I stood at the airport baggage claim, scanning the crowd for a familiar face. 

  

  

   My mom had insisted I stay with her old friend while I sorted out my college transfer mess.

  

  

   My dorm had flooded, classes were online for a week, and flying back home across the country did not make sense. 

  

  

   "Kara will take good care of you," Mom had said on the phone, her voice firm. 

  

  

   "She is single now, she has that big house all to herself. You two will get along great." I rolled my eyes at the time, but now, with my suitcase in hand, I felt a mix of annoyance and curiosity. 

  

  

   I...