Ariana's milky blue glass eyes seemed to barely graze over Bruce. "I've been better," she answered sourly. Alex returned with Melanie, the child having seemed calmed down from her excited state. The Spanish woman was glad to take her child back and into her arms. She picked Melanie up to prop her on her hip. The little girl grinned at Bruce with her childish happiness. It was like a stab to Ariana's heart with Melanie's blissful ignorance.

Juliettee smiled politely at Dick when he approached, but directed her attention on Ryan when he responded. She pressed her lips together, as she had done every time he seemed too calm for the situation. Of course, she had been the only witness to see him break down before. She gently squeezed his hand in assurance.