Chapter 182

Cassandra just had a relaxing bath, and by the time she stepped out, Edith had finished whipping up dinner. When Delia came to call her to the table and saw Cassandra's transformation, she couldn't help but smile. That version of Cassandra she knew so well-the confident, radiant one-had finally come back. "Hug?" Cassandra beamed and opened her arms wide. Delia smiled knowingly and gave her a big bear hug. No words were needed; they both knew-every person who seems to love life has only gotten there by surviving its brutal moments, stashing those hurts deep down, and holding tight to whatever good they have now. After dinner, Noah had stepped out for a bit but rushed back not long after, running straight up to the two girls, who were cracking up at a variety show on TV. "You okay, Noah?" Delia raised an eyebrow. Normally, the guy would eat and bounce, not show up again. Noah gave a little nod but seemed unsure whether to speak in front of Cassandra, so he hesitated. Cassandra caught on