Chapter 9 - Katie

I smile at Casper and then look at Mark as warmth fills my chest. “I’m very happy. Happier than you can even imagine.”

Evan, Frank, Wanda, and Izzy all scurry towards us and huddle around while Wanda chimes, “We came, too. We have all missed you. When are you coming home?”

With tears in her eyes, Izzy adds, “Yes, we want you to come back with us and I don’t think Mark is going to leave without you and Cass. Plus, we have promised to teach him how to cook so he can make a meal for his grandparents.”

Frank sternly continues, “We all know your secret now, so there isn’t anything to hide. I believe Mark has proven himself that he is planning on staying with you. You better not try to stay behind or avoid him. If you try to, then we will just take Cass with us.”

What? I shake my head and shout, “No, you can’t! Cass stays with me.”

Mark tightens his hold on me and whispers, “You and Cass stay with me.”

Heat rushes across my face at his words. I don’t know why. I have desperately