After a long day of classes and work, Mindy trudged wearily through the front door, her backpack slung over one shoulder. The familiar scent of home enveloped her, filling her with a sense of comfort and warmth.
"Mom, I'm home," Mindy called out as she entered the cozy living room, where her mother, Grace, sat reading a book.
"Welcome back, sweetheart," Grace replied, looking up from her book with a warm smile. "How was your day?"
Mindy sighed, sinking into the nearest armchair with a tired sigh. "Long," she admitted, running a hand through her hair. "But I made it through."
Grace nodded sympathetically, her expression filled with understanding. "I'm proud of you, Mindy. You're doing such a great job," she said, her voice filled with pride.
Mindy offered her mother a grateful smile before excusing herself to go and take a cold shower, hoping to wash away the exhaustion that clung to her like a heavy shroud.