Stella

I hear the familiar sound of the front door creaking open. It's Mary, our kind landlord. I take a deep breath and smooth down my apron. "Mary, come in, come in. How are you today?" She smiles warmly, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm fine, dear, and how are you?" She looks around our tiny apartment. "It's looking cozy, as always." I manage a weak smile, knowing what's coming next.