Leah Rhodes was having trouble finding the right words.
Stella Sterling, however, understood what she meant. She stepped aside and said, "No need to be so formal. Please, come in."
It was probably a case of affection by association.
Stella felt an instinctive need to be more patient and caring toward Leah.
Inside the room.
Leah sat down.
She didn't say a word, just sat there, motionless.
Stella was a little nervous, afraid she might suddenly have an episode.
Her gaze swept over the fruit platter and the thermal container on the table. She spoke to her in Cantonese, "Have you eaten?"
Leah glanced at her and shook her head. "When is Uncle coming back?"
"He should be back soon." Stella walked over to the table. "There's fruit and some nourishing soup here. Would you like to try some?"
Leah stared at her blankly, not saying a word for a long moment.
Her eyes were so dark and vacant that being stared at by her made one's skin crawl.
A shiver ran down Stella's spine.
