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“Then why do you look like you want to cry?” When Cass didn’t answer, Nadia continued. “I hear it helps to talk.”

The realization of the truth of that statement hit Cass square in the chest. “You’re right.” She dug money out of her pocket and slapped it on the bar.

“Where are you going?” Nadia asked when Cass stood up.

“No offense, Nadia, but you’re not the one I want or need to talk to right now. Thank you for reminding me this isn’t my life anymore.” Cass turned away, then hesitated. Her words came out far harsher than she had intended. Nadia hadn’t deserved Cass’s lousy attitude. Maybe they weren’t friends, but they certainly weren’t enemies either. She turned back.

“What happened here, Nadia? I don’t remember this place being so… depressing.”

To Cass’s surprise, Nadia let out a small laugh. “Neglect and disinterest. I know we didn’t talk much about our lives, but I was a bartender here, Cass, sleeping with the owner. When she died, I found myself with a bar that bled more money than it made. I tried in the beginning with the limited business experience I had. As I got older, I changed, but the clientele didn’t. I lost the urge to keep trying, and now I don’t know how to get it back to its former glory. Or update it.”

Cass pursed her lips in thought. “My girl,” her voice hitched. “She’s, uh, a pretty brilliant businesswoman. Things are hectic at the moment, but I bet she could help you get this place the way you want. Just something to think about, Nadia. Take care.” With that, Cass took off to see the one person she hoped could help her stay positive.

Nadia stood there for a moment, watching Cass’s retreating back. “Well, that was weird.”

Mickey grabbed Cass’s glass, dumping the nearly full contents in the sink. “Think that has anything to do with the crap Miranda pulled?”

Nadia looked over at her bartender. “I don’t know. But I’ve never seen someone as confident as Cass Giles look so… lost.”

Cass’s hand shook as she pressed the doorbell, shuffling her feet as she waited. She practiced what she wanted to say the entire way here. But now that she was actually here, all of those words left her. The door opened, and Cass wasn’t sure if it was good or bad luck when it was Ellie staring back at her.

“Please don’t slam the door in my face,” Cass said hastily.

“I wouldn’t,” Ellie answered calmly. “But if you’re here to yell at my wife — or hit her again — you can turn around and walk away.”

Cass shook her head. “I-I’m not. God, Ellie, I don’t know what came over me. I can’t apologize enough.”

“It’s not me you should be apologizing to. I’ll go get Hunter.”

“Wait! Please?” Cass blew out a breath. “I’m… not ready to face her yet. I know how cowardly that is, but my emotions are off the charts, and I just need to get a handle on what’s happening here.” Cass gestured to her heart and head.

Ellie couldn’t help but feel empathetic for Cass. She knew first-hand what it was like to be unable to control her emotions. She lashed out at those she loved the most, and luckily they forgave her.

“Would you like to come in?”

Cass shook her head. “I thought, um, maybe you would go for a walk with me? Just a short one!” she clarified quickly, not wanting to piss Hunter off even more by tiring out her wife.

She needs to talk, Ellie thought silently. “Let me put my shoes on and tell Hunter where I’ll be.” Ellie stepped back to let Cass in, but Cass didn’t move.

“I-I can meet you down there,” Cass pointed towards the beach behind the Vales’ house.

“You’re going to have to face Hunter sooner or later.”

“I know.” Cass lowered her head in shame. “I will, I promise.”

Ellie nodded. “I’ll see you down at the beach.” She closed the door as Cass took off.

“She still mad at me?”

Ellie turned to her wife, wincing at the bruise forming on her cheek. “I don’t think she ever was, love.” She touched Hunter’s cheek softly. “She’s scared and embarrassed by her actions. Just give Cass a little time. You two will be drinking beer and grilling burgers again in no time.”

Hunter gave Ellie a small, sad smile. “Not if Rebecca doesn’t fully recover.”

“Is that a possibility?”

“It depends on why it’s happening. I don’t want to speculate…”

Ellie sensed Hunter’s uneasiness. “Then don’t. I know this is affecting you almost as much as it is Cass. Rebecca is one of your dearest friends.”