As Bob watched Casey set down her things in his office, he saw a difference in her that could just not be placed. She looked the same, glowing as usual. But her eyes were hollow. Her movements were slowed just a fraction of a New York Second. And, as she stretched out to get a book that had fallen out, he could see the faintest hint of black and blue.

"So, Casey, how are you today?"

"Alright, considering."

"Considering?"

"My baby step-sister, Marti, has been diagnosed with Mesolthioma. She died last night in the hospital."

Bob raised his hand to his lips. "Oh, my...well...how are you holding up?" Bob braced himself for the tears, but was shocked when all Casey did was inhale.

"Good. I'm staying strong."

"And your...family?" Bob seemed hesitant on the word Casey rarely used.

"Unknown. Except for Derek. He's turned into a child."

"Now, Casey, don't you seem that's a little harsh?"

Casey's eyes widened just a bit. "Oh, it wasn't meant in a harsh way. It's true." To that, she pulled off her jacket to show the dotted bruises up her arm. "There's more on my legs."

Bob just gazed. "How did this..."

"This morning, I woke him up and he started calling out 'Marti, Marti!' He was wild, kicking and punching everywhere. I know he didn't mean it, he was just dealing with the pain. Then he started crying. He should be sleeping right now. I gave him some sedatives to make sure he didn't do anything stupid until I got home to take care of him." She looked up at the counselor. "Which reminds me. Can you please tell the school board that Derek will not be in for a while? If they ask, tell them what I told you. If they say he's lying, mention me."

Bob nodded. "Got it." He leaned back in his chair. "So...how's everyone else."

"I woke up my parents this morning. My mom said she's call in for Lizzie and Edwin. Which reminds me again. Can you ask the school board if I could get off the last half of the day. I have to pick them up from school and by the time the bell rings, I'm a bit too late and I don't want them to be waiting too long."

Bob nodded once more.

"Thanks." The warning bell rung. "Bye Bob." Without another word nor glance, Casey walked out of the room, leaving Bob to ponder...

What was new with Casey?