Two hundred and six: Early flight back

They all went inside and sat at the dining table. The maids surrounded them and began serving slices of pies.

LD climbed down from her seat that was next to her grandmother. “Daddy!” She wailed as she hurried to Ivan.

Ivan immediately caught her in his arms and lifted her into his lap. “What's wrong? Is there something bothering you?”

She nodded her head but said nothing.

They all watched her in fear. Neither of them understood what was wrong with her to make her almost tear up and worry and anxiety swallowed them up as they waited for her to confess to her father.

“Go ahead Darling, you can tell me anything.” Ivan said in a soft tone.

Janet was already on her feet and she hurried to the other side of Ivan's chair where she could meet with LD's gaze. Placing her hand on her husband's thighs, she crouched down next to him.

LD still remained silent in her father's lap with her arms wrapped around his neck.

“Here, come on, whisper it in my ear.” Ivan leaned in closer to her with h