Safety Nets in a Chaotic World

Val looked out of the window and saw a taxi driving into her compound. She saw two women get out and walk up to her house, and she felt her heart being washed in joy. They had come to be here and support her after she had broken down during one of their video chats. She couldn't wait to hug and talk with them. How long ago had they met? They had promised to always meet at least once monthly, but life had other plans for them. But finally, they had made it. 

Happily, she moved from the window towards the door and anxiously waited for them to get to her floor.

"It's been forever since I saw you," Monique said, hugging Val. Tracy had to tap Val's shoulder for her to move from Monique's embrace.

"You look so amazing," Tracy told Val, and they hugged.

"You don't look bad either. Come on in," Val asked the two.

"This place is just as beautiful as I can remember it. Perhaps, even more beautiful," Monique said, laughing.