Avanya stood outside her daughter's room, her hand hovering near the door, unwilling to knock just yet. The hallway was dim, the flickering glow of a distant nightlight casting shifting shadows along the walls. She knew this conversation wouldn't be easy—her words that morning had hurt Sumaya, and no amount of pretending could erase that. But she had to fix it. Tonight.
Drawing in a slow, shaky breath, she finally knocked. "Can I come in, sweetheart?" Her voice was soft, hesitant, as if afraid of being turned away.
Inside, Sumaya, already nestled under her blankets, stirred at the unexpected intrusion. Her pulse quickened. Why was her mother here so late? Was it about what she had accidentally let slip at dinner?
She cleared her throat, trying to sound composed. "I'm coming, Mom! Just… give me a second."
