The doorman opens the door, and Avery barely recognizes the hotel lobby. It's only been a few months since she last visited the hotel, but the atmosphere has changed. Dozens of businesspeople and well-dressed tourists crowd the reception area, waiting to check-in.
Across the marble lobby, the ding of the elevator. The doors slide open, and a short-haired woman wearing a crisp, professional skirt suit rushes out.
"Avery," Claire calls. "It's good to see you."
"Claire, it looks like you've done a great job with the place," Avery says. "I barely recognized the hotel—business is booming. You make a good manager."
Claire smiles shyly and says, "Don't make fun of me. I've been doing my best, but I'm not that experienced."
Avery smiles back and puts a hand on her stomach. Claire's sharp eyes dart down, and she purses her lips.
"How long have you been pregnant?" Claire asks.
"Almost four months," she answers.