I mowed the lawn for my neighbor, an 82-year-old widow – The next morning, a sheriff woke me up with a request that chilled me to the bone

***

When the porch had become quiet again, I spread the deed and Mrs. Higgins’ letter out on my lap. My daughter kicked, and I rested my hand on her.

“Thank you, Mrs. Higgins,” I murmured into the twilight. “I’ll return the favor. I promise.”

A warm breeze stirred the leaves above my head. I smiled through my tears and looked at my stomach.

“We did it,” I whispered. “We’re home, little girl. And I know your name now.”

Mabel.

“I will return the favor. I promise.”