Where could she go?

Who could she seek out?

Laura suddenly felt a wave of loneliness wash over her.

She walked back into her room, her thoughts drifting to Camila.

Yet, her opinion of Camila wasn't the best. She preferred solitude over seeking Camila's company.

Something troubling had happened to Camila at her workplace.

It wasn't about her professional skills.

Camila didn't climb the hospital ranks traditionally. She unexpectedly became the dean's successor.

This move didn't sit well with many, sparking resentment.

Troubles at work became a daily affair for her.

Her tools would mysteriously vanish. When she asked them, they would say that they didn't know.

The hospital's latest equipment, which was always in use by others, seemed off-limits to her.

Beyond work, even her meals weren't spared from pranks. Someone tampered with her food, adding excessive salt, making it inedible.

Frustrated, Camila dumped her meal and quenched her thirst with water before leaving the cafeteria.

The hospital's dean, also there for dinner, noticed her early exit and inquired, “Leaving so soon?"

Camila just nodded in response.

“Care for a chat?" he suggested.

Camila knew it would be inappropriate to refuse him so she agreed.

“Let's stroll in the garden after lunch. It'll be a nice break," he proposed, leading the way.

Camila trailed behind him without hurry.