In Lucca’s room, he came out of the shower wearing his pajamas.

—Ara…

—Mmm?

—Sweetheart, tomorrow I have to get back to work. It’ll be here in the house, so I won’t be far. But your friends are coming. They have to work on a project with Kate. Bastien called the university; you haven’t missed anything, you only need to take the exams. —Lucca sat beside her and took her hand—. My girl, are you ready? The exams are online. Kate can help you. She’s asked about you a lot. She just wants to see you. I told her you weren’t ready yet. I want you to be who you used to be, Ara. I’ll be there for every step you take. Do you agree?

—I... does Kate really still want to be my friend?

—Of course, sweetheart. Who wouldn’t want to be your friend? You’re the sweetest woman in the world. And I already got authorization —I’ll teach you self-defense. You’ll learn how to protect yourself. If I’m not there, or neither Arthur nor Jake are, you’ll be able to defend yourself.

—Do you think I can?

—I know you