I raised my niece on my own — eight years later, she pointed at a woman in the next beach changing cubicle and whispered, “Aunty, look… she has my mark”

months later, Ruth had a school presentation.

I arrived early, as always. Andy carried the poster board and a chocolate bar he’d smuggled in for Ruth.

Joan arrived after us and stood near the back.

When Ruth’s presentation ended, she scanned the room.

She saw Joan.

I arrived early.

She saw Andy.

Then she ran straight to me.

I caught her in both arms.