The walls of my room seemed closer than ever as I shut the door behind us, the heavy silence pressing down as Marcy and I stood face to face.
I could feel her concern radiating off her, see the worry in her eyes as she scanned my face, as if searching for some hidden sign that everything was okay.
But I could tell, even without a word, that she already knew.
She had always been perceptive whenever I was in trouble and I feared this strength which she possessed might be the worst thing that might happen to both of us right now.
"Maria," Marcy said quietly, her voice gentle but firm. "I know things aren't alright. I can see it, even if you're trying to pretend otherwise. Please, don't lie to me."
I looked away, swallowing hard.
It took everything in me to keep my expression steady, to hold back the flood of fear and desperation churning inside.