His expression was soft nothing like the stern one he always used for pictures and certainly nothing like the enraged voice from ten years ago. Gently he raised his hand brushing her hair from her face before stroking her cheek. Ava blinked not certain how she should take his kind gestures or the
For the first time in weeks Ava woke rested and she wasn’t alone. Alexis snuggled beside her while Sean and Theo lounged at the foot of the bed. Seeing them she couldn’t help but smile but she also felt the pain of regret knowing Silas was not with them. Perhaps his presence had only been a dream
“Okay here’s our next move,” Alexis said. “We need bots to spread the news of their failed projects. Highlight the bids they lost to Prescott and make it look like they are falling behind. That should make investors think twice. Also highlight our little escapade with the hack. If they are too
“Be seated,” the bailiff instructed after Judge Matthews took his seat. “Let’s see,” the judge said, “Custody hearing. Mister Emerson Carlisle versus Miss Avalynn (Carlisle) Carter.” The judge looked up from his paperwork. On one side of the room sat Emerson Carlisle, res
“Young man that is not appropriate language in the courtroom,” Judge Matthews gently admonished. “Then tell him to turn around and stop leering over here,” Theo retorted. “He keeps looking at Lexi like she’s a piece of meat. It’s creepy.” The judge cleared his throat hidi
“And your occupation.” “I’m a sergeant. I am part of the Drug Enforcement Administration of New York.” “And how long have you been a part of the DEA.” “Ten years.” “Have you gone on many raids?” “Yes. More than I can count.”
A bright-eyed woman took her seat after being sworn in. She was dressed professionally in a simple suit and skirt. Her auburn hair was pulled back in a neat bun and she studied the courtroom through rimless glasses. “Doctor could you state your profession please?” Tracy asked.
“Mister Carlisle, sit down or I will find you in contempt of court. Miss Carlisle, or Carter…which do you prefer?” “Carter,” Ava answered after a moment of hesitation but she managed to say it without stuttering. “Very well. Miss Carter do you have another place to stay?”
“Mom and I were planning to play later,” Alexis said. “You can too if you want.” “Really? Thanks,” Caden immediately brightened. “…So you based the décor on the diner you used to work in,” Macey said after listening to Ava’s brief retelling of her past. “Were you thinki
Silas’s embrace tightened. He hated thinking about the trials she went through without him. Ava leaned against him relishing his comfort and support. Their past was not as important as their future. “You two aren’t going to go all kissy-face, right?” Theo asked. “We’re in public and
Two Months Later The restaurant was lively. Guests had been arriving for the past two hours eager for a unique dining experience. The staff was well-trained providing exceptional service despite the rush. They had been drilled in their duties by the restaurant’s manager, a tyrant the
She nodded. “Going down?” Silas repeated. “Just what have you three planned now?” “It was more like a hunch,” Lexi said. “Sean found something real interesting when he deep-dived Ryker Holdings. So we asked Duncan to keep an eye on someone, just in case.” “D
“Late? A test for what?” Silas asked not following. “Are you serious?” Tracy snorted a laugh. “Ava, you’re going to have to be a little clearer,” Opal chuckled. “Remember, it’s his first time.” Silas glanced from one to the other even more confused. Looking
“There you three are,” Tracy said as the trio returned to the party. “We were just about to send the search party to find you.” “Auntie Tracy, you’re so silly,” Alexis giggled. “How are you feeling mom?” Ava hugged her tight but Alexis didn’t feel any tension or strain in
Finding no support anywhere Jenna finally fled. No one paid her further mind as they watched the kids swarm around their parents comforting their mother. It was a sweet and tender scene and many began to see Silas in a completely different light. * * * Jenna screamed as she storme
Jenna stepped forward intentionally shoving her shoulder and made Ava stumble back. “W-What is—” Jenna stuttered as the video paused. “Who was calling who shameless?” Alexis demanded standing next to her mother arms crossed in front of her chest. “So playing with people’s
The music started slowly with just a few notes announcing the beginning of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy. The simple melody became more complex as notes overlapped and weaved a new organic pattern but always maintaining the integrity of the piece. Conversation lulled as everyone turned their