Chapter 16 - 13: A New Path Forward
Ellen's footsteps echoed down the familiar hallways of Victoria Housekeeping Co.'s headquarters. It felt surreal to be back after days of relentless survival in Hollow Zero. The smell of freshly brewed tea wafted from the kitchen, and the faint hum of a vacuum cleaner in the distance brought an unexpected comfort. Yet, even with the warmth of familiarity, Ellen couldn't shake the tension that clung to her like the lingering cold of the Hollows.
Mira trailed behind her, clutching the edge of Ellen's jacket. The girl's wide eyes darted around the room, a mix of curiosity and nervousness evident on her face. Despite the exhaustion written all over her, Mira stayed close, as if afraid to lose the one anchor she had left.
Von Lycaon was the first to greet them, his sharp gaze softening as he approached. "Ellen," he said, his deep voice tinged with relief. "It's good to have you back."
Ellen managed a faint smile. "Yeah. Guess you can't get rid of me that easily."
The rest of the team quickly gathered in the common area. Rina, ever poised, had a tray of tea ready within moments, though the uncharacteristic tremble in her hands didn't escape Ellen's notice. Corin looked like she might cry but masked it with a sharp comment. "You sure took your time getting back," she muttered, though her voice cracked slightly.
Ellen chuckled softly. "Missed you too, Corin."
As the reunion settled, the reality of their situation began to sink in. Mira's presence was impossible to ignore, and the team's usual lighthearted banter gave way to a more somber discussion. The question hung unspoken in the air: What would happen to Mira?
Later that evening, the team gathered around the central table. Mira sat quietly beside Ellen, her small frame dwarfed by the oversized chair. The conversation was cautious, voices hushed but urgent.
"We can't just leave her to fend for herself," Corin said firmly, her hands gripping the edge of the table. "She's been through enough."
"But what options do we have?" Rina countered, her tone calm but strained. "We're not equipped to raise a child here. And if the authorities get involved..."
Ellen's jaw tightened. "She's not going to some orphanage," she said, her voice low but resolute. "They'll take one look at her and see an opportunity, not a kid who needs help."