Maya's POV
"Rich! When did you arrive?" I asked, unable to stop the wide smile spreading across my face. My heart lifted at the sight of him—familiar, comforting, and always so effortlessly kind.
"I got in late last night," he replied, his voice gentle. "I wanted to drop by, but Mom said I might disturb you. Anyway—" he reached into the backseat and pulled out a large, beautifully wrapped box tied with white satin ribbons, "—congratulations, Valedictorian. You deserve this."
"Thank you, Rich… but you didn't have to get me anything," I said, though I couldn't help but touch the bow, appreciating the care he'd put into it.
He smiled. "I wanted to. Besides, Mom kept asking me to pick you up today. She didn't want you walking to the farm again. She's eager for you to visit the flower garden."
Warmth bloomed in my chest. I always felt welcome in their home, but hearing how much Donya Esmeralda looked forward to seeing me made it even more special.
