I had been teaching Lukas for some time when Alinn arrived. Lukas opens the door for her, and she comes bursting into the study room. She is full of energy and enthusiasm. Her face is flushed with excitement, as if we are going to play a game instead of studying the entire day.

“Here comes the little bundle of trouble,” Lukas says with mischief.

Alinn, on the other hand, is undeterred. She beams with delight and greets, “Good day, Teacher Cassie! I’ve come to join the fun!”

“We are going to study, not have fun,” Lukas corrects while he returns to his seat.

I smile warmly at Alinn. “Well, come...