<div style="text-align: justify;">Alexia noticed her mother’s expression, and gave her a sheepish smile. She was sure about what the problem was. The dog. She would take it back out soon, but for now, she felt a need for the animal companion close to her. <br/><br/>Smiling at Rose when she said that she hadn’t lost much, Alexia nodded. “Nice. I wouldn’t have any say in that anyway”, she replied. Despite her not really being allowed to ride, Alexia didn’t seem to mind it at all. It was just for a while, after all. <br/><br/>With a smile when her mother agreed on a light lunch, Alexia nodded. It would be a good idea, so they wouldn’t feel sleepy after lunch and could enjoy their time together. When Rose looked at her that way, Alexia nodded almost imperceptibly to reassure her mother that she was fine. Focusing back on the picnic plans, Alexia thought for a moment before answering her mother’s question. “I think we can start preparing everything. I guess we’re all excited for our little picnic”, she replied. “And it’s a great idea to carry a loaf and stuff to make sandwiches once we get settled”, Alexia completed, thinking it was an easier way of preparing things, and a practical one in case someone wanted seconds. Alexia was still unsure what she would want, but she would make up her mind before they left for their little picnic.<br/><br/>Knowing that Thomas wasn’t picking up on her tension would definitely make Alexia feel better. It was one less worry for her, after all. <br/><br/>When her son placed his hands over her and her husband’s joined hands, Alexia smiled. “I think I would like chicken breast, cheese and tomato”, she mused, feeling that it would satisfy her for a nice lunch. <br/><br/>Feeling Connor’s embrace had also helped ease her tension. It was good to know that her erratic moods didn’t upset him too much. <br/><br/>Satisfied that everyone had made their choices, Alexia smiled at her husband and son. “Great, you boys go ahead and do this. I will take a quick nap, but I’ll definitely be back up before we’re supposed to leave the house”. After this comment, Alexia gave her husband’s hand another squeeze, and then moved her hand to squeeze her son’s before letting them both go and stepping back. A nap would work as a good way to relax, or an excuse to be alone for a while more.<br/><br/>Before excusing herself, Alexia would still plant a kiss on her husband’s lips and turn to her mother. “Do you need any help for now, mom?”, she asked, waiting for Rose’s answer so she could make her plans.</div>