It was Marlon's birthday, and the house was packed with people. Wanting to avoid any drama with Madelyn, Alicia said to him, "Don't worry about me, I'll just take a walk outside."
Marlon knew about the issues between her and Madelyn, so he didn't push it. In a kind voice, he said, "Okay, just wander around the yard, but don't go too far. Come back when dinner's ready."
Alicia felt touched by his care. They weren't related, just teacher and student, but he looked out for her like family. It reminded her of her grandpa. Her eyes got watery thinking about him.
She looked for Louis in the crowd and saw him talking to Morris in the living room's far corner. They were probably chatting about work stuff. Not wanting to interrupt, she went outside on her own.
