CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN – CAUGHT IN THE MIX

As the session continued, Joan marveled at how far Emily had come. The angry, closed-off girl she'd met weeks ago was slowly giving way to a more open, resilient young woman. It wasn't always easy, and there were still bad days, but moments like this made it all worthwhile. Later that evening, Joan found herself humming as she prepared for her dinner date with Vito. She had reserved a table at a romantic Italian restaurant, hoping to reconnect after their recent tension over his proposal to move in together. Joan smoothed down her new dress, checking her reflection one last time before heading out. She arrived at the restaurant early, excitement bubbling in her chest. "Reservation for two under Keppler," she told the hostess. As she was led to a cozy corner table, Joan's phone buzzed with a text from Vito: "Running a bit late. Start without me if you want. Be there soon." Joan frowned slightly but pushed away her disappointment. She ordered a glass of wine and settled in to wait.