When Carissa boarded the bus and took the back seat, she took a deep breath, feeling the cool night air fill her lungs. The stars twinkled above, and for the first time in a while, she felt a sense of calm. She knew that there were still challenges ahead, but with the support of those around her, she believed they could overcome anything.
When she got home, she was surprised to see her brother Duncan with her parents. They welcomed her warmly, and Joyce told her, "Angelina is asleep."
Carissa nodded, exhaustion was evident in her posture. She attempted to walk away, but her father stopped her.
"Duncan has something to say, my dear."
"I'm tired. Can't it wait until morning?" she protested, her tone weary.
"Please, Carissa," her mother begged softly. "Just listen to him."
She flared up, her frustration boiling over. "What now? Does he want to ask me for money again?"
"No, I just want to talk," Duncan cut in softly, looking sincere.
