Ava approached Jeremy hesitantly. The man still had his elbows on his knees, bowed while massaging his temples. Occasionally, his shoulders seemed to rise, pressed by the tightness of his chest. Ava couldn't bear to see it.

"Jeremy," she called softly. When the man glanced out of the corner of his eye, she continued, "Would you like me to accompany you?"

Jeremy shook his head slightly. "I'm fine, Ava. Just need time to think. You just accompany the others at the dinner table. I'll catch up ...