After a difficult divorce, Phoebe moves into a quiet little house on Maple Street with her 6-year-old daughter, Lily. Eager for a fresh start, she’s immediately welcomed by her sweet elderly neighbor, Mrs. Thompson, who brings over cookies and insists on helping her unpack. The two women bond over shared stories, and Mrs. Thompson’s presence makes the transition feel comforting and right. Phoebe is touched by her kindness, especially after such a lonely year.
That night, after spending time together, Mrs. Thompson invites Phoebe for dinner and assures her that she’s always there if needed. The next morning, Phoebe finds an envelope addressed to “The New Owner” sitting on one of the last unpacked boxes. Inside is a letter from Mrs. Thompson revealing that a pet tortoise named Sheldon lives in the basement an exotic, high-maintenance creature she’s cared for since the previous owner passed away. Now too old to manage, she hopes Phoebe will take over.
Though touched by the gesture, Phoebe feels overwhelmed. As a single mom starting over, she knows she can’t handle another responsibility. When she gently tells Mrs. Thompson she can’t take Sheldon, the older woman understands, though her disappointment is clear. Later, sitting alone in the living room, Phoebe feels the weight of it all.
She realizes that even in this new house, she already feels like she’s let someone down. The sense of a clean slate starts to fade. The next morning, she makes a difficult choice she’ll sell the house and find a new place without hidden strings. One where she and Lily can truly begin again, free of unexpected burdens.