One hundred and sixty-two

Talia's POV:

"Would you like some hot chocolate or anything? Maybe coffee or tea?" Lilian asked, still hovering by the table. Normally, when Nicholas and I were eating together, she made herself scarce, but for some reason, she seemed reluctant to leave me alone this morning.

I looked up from my plate and forced myself to give her a smile. "No, I'm okay, Lilian, thanks." Picking up my fork, I speared some eggs and brought them to my mouth, determined to eat something to alleviate the concern I saw on the housekeeper's softly rounded face.

As I chewed, I saw Lilian hesitating for a moment, as though she wanted to say something else, but then she disappeared into the kitchen, leaving me to my breakfast. For the next few minutes, I made a serious attempt to eat, but everything tasted like sand and I finally gave up.