The bond between Eva and her new parents grew stronger, and the Smith household started to feel like a true family. But as Eva’s English improved, she began to share stories about her life in Uganda that left Natalie and Adam unsettled.
At first, Eva used simple words and gestures to communicate. She would point to a picture of a house and say, “Home,” or hug her teddy bear tightly, whispering, “Mama.” These moments were heart-wrenching for Natalie and Adam, who comforted their daughter as best as they could.