I PAID FOR A STRANGER’S GROCERIES TWO YEARS AGO—AND TODAY, I GOT THIS IN THE MAIL It came with no return address. Just my name, written neatly on the front of the envelope in handwriting I didn’t recognize.

The handwriting at the bottom didn’t match the top. It was from a child.

Written in shaky pencil was:

“My mamá said you are why I want to help people now. I hope I can find you again before I leave.”

No explanation.

Before they leave where?

I flipped the envelope over.

And saw something that made my breath catch in my throat

It came with no return address. Just my name, written neatly on the front of the envelope in handwriting I didn’t recognize.

Inside was a folded note and a twenty-dollar bill, held in place with a single strip of clear tape.

The letter started with:

“Miss Emily,
You may not remember us…”

And honestly, I didn’t. Not at first.