Chapter 21

Knowing her daughter was coming home, Madeline prepared a lavish spread of dishes. However, when the door opened and they saw Saoirse's less-than-happy face, both parents were surprised and quickly approached her. "Saoirse, what's wrong? Is work not going well, or are you unhappy with your new place?" Saoirse had been troubled all the way home by Julian's move. Not wanting to worry her parents further, she forced a smile. "It's nothing. I got stepped on by someone when I got off the elevator." Her parents, knowing their daughter well, could tell that her smile was not genuine. But, respecting her need for space, they didn't press further. They urged her to wash up and eat. Despite the sumptuous meal, Saoirse remained distracted, even chewing on a bare rib bone. Noticing her distress, Bjoern gave Madeline a knowing look. Madeline then gently suggested, "Saoirse, it's normal to feel out of place when you're new in town. Why don't you share your worries with us? We might be able to