Danny hurriedly pulled her into his embrace and whispered softly, "I'm sorry, Ella. But you know, all school district apartments have that layout. I really didn’t have a choice …”
" … You and John are going to live with …S …Sarah?" Ella managed to croak hoarsely.
She felt his grip tighten around her. His voice came from above her. “Having Sarah live with us will make it easier for her to tutor John, so... But don't worry, Ella, she won't be staying long. You can live here by yourself for now. It's only until John finishes his college entrance exams ....”
Suddenly, Ella pushed him away, pointed at the door with trembling fingers and forced a word from her throat, "Leave!"
Danny opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something, but before he could, Ella had already pushed him out.
Watching the door slam shut before him, a strange sense of panic washed over him.
He knocked on the door and said in a low voice, “Ella, I’m sorry. I’ll make it up to you later, I promise.”
Inside, Ella slumped against the door and crumpled weakly on the floor. She had to bite her lips hard to stifle her cry of pain.