Art to fall in love with /// Lando Norris

Chapter 12: A New Step

The hospital room buzzed with a sense of anticipation and relief. Cassy sat on the edge of her bed, feeling much stronger and more alert. The doctor, an older man with kind eyes, had just finished his morning rounds and was standing by her bed with a warm smile.

"You're doing remarkably well, Cassy," he said, glancing at her chart. "I'm happy to say that you can leave the hospital today. However, I strongly recommend that you stay with someone for a few days, just in case you experience any lingering effects or need any assistance."

Cassy nodded, grateful for the good news but also feeling a twinge of anxiety about leaving the safe confines of the hospital. "Thank you, doctor. I really appreciate everything you've done."

He patted her shoulder reassuringly. "It's our pleasure. You have a strong support network around you, and that's incredibly important for your recovery. Take care of yourself, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything."

As the doctor left, Cassy's friends filed back into the room, their faces lighting up with joy when they saw her looking more like her usual self. Alexandra, Lily, and Kika gathered around her, while Charles, Alex, Max, and Lando stood a bit further back, giving the girls some space.

"The doctor said I can leave today," Cassy announced, a smile breaking across her face.

"That's amazing news!" Alexandra exclaimed, hugging her tightly.

"We're so happy for you," Lily added, her eyes sparkling with relief.

Kika nodded, but then her expression turned serious. "So, where are you going to stay? You heard what the doctor said. You shouldn't be alone."

Before Cassy could respond, a spirited debate erupted among her friends. "She should stay with me," Alexandra insisted. "Charles and I have plenty of room, and we can keep an eye on her."

"I don't know," Lily interjected. "My place is closer to the hospital. It would be easier if she needed to come back for any reason."

Kika chimed in, "I think my apartment is the best option. It's quiet, and she'll have plenty of space to relax and recover."

The boys, watching from the sidelines, exchanged amused glances. Lando, who had been standing quietly, finally spoke up. "What about my place? I'm happy to take care of her."

Everyone turned to look at Lando, and the room fell silent for a moment. Cassy watched the scene unfold with a mix of amusement and gratitude. It was heartwarming to see how much her friends cared about her well-being, but the bickering was starting to get a bit overwhelming.

Clearing her throat, Cassy raised her hand to get their attention. "Guys, I appreciate all of you so much. But I think I've made my decision."

The room went quiet again, and all eyes were on her. Cassy took a deep breath and turned to Lando. "I'll stay with you, Lando. If that's okay with you."

Lando's eyes widened in surprise, but then he smiled, a look of relief washing over his face. "Of course, it's okay. I'm really glad you chose to stay with me."

The others seemed taken aback at first, but then they nodded in agreement, understanding Cassy's decision. "Alright," Alexandra said with a smile. "If that's what you want, Cassy. Just know we're all here for you, no matter what."

They spent a few more minutes chatting and making sure Cassy was ready to leave. After exchanging heartfelt goodbyes and hugs, it was time to go. Lando took Cassy's handbag and slung it over his shoulder, offering her a supportive arm.

"Let's get you out of here," he said gently.

They walked out of the hospital together, stepping into the fresh morning air. Lando led her to his car, a sleek and stylish vehicle that matched his personality. He opened the passenger door for her with a flourish, earning a grateful smile from Cassy.

"Thank you, Lando," she said as she carefully climbed into the car. She felt a strange mix of anticipation and anxiety about what was to come. The events of the previous night were still a haze in her mind, and she wasn't sure how to navigate the complexities of her new situation.

Lando got into the driver's seat and started the car. As they drove away from the hospital, he glanced over at Cassy. "There's something I need to tell you," he began, his tone serious. "About Mia and me."

Cassy's heart skipped a beat at the mention of Mia. She had been wondering about the nature of their relationship ever since the night Mia had shown up at Lando's apartment. "What about her?"

Lando took a deep breath, focusing on the road ahead. "Mia and I were never in a real relationship. It was all for PR purposes. We were supposed to look like a couple to boost her public image and mine as well. But it was never real."

Cassy listened intently, processing his words. "So, you're not together anymore?"

"No, we're not. I ended the arrangement. It wasn't fair to either of us, and especially not to you. I want you to know that I care about you, Cassy. More than I've cared about anyone in a long time."

Cassy's heart softened at his confession. She had felt a special connection with Lando from the moment they met, but hearing him say it out loud made it feel even more real. "Thank you for telling me, Lando. I appreciate your honesty."

They drove in comfortable silence for a while, the tension between them easing with each passing mile. Lando soon pulled up in front of Cassy's hotel, and they both got out of the car. Cassy felt a mix of relief and nervousness as she gathered her belongings from her room, knowing that her life was about to change in unexpected ways.

With her suitcase in hand, she returned to the car, where Lando was waiting patiently. He took her luggage and placed it in the trunk, then opened the passenger door for her once again. "Ready to go?" he asked with a reassuring smile.

Cassy nodded, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. "Yes, I'm ready."

As they drove to Lando's apartment, he continued to share more about himself, filling in the gaps of his life that she hadn't yet known. He spoke about his career, his family, and his hopes for the future. Cassy found herself opening up too, sharing her dreams and fears with him.

When they finally arrived at Lando's apartment, he parked the car and helped her with her luggage. "Welcome back to Casa Norris," he said with a playful grin as he opened the door and led her inside.

The apartment was stylish and modern, yet it had a cozy and inviting feel. Cassy felt an immediate sense of comfort as she stepped inside back again.

"Do you want to take the guest room?," he asked, opening the door to a spacious and well-furnished room and she nodded. "But if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

Cassy set her suitcase down and looked around, feeling a sense of gratitude. "Thank you, Lando. For everything."

He smiled warmly at her. "You're welcome, Cassy. I'm just glad you're here and that you're okay."

Later that evening, as they sat on the couch watching a movie, Cassy couldn't help but feel grateful for the unexpected turn her life had taken. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, she knew she was in good hands. And as she looked at Lando, she felt a warmth in her heart that told her everything was going to be just fine.

The road ahead might be unpredictable, but with Lando by her side, Cassy felt ready to face whatever came their way. Together, they would navigate the ups and downs, supporting each other and building a future filled with love and understanding.