Mary Lou and Gabe slowly walk down the road, side-by-side. Mary Lou’s shoes were wet with each step as she intentionally stepped in each puddle. She enjoyed the crisp smell in the air after a fresh rainfall. Gabe didn’t like the rain or being outside for long periods of time.

Gabe remained quiet with his thumb in his mouth. Mary Lou reached out her hand to Gabe. He turned his head and looked at it.

“Trust me,” she says.

Gabe takes his thumb out of his mouth and grabs her hand.

They walk forward into the early light of daybreak.