CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN –TAKING A BREAK

In the days that followed, Cassie found herself approaching her work with renewed energy. The successful capture of the pranksters had reminded her of her own capabilities, independent of her relationship status. One quiet afternoon, as Cassie was refilling salt shakers, she overheard a couple at a nearby table. "Did you hear about those kids who were pranking this place?" the woman asked. "I heard they got caught red-handed." Her companion nodded. "Yeah, apparently one of the waitresses here set up this whole elaborate sting operation. Pretty impressive, if you ask me." Cassie ducked her head to hide her smile, a warm glow of pride spreading through her. Later that day, as she was hanging up her apron, Jake approached her again. "Hey, Cassie. Some of us are going out for drinks after work. Want to join?" Cassie's first instinct was to decline, to retreat to the solitude of her apartment. But something made her pause. She thought about the empty rooms waiting for her, the silenc