Jeff was so thrilled that he forgot to maintain his usual gentlemanly demeanor, and his voice trembled as he spoke.

Alena's face was flushed red with excitement. She and Jeff each held one of Maria's hands as if carefully cradling a priceless treasure.

“Miss Jenkins... Or should I say Bryanna? We really don't know how to thank you..." Alena's voice quivered with emotion as she spoke.

“There's no need to be so polite. As I said, we're old friends." Maria smiled warmly at them, like a gentle spring breeze.

It was only then that Alena and Jeff realized how fitting it was for Maria to call Jeff an old friend.