Cold, warm, hot, who cares?
They can't DF you.
Why aren't you going to the meetings?
A: Oh, I'll be there next week. Thanks for your concern.
Q: Why didn't you show last week?
A: Oh, my ______ passed. I need some time. Thanks for your concern.
Q: Last time I talked to you, _____ passed. Are you ok? When are you coming back?
A: Oh, I'm fine. I'll be there next week. Thanks for your concern.
Q: We think you're being cold to us, and you're not being truthful. What's wrong?
A: Well, my family is having some problems that are personal, and I need to deal with. Thanks for your concern.