Chapter 56 For Being Here, Thanks

• Ava woke up the next morning, the sunlight gently filtering through the curtains. The house was eerily quiet, save for the faint clinking of dishes coming from the kitchen. She padded out in her silk robe, her steps light but deliberate. When she entered the kitchen, her gaze fell on Monica and Janet, who were busily chatting while preparing something. Their faces lit up as they noticed her.
• "Mrs. Pascal, you're awake?" Monica's voice carried an excited warmth that made Ava's lips curve slightly. "We were just discussing going grocery shopping. Is there anything specific you'd like us to get?"
• Ava paused, taking in the genuine enthusiasm on their faces. These two women had been a constant presence in her life, even during the times she had wanted things to be different and for Alexander to at least see her. She owed them more than she cared to admit.