I heard Casey's soft footsteps come down the stairs before I saw her walk towards the kitchen pantry.

"Hey, can I talk to you?" Casey asked as she leaned on the kitchen's doorframe.

I raised my head and looked at her. I observed her body language and took note of how she looked hesitant. She had one foot in and one foot out, as if she hasn't really made up her mind on whether to confide in me or not.

"Yeah, of course. Do you want some hot chocolate?" I asked, offering her ...