Damian checked his watch for what felt like the hundredth time, then cast another anxious glance at the door. Still no sign of Carmela. His patience was thinning, but Ella, seated comfortably across the room, seemed utterly unbothered by the tension that had settled since Carmela's arrival. She appeared detached, as if nothing happening around her concerned her in the least. Damian sighed heavily. If things were going to go according to his plan, he realized he'd have to take matters into his own hands.
He walked briskly to Carmela's room and knocked, his knuckles rapping against the wood with a sense of urgency. When no response came, his frustration grew. He hesitated for a moment before turning the handle and pushing the door open. The room was cloaked in darkness, the heavy curtains blocking out all traces of the morning light.
