I left the building with a big smile on my face. I had done it. I was finally part of the cooking class. I felt proud and excited at the same time. My steps were light as I walked outside. But then I stopped.

To my surprise, Mrs. Doris was still there. She stood beside her black car, dressed neatly as always, with her hands crossed over her purse.

“Faye,” she called gently.

I looked at her. “Yes, ma’am?”

She gave a small smile. “Would you like to join me for a cup of coffee? I would like to talk.”

I didn’t know what she wanted to say, but I...