Nicole hesitated, her face grew tense which he immediately noticed.
He didn't speak right away as he took in her every expression.
She looked away, lips slightly parted like she had something to say but didn't want to. He stopped walking altogether.
"Nicole…" his voice was low, gentle. "What is it?"
She gave him a quick shake of the head. "Nothing. It's nothing. Let's just go."
He frowned. "Nicole."
"I said it's nothing, Ray."
He stepped in front of her, blocking her path. "No, see... I know that face. That's your 'I'm not okay but I'll swallow it anyway' face. Don't do that with me."
Nicole's breath caught. Her hands fidgeted against the baby blanket she was holding.
"I said I'm fine."
He looked at her like he could see right through her. "You're lying."
Nicole's lips trembled. She swallowed hard, eyes flickering to the ground.
"Just… drop it, please," she whispered.
"Nicole," he said again, his voice came out softer this time. "Talk to me."
