I scrutinize my appearance in the mirror to make sure I’m at least semi-presentable. Unfortunately, I look like death warmed over. The best thing I can do at this point is call it a day. I’ll let Sherry know I’m taking a few hours of sick time and head home. I can drive over to the compound once I feel better and tell my parents about Roman’s deception in person.

Just as I’m shutting down my computer, Ella pokes her head through the open doorway.

“Hey, Ms. B, do ...