Chapter 33: Welcome Home
The morning sun had just begun to light up the Manhattan skyline when Cassidy stepped out of the taxi and headed towards the hospital’s private wing. She moved quickly, her breath forming a slight mist in the chilly air. In one hand, she clutched a paper bag filled with coffee and pastries, something small, something familiar to hold onto.
This time, she hadn’t brought Claire along. Not yet. There were too many emotions, too many unresolved conversations. Cassidy wanted to face her family first, prepare herself, before introducing them to the little girl who had changed everything.
As she entered the VIP suite where her mother was being treated, Cassidy slowed her steps. The first thing that struck her was the sterile scent of antiseptic, followed by the soft hum of monitors and the steady rhythm of the heart rate machine. And then, she saw her.
Kyra.
Sandro’s wife was seated beside Teresa’s bed, gently adjusting the blanket over her mother-in-law’s legs. The moment Cassidy entered, Kyra turned, and her eyes widened.
"Cassidy?" Her voice was a mix of surprise and warmth. She rose from her chair, approaching with a gentle, disbelieving smile. "Oh my God, I didn’t know you were back! Sandro didn’t say anything."
Cassidy returned the smile, though it was a bit faint.
"He’s unaware. I just arrived... two days ago."
Kyra paused for a moment, then nodded in understanding. Her smile softened.
"That makes sense." She moved closer and wrapped Cassidy in a gentle, warm hug. "Still... it’s so nice to see you."
Cassidy let herself be hugged for a short time. It had been a long time since she felt such a warm welcome from anyone besides Thiego or Georgia.