CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THREE - The Town of Shadows and Light

The next day, Nia was jolted from her listless TV watching by another knock. She considered ignoring it, but curiosity got the better of her. When she opened the door, Melissa stood there again, this time with a plate of cookies. "Good afternoon, Nia! I hope you don't mind me stopping by again. I had some extra chocolate chip cookies from my baking this morning and thought you might enjoy them." Before Nia could formulate a polite refusal, Melissa launched into a story about the town's annual baking contest. Despite herself, Nia found herself listening, amused by Melissa's animated retelling of a disastrous attempt at a soufflé. Over the next few days, Melissa's visits became a regular occurrence. Each time, she brought a different treat - blueberry muffins, a thermos of homemade soup, even a small potted plant for Nia's bare windowsill. Gradually, almost imperceptibly, Nia's defenses began to lower. One afternoon, Nia found herself inviting Melissa in for a cup of tea. They sat in