“Hi,” Amara greeted, her voice barely above a whisper. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she was still that invisible little girl, despite what had happened.

Richard managed a small smile. His voice was hoarse but steady. “Thank you,” he said, his words heavy with sincerity. “You saved my life, and I owe you more than I can express.”

Amara shifted awkwardly, not knowing what to say. “I just did what anyone would do,” she replied modestly, her gaze dropping to her frayed sneakers.