"Don't worry about it," Cassie says, squinting through the oven window at the stuffing within. This is the worst part of Thanksgiving, when whole house smells delicious and she can't eat anything yet. "Mom thinks you're a good influence on me, so she's happy to have you. And we don't get to hang out nearly enough anymore, what with school and extra-curriculars and all."

Deciding that the stuffing isn't quite golden-brown enough yet, Cassie stands up and picks up her water goblet. "So I've been reading up on xenia. You know, the whole Greek hospitality thing?" She takes a sip, watching Cissie over the rim. "Apparently, it's rude to ask your guest questions about what they need before they tell you themselves." She leans against the counter, idly swirling her drink around the inside of the glass. "It's pretty interesting."