"I am sorry for my place. I'm in the middle of something," Alicia said.
Theo and Arthur stepped into the apartment without commenting on the state of it. Theo's gaze moved across the room once, scanning rather than observing. He registered the disorder but did not dwell on it.
Arthur gave the room a brief glance as well, then returned his attention to Alicia almost immediately.
"We are sorry for barging in like this unannounced," Theo replied. "But we are worried about you and wanted to know how you're dealing with all of this."
He offered her a small smile.
"And we might be able to answer some questions you might have."
Alicia smiled back, the expression faint but sincere.
"I'd like that. Please, have a seat. Again, I'm sorry. I don't have anywhere available except the floor."
She moved first, sitting down near the coffee table in the small space that was still clear.
Theo and Arthur followed without hesitation, lowering themselves onto the floor beside her.
