As the sound of rushed footsteps approached from behind the door, Arthur looked at Ellen's grateful and concerned expression. He did not know what to answer her, as a feeling of self-hate swelled in his heart. Then, the footsteps stopped, and someone rushed through the door.
"Ellen," called Oriole as he breathed out. "I didn't know you were coming," he said before turning toward Arthur, looking at him with concern. "I need Alexie for something. Give us a moment."
"...alright," Ellen stared at him and nodded before standing. "I will drop off the materials downstairs. Let's go for a meal afterward."
Arthur watched her leave through the door as if he was staring at a ghost. Ori allowed Ellen to walk past him and closed the door behind her before turning toward the silent Arthur.
