“Just asking!” he defended and rubbed his goatee.
“I don’t think that’s any of your business!” she snipped.
“Gee, talk about getting out of bed on the wrong foot. Did you know father employed more guards this year?” he asked and elbowed her when she didn’t respond immediately.
“Ouch!” She turned to face him. “For your information, I know! Thanks to father, I am trapped,” she pouted.
Maria choked on her coffee. “Will you two just stop!” The staff fidgeted. “Today is stressful enough with all the new changes,” she said in a stern voice. “Must I remind you of your age?”
“Sorry, mother,” they apologised in unison.
Maria’s eyes narrowed in suspicion. “Did you and your father fight?”
The staff paused, all eyes on her.
“Not... exactly,” she answered vaguely.
Taking a sip of coffee, she savoured the brew’s velvety texture. The staff, relaxed a little. Jeff brought three dishes to the table. Spooning mixed fruit, muesli, and plain yogurt into a white china bowl, she took her first bite.
Suddenly the staff buzzed about the room. Instinctively, she glanced towards the door just as her father entered. The room grew very quiet. Tension mounting as he made his way to the head of the table. When he sat down. Jeff scurried over with coffee.