Ava forced a small, polite smile as she walked closer to the group gathered in the gazebo. Every step felt heavier than the last as her mind raced with thoughts of how to handle the situation.
Daisy, sensing Ava's discomfort but unaware of the full extent of her turmoil, reached out and took her hand. "Come, sit with us," she encouraged, her voice warm and inviting.
Ava nodded, her heart pounding in her chest as there was empty space beside Mrs. Richards. She sat down, her eyes carefully avoiding her beside her and also she feared Cameron might suddenly appear. His absence both relieved and unnerved her; she wasn't ready to face him, yet the dread of the inevitable encounter lingered heavily over her.
Cameron's mother spoke first, her voice gentle and came out like a whisper. "Ava, dear, how are you? How is your health? "
" I am fine…." She replied in a low voice.
