The look of concern on Zinnia's face only increased as he spoke before cutting himself off. If she could, she'd have stood up and hugged him. Clearly it was something he needed. But she knew she couldn't. Propriety dictated a lot of how she could react or how she could be with a man that wasn't her husband. Mr. Tilcott wasn't even much more than acquaintance so her reactions were quite limited.

She did, however, dare to reach over and give his hand a gentle but firm squeeze. Her glove hand remained on his just briefly, not too long to draw any attention but hopefully long enough to show him he wasn't alone. And though she wasn't sure what she could do to help, she would do whatever she could to help.

"Can I help?" she asked, ignoring his own question as she clearly tried to keep her focus on him and his own issues, "I-I'd like to help if there's a way I can."

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