Meadowlark Prairie I've been losing sleep while I'm at home

His smile deteriorated and his head lowered. There was a sense of regret and respect within his stance. His wording was slowed before he confessed to telling "a bad joke." A bad joke! She thought. What kind of company was he keeping that joking about depriving someone of their freedom and will to live was humorous. The thought disgusted her and the only thing redeeming about this encounter was his obvious regret for his actions.

His tone then changed to that of concern as he asked about her welfare. She looked up at him hesitantly, warry of his newfound concern. "I've been better and I've been worse," she said sheepishly. He then offered to help her in some way. "What do you mean you can help?" she asked.