I snap at myself, but that doesn’t stop me.
Ava notices me approaching them first. Her laughter immediately fades and something shifts in her expression.
First surprise, then awkwardness, then caution.
Dr. Carter turns to see what she is looking at and he smiles politely when he sees me approaching.
“Good morning. Black.”
He greets me respectfully.
I give him a short nod.
“Doctor Carter.”
I say stifly before my eyes move to Ava briefly.
“Doctor Stevens.”
I say again, my voice a bit softer this time.
I see surprise flash across her face again then her throat bobs slightly when she swallows.
“Hi.”
She says awkwardly and a tense silence settles between us for a second.
Then Carter smiles at me again.
“We were just talking about the fundraiser next week. I was just begging her t
