Rose shook her head. "I'm just... not myself. It's been a long day. I should probably go home..."

Elijah was surprised. "Really? But.. you haven't finished eating your food.." He wanted her to talk, even if it meant harmless torture.

"Oh... yeah...." She had forgotten her food. She ate a cake.

Elijah sighed and rubbed his face. "Please, speak to me Rose. Something is wrong. You were fine a few moments ago, almost happy."

[Content warning: heavy super-ego, shame/guilt themes]

She looked up at him once more. "I don't want to complain. I have so much to be thankful of. And your friendship. I have really no excuse for being sad or unhappy. I'm just being silly and ungrateful, Elijah. Ye mustn't mind me." She shook her head. "I ought to be ashamed of myself... Would you like the rest of my cakes. I'm done."

Elijah shook his head to her offer for the cakes. "Please, why are you ashamed of yourself? You really can talk to me, even if it makes no sense. I promise I won't mention it outside of here, and I won't hold anything you say against you.'

Rose took a deep breath. She looked back down at her tea, which was getting cold. "I just feel sad and lonely sometimes..." She admitted. "But sorry," she shook her head. "I am grateful for all I have. I have a way of earning money, and my family, and food in me stomach, and a roof o'er my head, and you..."

Elijah nodded and looked down. "I am so very sorry. I know exactly how you feel. You can't complain because you have things others would love to have, but you can't help it. What you are lacking is something that makes you feel really sad." He looked at her and smiled sadly. "You're a kind girl with a strong spirit, I am sure there is someone out there for you. They wouldn't make you just feel happy but feel love and being loved. I want that very much for you.'

Her eyebrows nearly touched as she stared at Elijah. She didn't understand him. Rose knew that she was plain. But they were both lonely and sad and they were right here. One moment he was complementing her and praising her for her good character. And the next moment he seemed entirely disinterested.

Elijah blinked and looked at her. He seemed as shocked as she was. "W-what? What did I say?"