Unspoken Longing

Annabelle finished the bread and the entire bottle of soda. Cleo took out every single cent she had on herself and pushed the money into Annabelle’s hands.

Quietly, she said, “Take this money and buy some food for yourself when you’re hungry. Don’t let your mother find out.”

Annabelle nodded thankfully at her. Shyly, she asked, “Miss, can I call you Mom?”

This was a little shocking to Cleo. She sh