The minutes ticked by slowly, each one feeling like an eternity. Nurses bustled past, their shoes squeaking on the linoleum floors. The antiseptic smell of the hospital seemed to grow stronger, making Ava feel slightly nauseous.
Just as the silence was becoming unbearable, the elevator doors dinged open, and a familiar voice cut through the quiet murmur of the waiting room.
"Where is he? Where's Charles?"
Ava's head snapped up, her eyes widening in disbelief. "Mom?"
Victoria strode into the waiting room, her high heels clicking against the floor like a metronome. But she wasn't alone. Trailing behind her, looking uncomfortable and out of place, was Manny.
Ava stood up, her face a mix of confusion and anger. "What are you doing here?"
Victoria pulled her daughter into a stiff hug, her expensive perfume enveloping Ava in a cloud of memories. "I came as soon as I heard. How is he? Any news?"
