The second day of the seminar started early and bright. Everyone gathered in the big hall, dressed sharply, holding notebooks, and bottles of cold water rested on the table. I, too, was not underdressed or less excited despite the cold that existed between me and Dr. Aldrich.

The guy chose to ghost me that time around. He had not spoken to me after watching me leave his room the other night. His reaction spoke volumes; he chose war instead of peace because that is exactly what his son was willing to give as long as he continued to anger him. He chose chaos over peace and my love, and I...