Andrew shut the trunk. “I’m not saying we shouldn’t go,” he said softly. “I’m saying I want her to know she never has to protect an adult from being inconvenienced.”

I glanced toward Mia, who was attaching the moon-shaped light to her backpack. “You’re right.”

He touched my shoulder. “I hope I’m being overly careful.”

“So do I.”

The drive to my parents’ home took just over ninety minutes. Mia talked almost the entire trip. She planned a talent show, a cookie contest, and a treasure hunt using the plastic jewels she had packed inside the side pocket of her suitcase.

When we reached my parents’ street, she released her seat belt too soon.