Lucia fell into step with Serge. “I understand that, but you guys have real problems to take care of, and I feel like your time and talents could be used better elsewhere.” She told him. “My laundry could have waited, and I was going to tell him that too.  It’s not as important and Eliases health.” She offered as they approached the kitchen.  

She glanced around and it did confirm in her mind that Serge really did love to cook.  She loved that he could watch her play outside while he cooked. It was a perfect house and a perfect set up for a family.  He had told her earlier that there was no Mrs Serge, but hey people had babies together without being married, she was living proof.  She felt a little guilty interrupting their time together.  She didn’t see his partner, and as she thought that word, it occurred to her that perhaps there was no Mrs Serge because there was a Mr Serge.  She blushed a little at the direction her thoughts were going.  

She was grateful for the distraction Eve provided as she asked about homemade salad dressing. “I can’t say that I have kiddo.” She said as she backed up to one of the chairs so she could let Eve slide off in a way she knew would be safe and secure.  She took a seat next to Eve, her normal diet was like that of an unsupervised six year old, so the last few meals she had shared with Serge had been quiet the change for her, and veggies? In her world that’s what food ate, but she was sitting next to a child so not a word about it would be spoken.  

“Elias was a perfect gentleman.  I am afraid I started the whole thing when I told him he looked like he died a week ago and just haven’t had the good grace to lie down anywhere.” She said with a small laugh.  “I am sorry that we ended up here.  I did make up the air mattress for him, but he wouldn’t hear it.” She said. 

She watched the look on his face and she did what she had done before.  She reached over and gently rested her hand on his forearm. “Hey, things slip through the cracks all the time, you are human. Everyone is ok, I am safe and protected, Elias is getting a nap.” She said as she started to eat. 

She couldn’t help the smile that crossed her face as Serge tried to start a conversation and his daughter dissolved into giggles. Lu could sense his discomfort and she smiled a little. “Yes, so your folding skills may yet get tested.” She said referencing the earlier joke between them.  “I really am sorry about this, I know that having your personal space invaded is not a comfortable feeling.” She said comfortingly. “Try to remember it’s temporary, I will be back home soon, and you and your family can get back to normal.” 

She glanced over her shoulder at Eve and smiled. “Princess precious over here is gonna help me get the laundry washed just right.” She said and glanced back at Serge. “If you have things you need to do Eve and I can hang out outside While the laundry is cycling so you can work.” She offered. She didn’t know if Serge really trusted her to watch his kid, but it was the least she could do for him for all that he had done and was doing for her.