Flora stood by the window. She remained in the dark, the gloom of the room matching the hollow feeling in her chest, until a soft knock broke the silence.
She stiffened, realizing the presence outside wasn't Zander or any of the wolves.
"Flora, are you awake? It's Carlos. Can we speak for a moment?"
She hesitated, then finally reached for the switch. The sudden amber glow of the lamps made her squint as she opened the door. Carlos stood there, with a calm expression, holding a small wooden tray.
"I brought coffee for you," Carlos said in a humble tone.
Flora stepped back to let him in. He placed the tray on the coffee table. He didn't push her to talk immediately; instead, he looked at her with a depth of understanding. He knew what he had seen in her future, and that secret made him careful to speak.
