The Spark Designer

"Oh, one would think you're about to pounce on me," Nora said as she walked up to Ava.

She had witnessed part of the conversation and hoped that the resentments from her family would push her out of town once again.

Ava's lips lifted up in a smile when she realized it was Nora. There was no way she was going to give Nora the chance to pity her.

"Hello Nora, you look better," Ava replied.

"I always did look better, you know, probably why you're there and I am here," Nora said with a smile, the underlying message like a soft jab to Ava's heart.

"Probably, well, like they always say, trash is better kept in the bin," Ava replied.

Nora's eyes narrowed intantly, but before she could say another word, Ava turned away.

Standing behind her was Nathan, looking at her through very hard eyes. Without saying a word, Ava walked past him.

As she entered, Ava saw Bella wave to her, and she walked towards the big round table where she was.

"That took long, are you okay?" Bella asked, taking her hand a