The Only Option

As the steps grew closer, Ellen let go of Alex's hands, but not before Leo saw them.

"There you are, so I kept you waiting," Janet said, coming from the other end of the hall.

Ellen smiled warmly and replied, "It's fine; we can go now."

"Yes, of course." Janet responded before turning to Alex to say, "Thank you for having us."

In that moment, Janet's eyes landed on Leo, who was standing at the other end of the hall.

"Oh, Mr. Warner," Janet exclaimed, adding, "I didn't realize you were here too. How nice to see you!."

Leo walked the remaining distance to them, nodding his head in acknowledgement, his expression plain and unreadable as he replied, "It's nice to see you too."

Janet smiled, oblivious to the tension in the air as she replied, "Thank you again for inviting us. We would take our leave now."

Ellen turned and entered the elevator with Janet. She made sure not to lock eyes with Leo until the door closed.

"What was that about?" Leo asked, his eyes still on the closed elevator do