By now, the sky had fully darkened. I found myself in the narrow and dimly lit alley behind the café, a place reeking with a foul odor—not exactly the best spot for a conversation. Under the faint glow of a streetlamp, Ellis stood in a black coat. I took a deep breath and approached her.
"Can't we talk somewhere warmer and more comfortable?"
"No. Warm, comfortable, and bright places are too dangerous for me."
I shrugged. "Alright, tell me the secret."
"It seems you've had an enjoyable week."
"To be honest, I have to thank you for this opportunity. I'm not being sarcastic; I mean it. Becoming friends with Amelia and the others has made me very happy."
Ellis snorted. "A bunch of ants living at the bottom of society, what right do they have to talk about happiness?"
"You're right. Thei
