ERICA

I make my way to my seat, my feet carrying me slowly as if weighed down by my own shame. I feel like I'm on display, my tardiness and awkward encounter with Alpha Donovan making me the center of attention. I slide into the last available seat on the single row, trying to escape the gaze of my fellow attendees.

As I settle in, I drop my bag onto my lap and begin to rummage through it for a notepad and pen. I pull them out and place them on my lap, copying the others around me who are already poised to take notes. The familiar ritual of preparing...