"I am doing well," she answered, smiling down at the young man. She had the overwhelming desire to hug Billy, but instead she simply rested her hand on his shoulder. She noticed then that he seemed a little tense. Was he nervous? It would explain the awkward smile he gave. She gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze - an unspoken reassurance that things were okay and he didn't need to be nervous.
"How are you? Things are looking up for you, I hope."