e y

ontorted with false sincerity, h

ile had been the last thing she

her old hometown, for a reason

hildren' s wing of the local hospital. Ava, having a soft spot for the cause

ter, her hair tied back. She wanted to blend in, t

walking through the Lynwood Plaza, an outdoor mall, heading to

umn afternoon. The

n she s

son and Ch

the centerpiece of a local business expo. Li

ating that same arrogant confidence. He' d gained a bit

her hand possessively on his arm. She scanne

hammered agai

ted this. Not now

done with them, that th

he universe h

"Lynwood' s Rising Star – Peterson Developments

large potted plant, her br

leave. Turn ar

to confirm they were real and not just ghost

te applause. He stepped down, be

her smile wid

g over her. They looked... happy. Or at l

away, intending to

la

canning for an audience or a

e froze. Her

whispered somet

irst in surprise, then in a slow, dawning r

They knew

s no esc