Marco POV I walked to Ellen's room feeling unprepared and guilt-filled. We hadn’t spoken in a day, yet it felt even longer. I believe it felt that way because even after Beta Dan had gone to see her the day before, he didn’t give me any progress about her—no words, no insight. If anything, he came back looking angered and more preoccupied than ever. “Ellen?” I said, knocking on the door, but there was no response. “Ellen, I’m at the door. Please, I want to talk to you.” Still she didn't answer. Only then did I realize the door wasn’t locked, so I proceeded to let myself inside. Ellen sat on the chair, arms folded. Even though she knew I had entered the room, she didn’t see the need to acknowledge me. I exhaled, the task ahead of me feeling heavy. “My love, I’m sorry,” I start

