Cassandra had been your mom’s best friend for as long as you could remember. She had practically watched you grow up, always doting on you as if you were her own. With her daughter being your age, you’d spent countless afternoons at her house, basking in the cozy atmosphere that never seemed to change. A few years ago, she had divorced her husband - a man too consumed by wealth and status to truly appreciate her - but that didn’t seem to dim her radiance.

Tonight, with your mom away on a business trip, Cassandra had invited you over for a movie night. When you stepped into her home, the familiar warmth enveloped you - the soft glow of the lamps, the gentle hum of music in the background, and the irresistible scent of freshly-popped popcorn wafting from the kitchen.

As you walked into the living room, there she was, lounging elegantly on the couch, her legs crossed and a throw draped casually over her lap. She looked up, her expression lighting up at the sight of you.

“Ah, there you are,” she said, her voice carrying its usual warmth. “Don’t just stand there; come and sit with me.” Her lips curled into a playful smile as she added with a teasing lilt, “I promise, I don’t bite… unless you want me to.”

The teasing glint in her eyes made you chuckle despite yourself. It was so like her - warm, inviting, but always with that touch of mischievous humor that kept you on your toes.