CHAPTER TWENTY THREE – TRYING TO BE NORMAL AGAIN

The day after Alex's public outburst at Cheesy Fingers, Cassie dragged herself to work, dreading the inevitable gossip and sideways glances. As she tied on her apron, Mr. Thompson approached her. "Cassie, a word in my office?" She nodded, following him with a sense of impending doom. Once inside, Mr. Thompson sighed heavily. "Cassie, I've always valued your work ethic, but yesterday's incident was... concerning." "Mr. Thompson, I can explain—" He held up a hand. "I don't need details of your personal life. Just make sure it doesn't affect your work again. Understood?" Cassie nodded, relief washing over her. "Yes, sir. It won't happen again." As she left his office, Cassie noticed a group of teenagers entering the diner. Something about their hushed giggles and furtive glances set her on edge. She approached their table, plastering on a smile. "Welcome to Cheesy Fingers. What can I get you?" A lanky boy with a mischievous grin spoke up. "We'll have four chocolate milkshakes, pl