Everything doesn't need to. Only one glance, such a small thing, and yet so much in its singular power.

[ The huff of a laugh is strained, and she slowly shakes her head while looking off to the side. ]

I will always call him my friend, even if he should hate me. My dear friends will always welcome me, I believe—the me that they are willing to accept. And then there will always be another part of me...begrudged the warmth of their embrace. It will never be welcome.

[ How can they be any other way? ]

I know, yes, I know... I must be going mad. It is this place. [ She reaches to press the heel of her palm to her temple. ] I don't know how to...explain why this is different. I only know that for the first time since I have known him, I was afraid to look into the eyes of Ethan Chandler.