Ava’s POV:
Daniel Cross doesn’t enter the room like someone who needs permission.
He steps inside as if the space adjusts around him by instinct. The air feels tighter the moment he crosses the threshold. Margaret remains near the door, arms folded, watching like this is a handoff she personally approved.
Dr. Morris stands a few steps back, silent. Observing.
“This won’t take long,” Daniel says.
I don’t sit. I stay where I am, spine straight, hands loose at my sides.
“Then speak,” I reply.
His eyes flick briefly to the folder on the desk. The birth records. He already knows what’s inside. He would not be here otherwise.
“You understand why I’m here,” he says.
“I understand why you think you should be,” I answer.
That earns the faintest curve of his mouth. Not a smile. Recognition
