Albert felt his embarrassment keenly, but her soft, composed voice cut through the tension, offering him a graceful way out.
"Albert, I just made some coffee. Why not sit down and have a cup?"
Her invitation carried no deeper meaning—she merely wanted to ease his discomfort and give him some dignity. Watching him stand there, looking so out of place and helpless like a child, even she felt a pang of guilt.
Albert was quick to catch the lifeline she offered. He sat down on the sofa, reclaiming some semblance of composure. She soon placed a perfectly prepared cup of coffee before him, her tone polite and distant.
"Albert, enjoy your coffee."
With her own cup in hand, she gracefully retreated to the attic, leaving him alone. She had given him a chance to save face, and she hoped he would take it without further pushing her limits.