I Bought a Used Washing Machine at a Thrift

She chuckled softly. “Where’s Mom today? Or is it Daddy’s special day out?”

The question always made my chest tighten. I took a breath and decided not to hide it. “No mom. It’s just me and them.”

Her expression softened. “That must be hard.”

I shrugged. “Some days are harder than others. But we’re managing.”

She nodded slowly, her gaze deep with understanding. Then she reached out and touched the stroller. “You’re doing a good job. Don’t forget that.”