After Maya left, the house became quiet again. Anika had gone up to her room, still clutching the big teddy bear Maya had brought her. Mrs. Denovan stood by the window for a moment, watching Maya’s car disappear at the end of the driveway.

 Her husband entered from the kitchen, drying his hands with a dish towel.

 “She’s good with Anika,” he said, sitting casually on the armrest of the couch.

 Mrs. Denovan nodded. “Yes. She’s gentle. Patient too. You can tell she really cares.”

 “She seems to enjoy being around kids,” he added.

 There was a short pause. Mrs. Denovan sat down beside him. “It’s rare to find someone...