Strength and Mercy

Challenges and Changes

When Ava got back to Saving Grace she felt drained and decided to sit in her car to gather her wits. Part of her felt like the way she acted was petty but, considering all that happened, she had a right to say how she felt. As she sat back and closed her eyes she had to admit she felt like she finally released something. She always wanted to say that to him to see the guilt creep onto his face. Yet it wasn't as satisfying as she thought it would be...

"Why do I feel so damn conflicted," she murmured to herself.

No matter, she had work to do. She started to gather her things and remembered why she went to Walters office in the first place.

"Holy Toledo!" she yelled as she facepalmed herself. "I can't believe I forgot!"

She felt her heart race thinking about how her father's surprise visit threw her off but before she got out the car her phone rang.

"Hello?"

"Ava, you need to talk to yo' Daddy."

Ava sighed, "Not now, Mama Henson."

"Yes, now! You have a right to feel some kind of way but all that anger ain't good for you baby."

"I need to go to work," Ava huffed.

"Alright then, fresh pot. I'll see you at work." The line went dead.

Ava stared at her phone in disbelief but ended up laughing in spite of herself. That woman was stubborn! She continued giggling as she got out of her car and even when she entered the building. In spite of what happened at the church the exchange with Mother Henson made her feel lighter. She was kind of looking forward to Mama Jane's visit. Maybe the old mule was right, maybe it was time to let that anger go. Now isn't the time for this, she thought. I need to focus on talking to Pastor about these funds.

"Ava! Ava!" Asia hollered down the corridor.

"Now what," Ava sighed to herself.

"You will not believe who's in the conference room right now."

At first Ava drew a blank and then it hit her, "No..."

Asia grabbed her friend's hand and they raced up the stairwell. Ava had to pick up her skirt to ensure she wouldn't trip and Asia was tipping in her skirt and heels. When they reached the second floor Asia whipped the door open but Ava kept it from slamming. The two women sprinted to the conference room and peeped in the small window in the door. There was no mistaking it. Kaden Kross was standing with his back to the door, hands in his pockets. Even from the back the man looked daunting. Ava gave him the once-over and truly appreciated how his black suit fitted his body, especially how his pants flattered his backside and outlined his strong legs. He seemed so out of place in that basic room. She was sure his suit cost more than the furniture put together. Mean as he was he truly was a sight.

"If you keep staring at him like that you better ask him out to dinner," Asia teased.

Ava popped her friend then grabbed her dragging her to the tight supply closet before Kaden could see them. They held their breath when they heard the door open but it quickly slammed with a grunt. Both women exhaled and fixed their clothes.

"Why did you pop me?" Asia demanded.

"Because you were being an ass," she quipped. "Why is he here anyway?"

"He's here to see you," Asia said. When Ava's face dropped she told her in a comforting tone, "This may be an impromptu meeting about the status of the shelter."

Ava nodded and gestured Asia out the closet. As they walked back to the conference room Ava felt her chest tightening but couldn't tell if it was from excitement or anxiety.