The woman gave a vague nod, the kind that didn’t promise anything, and resumed typing. A few seconds later, Claire heard the boy’s laughter again, already running back toward the water. Claire picked up her thermos and took a long, slow sip, trying to let the coolness wash away the frustration.
But the truth was, it only felt like the clock was ticking now, counting down to the moment her patience would run out completely. Claire tried to return to her book, telling herself the woman’s half-hearted nod was enough. But it was wishful thinking.