The clock was driving her mad.
Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.
Almost like it was mocking her. Dorcas bit her lip and shook her head. It didn't seem to bother Marlene very much, who sat in the corner of the Order headquarters playing a game of chess with James and Lily, whilst losing spectacularly.
The tears sprung to her eyes again, and she shook her head once more. No. No. Not right now, it wasn't the time, really. How could Marlene even stand this - this noise, the people? Dorcas only liked the two of them. While James and Lily were great - really - she needed Marlene and couldn't help but being selfish.
Where Marlene was concerned, anyway.
Marlene laughed at something James said and motioned for Dorcas to come over with her hand.
Although she didn't really want to, basic need had her making a beeline for Marlene and sitting close, thighs touching. She could feel the heat radiating off her - either she herself was extremely cold or Marlene was getting too warm.
James and Lily excused themselves for a second.
A featherlight touch turned her head, forcing her to look at her.
"Hey," she whispered. "Hey. No crying, okay? We only have two options. The other is laughing."
Dorcas nodded. Don't let the dark blow out your light, Marlene always said.
December prompt #50 for the lovely Monthly Slash-tastic Drabble Challenge.