570: ANYTIME

We were still in Tessa's apartment having conversation, and when our laughter faded, Tessa’s expression turned serious once more. “Ariel, I don’t want to sound clichéd or cheesy, but your mother lives on in you. You’ve got her kindness, her strength… and you’re stubborn as a mule too.” I felt my cheeks flush slightly, but I couldn’t deny the truth in her words. “Thanks, Tessa. That means more than you know.” She nodded, the corners of her mouth curving into a smile. “Anytime." Tessa and I lapsed into comfortable silence, sipping our tea and enjoying each other’s company. But as the minutes ticked by, I knew I couldn’t stay forever. “So,” I began, setting down my cup. “How about that soup?” She laughed. “I was wondering when you were going to get around to that.” She stood up and motioned for me to follow her to the kitchen. “Come on, we can work on it together. It’ll be like old times.” We spent the next hour chopping vegetables, stirring soup, and sharing memories. It felt goo