Lost in concentration, she hadn't even heard the knock. It was only when she heard the voice right beside her that she snapped back to reality. She looked up, her eyes swollen from crying.
"Sonio…"
He set down a small tray on the desk. On it was a cup of warm milk.
"I will not ask why you are like this."
Sonio placed a handkerchief beside the tray.
"But please, at least rest for a moment. It is an old man's request."
Only then did Eileen realize she hadn't eaten or slept. She had only been crying and poring over books.
"I fear this will do you great harm."
At Sonio's earnest plea, Eileen slowly lowered her gaze. He was right. But she wasn't hungry or sleepy. If anything, she feared closing her eyes. In a hoarse voice, she murmured,
"…I'm sorry."
"There is no need for apologies."
Sonio's face twisted in concern. He knelt, meeting Eileen's eyes at her seated level.
"In that case, may I ask one thing?"
He spoke gently.
