Kasandra needed to hear the words that Avery had just said. For someone to absolve her of the guilt she had been feeling all of this time.
Perhaps it was somewhat self-serving, since it was obvious how Avery would respond. Still, having him reassuring her helped to put her mind and heart at ease.
"Thank you, Avery." Kasandra said as she leaned her head against his chest. He felt sturdy and comforting. Like he would be able to protect her from anything.
For a few minutes the two of them simply stayed like this, until the door to the room swooshed open.
Fortunately, it was Jasmine, and she was hardly surprised by the display she found. In fact, there was a hint of envy in her eyes as she looked at Kasandra nuzzling against Avery.
"I guess this means our time it up."
Kasandra pulled away from Avery and the vulnerableness she had been displaying had completely vanished from her expression. She was back to how she usually was.