Chapter 9
Kassia woke up feeling energized.Chicago was still asleep as she stretched and checked her calendar. Working two jobs was never easy. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, she worked at the library from 4 PM to 8 PM. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays were for her restaurant shifts.
On top of that, she tutored Caleb every Monday and Tuesday for two hours. Her life felt completely bombarded. With graduation just a few months away, she hoped to secure a scholarship to study in New York City. That opportunity would mean freedom from her mother, a fresh start, and a chance to enroll Chicago in a good school over there. She prayed everything would work out.
That morning, she decided to tidy up the house. She had no idea if her mother would visit—after all, it had been over a month since she last saw her. Thankfully, her ankle had healed well, and she could now walk without her crutches.
Kassia loved Sundays. They meant a day off—a chance to relax, spend time with Chicago, and catch up on schoolwork. She still hadn't completed her university application, but it was on her to-do list.
After making breakfast—pancakes with a little whipped cream—she went to freshen up.
"Kassia, I'm hungry," Chicago said, peeking into the kitchen.
"Okay, go sit at the table so we can eat," Kassia replied with a smile.
They ate and relaxed for a while until Christy came over.
"Hey, girlie!" Christy greeted as she stepped inside.
"Christy! I've missed you—and I have gist for you," Kassia said excitedly.
They both sank into the rusty couch, one of the many worn-out items in the small home. Kassia glanced over and saw Chicago drawing quietly in a corner.
"So, girlie, what's going on with you?" Christy asked.
"I told you I was going to tutor Caleb since I needed the money, right? Well, I met someone at his place—or rather, Chicago met him and introduced us," Kassia began.
"Oh?" Christy raised an eyebrow.
"He was so rude. He completely ignored my greeting," Kassia added, shaking her head.
"Who do you think he was? Do you think he's related to Caleb?" Christy asked curiously.
"I don't know. They don't really look alike, but he's handsome—sharp jawline, blue eyes," Kassia admitted.
"Well, his rude behavior ruined all that good looks," Christy replied with a scoff.
"Anyway," Kassia continued, "Yesterday was my shift at the restaurant. I was working as usual when I saw him again—Mr. Cain."
"What's his full name?" Christy interrupted.
"I don't know. Remember, it was Chicago who introduced us," Kassia said.
"Okay, let's try searching him online. I'm sure we can find something," Christy suggested.
She pulled out her phone and scrolled through photos. "Look at this. Do you see him in any of these pictures?"
Kassia leaned in. "Yes, that's him."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes. That's Mr. Cain."
"Kassia, that's Cain Mysia!" Christy exclaimed.
"Cain Mysia?" Kassia repeated, surprised.
"Yes! He's Caleb's older brother," Christy mumbled, almost to herself.
"No wonder their personalities suck," Kassia muttered.
"Oh, and I haven't even told you why I brought all this up," she added, sitting up straighter. "Yesterday, while I was working, I slipped on my way out of the restaurant and crashed right into him. He was also heading out at the time. His phone slipped from his hand and broke because of the fall."
Christy's eyes widened. "What did he do?"
"He was furious. He insulted me and called me all sorts of names. I was so ashamed. I tried to explain that it was an accident, but he didn't want to hear it. It only made him angrier," Kassia said, her voice soft with regret.
"He's so stupid. He clearly doesn't know you. If he did, he'd know you'd never hurt someone on purpose," Christy said firmly.
"One of his friends actually offered to take Chicago and me home afterward," Kassia added.
"Oh, my sweet baby. Just forget about the whole thing, okay? Don't let Mr. Mysia spoil your mood," Christy said, giving her a reassuring hug.
"Anyway, I'm starving," Christy added. "What do you have at home?"
"I made pancakes," Kassia replied.
"Perfect. I'm famished!"
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Author note
Hey guys!
I decided to drop this update a little early since work hasn't been too crazy lately.
Let me know what you think of Chapter 9—I'd really love to hear your thoughts!
And if you notice any grammar mistakes or anything that sounds off, feel free to point it out (nicely, please!).
Thanks for reading and sticking with the story!
Xoxo
CC