Cassandra's POV

A week passed by and Max was doing fine. After the mishap, we installed safety gates at the top of the stairs. Mom and dad visited often. I took frequent meals to stay fitter, it helped a lot and my nausea was less frequent than before. Julian and Nora took extra care of us. Our new housekeeper, Mrs. Gwendolyn Baker was a wonderful, middle-aged woman and she was perfect for us. She cooked delicious dishes every day and my appetite returned like never before.

"I'll get fat if I eat at this rate,' I said, relishing a slice of strawberry shortcake with lots of whipped cream toppings. I...