A LITTLE TALK

Maximus glanced at his wristwatch for the fourth time since he took a seat inside the living room. While it bothered him that Matilda had been smiling at him since they got here, he had to remind himself that she was Ava's mother and for his little wife's sake, the least he could do was endure.

Matilda quickly excused herself, and walked to Wadsworth who stood right outside the room. "Fiddlestick, call Sasha right away. And inform her of our guest," she instructed.

Fiddlestick nodded softly before leaving to do what was ordered.

"And Fiddlestick..." He turned sharply to her. "...make sure Ava isn't aware that Mr. Quinn is here."

"Yes, ma'am."

Inside the room, a maid set a cup of tea on the table in front of Maximus about the same time Matilda walked into the room. Noticing the Lady's presence, she bowed and also placed a tea in front of Matilda. She took her last bow before leaving the room.