Feeling my defensiveness rise, I snapped back, my words laced with irritation. "You're starting to sound like the press," I retorted, my tone sharper than intended. The look of disappointment on her face made me realize I had mishandled the situation. With a heavy sigh, I softened my demeanor and leaned forward. "I'm sorry if I came off harsh just now. My family is a sensitive topic for me, one I prefer not to discuss."
Clara's expression softened, and she nodded understandingly. "You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to," she reassured me. "And I should apologize for prying."
Her understanding behaviour made me feel more guilty for my outburst. "I'm sorry, Clara," I said sincerely, acknowledging my fault.
She smiled tightly. “It is fine.” Packing up her food, she wiped her
