232 Cass’s Surprise

(Winona)

It’s Tuesday morning, and the city outside our penthouse is already buzzing with activity. I’ve got a full day ahead of me. The work calendar is packed tight, and I know today will be a marathon, but my mind drifts to Cass.

After our argument yesterday, I’m worried. She’s still not home. I have to leave very soon.

I pace the living room, finishing my second cup of coffee when I finally hear the front door click open.

Cass walks in, looking disheveled but not exactly hungover.

“Morning,” I say, trying to keep my voice casual, though I’m anything but relaxed.

“Morning,” she replies, dropping her bag on the floor and kicking off her work shoes.

“I’m just about to head to the office. Everything okay?” I don’t want to sound like I’m lecturing her again.

Cass shrugs, but she’s still got that smile. “Yeah, actually. Everything’s great. I got offered a trainee position in the kitchen at the restaurant. Full-time.”

I blink, taken aback. “Wait, really? That’s amazing, Cass!” I wasn’t e