As Nathaniel cleared the dishes, he said, “I’m fine. I can go to the company with you.”

Cecilia looked at him, her expression turning serious. “Nathaniel, what’s really been going on with you these past few days?”

He paused, caught off guard for a moment, then replied, “Nothing much. I probably just haven’t been sleeping well.”

“You know that’s not what I’m asking.”

Her face tightened.

Nathaniel saw it, but the truth still stuck in his throat.

“Ceci, just let me stay with you a little more, okay? I really don’t want to be too far away from you,” he said softly.