Vera Wave took the soup from Aya Stewart, taking small sips as Bailey Hansen stood up.
"Go ahead and eat. I'll go check on your grandfather so he won't worry. Once you're done eating, just set it aside, and I'll come up to collect it!"
She turned towards the door, and Vera lifted her face.
"Mom!"
Bailey stopped and turned to look at her.
"Thank you," the young girl said earnestly.
"Don't be so formal with me. Just drink your soup!"
Bailey walked out, smiling and closing the door behind her.
Vera looked into the bowl of soup. Instead of using a spoon, she tilted the bowl to her lips and drank it all in large gulps.
After drinking a large bowl of hot soup, she seemed to regain her energy. She got out of bed, changed into a fresh set of clothes, went into the bathroom, washed her face, brushed her teeth, and meticulously applied a light layer of makeup.
Gazing at her reflection for a moment, she picked up her bag and went downstairs.
