner?"

She gestures to the stool at the kitchen island, already knowing you'll probably take her up on the offer. That's just how she is—perceptive without being intrusive, always ready to listen.