Maintaining composure
The meeting was awkward and filled with strained silences, punctuated by awkward attempts at conversation.

I maintained my composure, my eyes carefully observing every reaction. “So, how have you all been?” she asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
The kids glanced at each other, unsure how to respond. “We’ve been managing,” I replied, cutting through the tension.
I kept my emotions in check, focusing on the children’s well-being above all.