As they strolled along the tree-lined street, a group of children’s laughter rang out from a nearby park. For a brief moment, both women paused to watch—smiling faintly at the uninhibited joy, though their thoughts drifted elsewhere. Azita’s chest tightened at Mahsa’s honesty. It reminded her of Jamilah—of her strength and sacrifices, many of which she only came to understand as an adult.
