The hours dragged on like a heavy cloak, suffocating me with each passing moment. I couldn't escape the weight of my conflicting emotions.
Erik's words lingered in the air, a constant reminder of my failings. How could he possibly understand what it was like to be an outsider in a world that felt so alien to me?
The door creaked open, interrupting my thoughts as Erik stepped in. I turned my back to him, facing the wall, trying to shield myself from his presence.
"Elena," he said softly, his voice carrying an undertone of concern. "I know we aren’t doing very well but shutting me out won’t do anything right now."
I clenched my fists, anger bubbling within me. "You don't get it, Erik. You don't understand what it's like to be torn between two worlds."
There was a heavy silence, and I f
