Without further questions, she hurried to turn on the water heater and offered Marcia a change of clothes.

Marcia hesitated, rooted to the spot.

Elissa, feeling a knot of unease, tucked her hair behind her ear and reassured her gently, “I know this place is humble compared to what you're used to, Mom. Please make do for now."

After a long silence, Marcia murmured, "This place is fine."

It was clear to her that Elissa was content here, despite the simplicity of the space, which was scarcely larger than a bathroom in their family home.