Vincent’s POV

I did not expect anyone else to be in there.

The lounge was supposed to be empty. I had come down only to clear my head after the last round of notes, folder still in my hand, sleeves already rolled. The blue light of the screen was the first thing I saw when the door opened. Then I saw her.

Ava sat on the long couch with her feet pulled up, eyes fixed forward. For a second neither of us moved. Surprise crossed her face the same way it must have crossed mine. I stepped inside, let the door close, and walked the length of the room. I...