“Oh, just a little antsy, I guess,” Jackie replied. “Bad news from home.” Instantly, she wished she hadn’t said that. Now she might have to explain.
“What’s happening at home? Is everything OK?” Valerie asked, with concern in her voice.
“Well, I can’t say, just yet. I’m waiting for an email in about twenty minutes, before I’ll know anything for sure.” Jackie was being as evasive as she could while trying not to appear rude. If it became necessary to sabotage the ship, she was afraid she might have already said too much.
But Valerie was sharp and very intuitive. With her educational background and clinical training, she recognized her friend was carrying a very heavy burden on her soul. Not much ever got past Valerie.
“So, is there anything you need help with or want to talk about? I have plenty of time,” Valerie shrugged with a grin. The waiting to land was almost becoming a joke.
“Not just yet,” Jackie replied. “I’ll let you know.” After preparing her tea, she picked up the cup, and headed back to the stateroom.