Just as Tom was turning to leave, a knock sounded at the door. Lexi popped her cheerful head in, saying, "Hello, did I just see you come back from the diner?"
"Yes," Ariel said with a slightly proud smile.
"That's awesome," Lexi cheered. "I didn't expect you to get there for a few more days at least."
"I woke up feeling okay and decided to try," Ariel responded, still smiling.
"Anyway, I've come on behalf of the council with a question," Lexi said, switching to a serious tone. "Some of them noticed you walking and were wondering if you wanted a few of them to come by here to talk."
"I thought I was just going to go to them," Chris said quickly. He wanted to prevent Ariel from trying to push herself any further.
"I'd be happy to meet them here," Ariel said at almost the same time Chri
