Chapter 16

Cassandra heard every word from outside the door. She closed her eyes in pain, and her heart ached so sharply she nearly lost her balance. After taking a moment to steady herself, she forced her feet to move forward and tapped the door with her white cane. "Ash, Elle, may I come in?" The door was slightly ajar and swung open at her push. The moment she appeared, she witnessed Noelle scramble onto the bed and yank the blanket over her head, clearly refusing to acknowledge her. A wave of disappointment washed over Cassandra. Flustered by her sudden appearance, Ashton clenched his fists. His eyes darted nervously between her face and the floor. Could she have heard what he said? For a five-year-old, every thought was written plainly on his face, and there was no need for any guessing. Seeing the guilt in Ashton's expression, Cassandra's heart softened as she said, "My hearing hasn't fully recovered yet, so you'll have to speak up so I can hear you." It was a good thing that she