Penelope had arranged the assignment herself.

Their conversation was awkward at first, then unexpectedly lively.

They disagreed about whether photographs could explain scientific research as well as graphs.

Watching the three girls argue cheerfully over sandwiches, I experienced a feeling I did not dare name aloud.

They were not becoming an instant family.

They were discovering that they could coexist without carrying the guilt of the adults who had failed them.

When the lunch ended, Penelope suggested photographing the research kits for the school’s website.