In the aftermath of sparing Abby's life, Ellie grapples with the burdens of her past while facing isolation and ostracism in the Jackson community due to her immunity to the cordyceps infection. Her world has turned upside down and complicated until...
In Jackson, rumors about Ellie's immunity to the cordyceps infection spread rapidly, driven by fear and prejudice. People exchanged wary glances and hushed conversations whenever she passed, casting suspicion over her. Some saw her as a potential savior, while others viewed her with mistrust, believing she posed a threat. Ellie was trapped in a web of speculation and judgment, yearning for acceptance in a world still fraught with uncertainty.
While she walked, snippets of conversations made her skin crawl. "Did you hear about Ellie? They say she's immune... probably cursed or something," one person said. "Yeah, she's definitely a freak. Can't trust someone like that," another supported. The words hit her like a slap, amplifying her anger and frustration.
In the privacy of her own thoughts, Ellie swore silently, fed up with the constant scrutiny and isolation. "I'm so sick of this," she thought, resentment bubbling under the surface. "Why can't they see I'm not a threat?" She was exhausted from being treated like an outcast, from the whispers and sidelong stares that followed her everywhere. Ignorance was tearing at the community, and she was caught in the middle. Despite her tough exterior, the gossip chipped away at her sense of belonging, leaving her feeling utterly alone. "They don't get it," she muttered to herself, her jaw set. "I'm still human, and I deserve to be treated like one".
As Ellie and Taylor approached Cat's house, Ellie locked eyes with Amber, the one responsible for spreading the talk about her immunity. Amber, with her blonde ponytail and a smug smirk, blocked Ellie's path.
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"Look who decided to crawl out of her hole. Brave move, Ellie," she taunted.
Ellie huffed, feeling annoyed. "Cut the crap, Amber. What's your fucking problem with me?"
Amber shrugged, her smile widening. "No problem, just stating facts. You're immune, and that makes you a freak".
Ellie's irritation boiled over. "You're just pissed because you don't get the attention you want. Guess what, Amber, I don't give a damn what you think".
Amber's eyes gleamed with malicious glee. "Maybe you should worry about why Dina dumped you. Ever think it's because there's something wrong with you?"
Ellie felt a sharp pang in her chest, but she kept her voice steady. "You crossed the line, Amber. What happened with Dina is none of your fucking business. Spreading shit about me won't make you feel better about yourself".
Taylor interposed himself just as tensions were about to escalate, his expression stern. "Enough, Amber. I've had it with your bullshit. This stops now. We're supposed to support each other, not tear each other apart. Your rumors and petty behavior have no place here".
Amber rolled her eyes and pouted. "Come on, Taylor, it's not like I'm the only one who thinks it".
Taylor shook his head, his voice firm. "I don't care what you think. Apologize to Ellie right now, and make it sincere".
With a grudging nod, Amber said in a forced, fake tone, "Fine. Sorry, Ellie".
Ellie exhaled and brushed past Amber, her resolve unwavering as she made her way to Cat's house. She appreciated Taylor's intervention, but the burden of doubt still weighed heavily on her shoulders.
Before they could speak, the door creaked open and Cat appeared, leaning against the doorframe. "Hey, guys," she breathed, her voice thick with emotion, her face streaked with tears. "What was all that noise outside? Are you both alright?"
"We're okay, Cat. Just some drama," Ellie replied, trying to sound calming. "Amber was being a fucking pain in the ass, but we dealt with it. What happened? You look really upset," she asked, her voice full of sympathy.
Cat sniffled, wiping her eyes. "It's Joyce... my cousin. I can't believe she's really gone," she managed to say, her voice trembling. "I hoped we would find her alive, but instead... she was already dead. There are no chances for reconciliation now, and it's just... so sudden. I don't even know how to process it. One moment she was here, and now..."
Seeing Cat so devastated made Ellie's heart ache. She moved closer and wrapped her arms around Cat in a gentle, firm embrace. Cat's body initially tensed, then slowly relaxed into Ellie's comforting hug. Ellie rubbed Cat's back soothingly, whispering, "I'm so sorry, Cat. If there's anything I can do, I'm here for you. Whatever you need, just let me know".
Taylor stepped closer, his expression softening as he placed a supportive hand on Cat's shoulder. "Yeah, Cat, we've got your back," he said, his voice steady and reassuring.
Cat mustered a weak smile despite her grief. "Thanks, guys. Come on in. I'll make us some hot drinks, and we can talk," she said, her voice wavering slightly. Ellie and Taylor followed Cat inside, thankful for their friendship during this tough time.
When Cat disappeared into the kitchen to make hot drinks for Ellie and Taylor, Ellie couldn't help but smile at the welcoming scene. The wooden floors and walls gave the space a rustic charm, while the soft glow of numerous paper lanterns created a cozy atmosphere. The scent of incense filled the air, adding to the tranquility.
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Noticing Ellie's nostalgia, Taylor started a conversation. "You know, this is my first time in her house," he admitted, sitting down at the low coffee table. "I can tell this place holds a lot of good memories for you".
Ellie agreed, a grin forming. "Yeah, it's pretty special. Cat's got a way of making everyone feel at home," she replied, her eyes taking in the room's charm.
"I gotta say, it's got a great vibe," he observed, clearly impressed. "It's no wonder you feel so relaxed here. This place just has a way of putting you at ease".
Cat returned with a tray of steaming mugs. "Here you go, guys. Hot cocoa, just the way you like it," she said warmly.
Taylor eagerly took a mug and sipped with a contented sigh. "Mmm, this is amazing. Thanks, Cat," he said, gratitude clear in his voice. "You always know how to make things better".
Ellie took a sip, experiencing a sense of warmth and belonging. Surrounded by the familiarity of Cat's home, she felt enveloped in deep connection and peace. It was in these moments, sharing simple pleasures with friends, that she found solace and strength.
