Guilt and Gratitude

Robert pursed his lips, his gaze deep and complex as he asked, "Miss Jules, you're in such a state yourself, why are you still worrying about me?" "What do you mean?" Lucille smiled faintly, clearly deciding to play dumb about what just happened. It was her choice. There was no need for Robert to know, and even less for him to feel guilt or gratitude afterwards. Lucille did not dwell on this issue and quickly changed the subject, "I haven't asked you yet, where have you been these days?" Robert remained silent and did not answer. Lucille shrugged as she said, "It's alright if you don't want to talk about it, it's your own choice to go anywhere. I have no right to intervene." But then, to her surprise, Robert suddenly spoke, saying something Lucille never expected. He said, "Miss Jules, I'm sorry. I was busy during the days I was gone." Busy? With what? Lucille found it funny and was about to ask what it was. However, when she saw the guilt and reluctance in Robert's eyes, her expressio