Chapter 49

"Hello?" Alex greeted the phone call.

"Hi Alex, it's Cassandra."

"Hey! How are you?"

"I was wondering if we could catch up sometime."

"Sure, do you want me to come over? The three of us - you, Jasper, and I - could have dinner together."

"Well, about Jasper... he's not home," I said softly.

"Oh, where is he?"

"Alex, could you please pick me up quickly?" I asked urgently, my voice trembling slightly.

"Absolutely, I'll be there in a jiffy," he assured me with a calming tone as we ended the call. As I scrambled to get dressed, I found myself reflecting on the drastic changes in my life. Gone were the days of early mornings, job hunting, and late nights. My schedule was now filled with a myriad of activities and social outings, but amidst the hustle and bustle, I couldn't shake off the yearning for the structure and purpose that work once provided.

Interrupting my pensive thoughts, the doorbell chimed, and I eagerly swung open the door to be greeted by Alex, looking dapper in his maroon sh