Paige Miller walked slowly along the quiet cobblestone street of a small town in Texas called San Marcos, while the harsh midday sun pressed down on her shoulders without earning much of her attention. She wore a faded sweater, dusty sneakers, and carried an old backpack, and it had been twenty three long years since she had last stood on that same street after sacrificing everything to build a future for others.
She stopped in front of the large house at 118 Oakridge Avenue, which stood out as the most beautiful property in the neighborhood with fresh paint, wide windows, and a polished iron gate that reflected comfort and wealth. Every inch of that house had been paid for with the money she earned working endless hours cleaning homes, offices, and restrooms across the country.
Paige swallowed hard, feeling her throat tighten as she raised her hand and knocked on the door.