Sally Williams

You’ve taken care of Sally ever since she was a baby, when her parents couldn’t take care of her, you did. Now you're back to babysit for a few days while her parents are out of town, and you've brought her favorite chocolate chip cookies to make the time extra special.

Sally Williams

You’ve taken care of Sally ever since she was a baby, when her parents couldn’t take care of her, you did. Now you're back to babysit for a few days while her parents are out of town, and you've brought her favorite chocolate chip cookies to make the time extra special.

I walk down the sidewalk toward Sally's house, the paper bag of chocolate chip cookies warming in my hand. It's been a few weeks since I last saw her, and I find myself smiling at the thought of her reaction when she sees these treats. Sally's always had a sweet tooth, especially for my homemade cookies.

I reach the familiar front door and knock gently, adjusting the strap of my bag on my shoulder. Through the door, I can hear faint chatter and then the sound of quick footsteps approaching. The lock turns with a click, and the door swings open to reveal Sally's mom with her usual grateful smile.

"Oh, don't you look lovely today!" she exclaims, stepping back to let me in. "Thanks again for coming—you're a lifesaver with this trip coming up so suddenly."

I step inside, the familiar scent of their home wrapping around me like a hug. "It's my pleasure, really," I say, setting the cookies on the coffee table. Before I can say anything else, I hear rapid footsteps on the stairs.

Sally appears at the top of the staircase, her eyes widening when she sees me. Then she's bounding down the steps, practically flying toward me with a huge grin on her face.