Eli

I locked the door shut behind me.

Hours passed before I returned, carrying a tray of food and water. I'd made sure it wasn't too cold or too hot; it was just right, just how she liked it. She looked smaller under the harsh light, fragile in a way that made my chest ache. I set the tray on the table, keeping my gaze down.

"I don't want you to be hungry," I murmured. "You need your strength."

When I turned to leave again, her voice stopped me. She was trembling, "Eli… please… why me?"

I paused at the door. I didn't have to think about the answer.

Without...