Penelope was eventually able to pull herself at least somewhat together, still feeling the sobs her core, and feeling them as she breathed. Like hiccups, but much more embarassing. "I'm sorry Percy. I think I'll be alright--I shouldn't bother you more than I have," she said as she wiped her eyes with the offered handkerchief, without wondering why he would have such a thing on him...since it was Percy.
Her comment held for about a minute until she started thinking aloud about what she knew about Lloyd's death. "I can't believe he's gone. He's so young--he was so close to finishing school--and he didn't have any health problems--there was nothing wrong with him that we knew of before he had passed away." She looked at the ground as she spoke, afraid that if she looked anyone in the eye she'd start crying again.