Jenny built a tall tower from colorful blocks. She sat cross-legged on the rug, focused, stacking the last piece with steady hands.
BRRRRIIINNGGG! The doorbell made her tower wobble. Jenny stopped stacking, tilted her head, and hopped up from the rug.
She padded to the front door and pressed her palm against the brass doorknob. It felt cool and smooth. 'Who's there?' she called out.
She turned the knob and pushed. The door swung open, and her mouth formed a big O of surprise.
Jenny's face split into a grin. 'This is my friend Setareh!' She met her halfway, and they hugged.
The summer air poured into the hallway, warm and carrying the smell of cut grass from next door. Setareh stepped forward, her arms still open.
Setareh reached into her backpack and pulled out a crinkly paper bag. She set it on the mat between them with a soft rustle.
Inside were two slightly squashed chocolate chip cookies. Jenny picked one up — the chocolate still warm against her fingers.
They sat on the welcome mat side by side, crunching their cookies one bite at a time. Crumbs landed everywhere.
Jenny leaned her shoulder against Setareh's shoulder. The door stayed open behind them, and they ate in happy silence.
