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¬ HILN

I ought to have expected it, but I was taken aback by Maybelle's reaction. She then snapped out of her senses, fiercely cursing under her breath as she put her cup away and snatched a tissue roll from a box on the floor, wiping at her mouth, neck and chest. 

The material seemed to absorb every ounce of moisture until there was none on her. The tissue was not wet either, but aside from the small warmth it emanated, it smelt strongly of the tea which had been spilt and it was a faint yellow hue. I waited for her to finish and even after she relaxed, there was a visible mixture of horror, confusion, and disbelief. 

"That can't be right…" She stared at me but wasn't focused. She was lost in thought, her voice a faint whisper. 

I had the same concern. 

Her eyes then shifted and focused on me. "But why are you telling me this?"