“It’s not that big a place,” Aiyana chimed in modestly. “But if you ever decide to try some of the restaurants in town, be sure to let me know. I can guide you to the best Chinese or Italian or Thai or whatever you like.”

“I doubt I’ll be circulating much.” Tia was taken aback that Aiyana would even suggest her being seen in public.

“I hope you won’t miss the entire Christmas season.”

That was kind of the point of coming here, but Tia didn’t say so. Aiyana was now leaning forward to make sure she held Tia’s attention as she added, “I hope you won’t let anything hold you back.”

The razor focus of her eyes belied her warm smile. She was implying that what happened next was up to Tia and Tia alone, and Tia knew she was right. That was why she’d quit covering her scars, why she’d joined Seth for dinner and then breakfast this morning, why she’d agreed to this meeting. It had very little to do with Seth trying to strong-arm her by threatening to call the paparazzi. She could’ve refused and, as unappealing as it sounded, continued to hide from the world. But she knew he was right, too: Although those things were difficult for her, she knew she had to at least try to accept her new reality and embrace a normal life again, before she lost the ability to do so.

Seth and Aiyana were trying to throw her a rope. She just wasn’t sure she’d be able to catch it.

“I’ll do my best,” she said.

Aiyana sat back and began to tell her about how she knew Maxi, the good he did for the school, how much he loved Seth’s work and that Seth would be teaching at New Horizons after Christmas.

Tia enjoyed chatting with them. It was like letting some fresh air and sunshine into the room. After about twenty minutes, she found herself offering them coffee or tea and insisting they share the cookies.

Aiyana and Seth both agreed to tea, and Aiyana joined Tia in the kitchen to help prepare it.

By the time Seth and his mother were ready to leave, Tia was feeling better again. The talking and laughing and camaraderie made such a difference. For an hour, she hadn’t been able to dwell on the tragedy that had stolen her career and disfigured her face, and when Aiyana turned at the door and pulled Tia into a big hug, Tia found herself squeezing Seth’s mother just as hard in return.

“I had such a wonderful time getting to know you,” Aiyana said. “I hope you’ll allow me to visit again.”

Tia didn’t want her to leave. She was afraid the darkness and despair of her situation would close in on her again. “Of course. Come by whenever you’d like.”