Charlotte moved quickly up the stairs and halfway through the upstairs hallway, she nearly collided with Elize.
Her Big Sister stood there in simple clothes, having just come from the direction of the bedrooms.
The sudden near-collision made both of them stop short.
Elize's eyes widened slightly in surprise, then softened with quiet concern as she looked at Charlotte's disheveled appearance.
"Charlotte? You're awake… Are you alright? You look-"
"Big Sister, I will talk to you later."
Without another word, she stepped to the side and walked straight past her Big Sister.
Elize turned slightly, watching her go with a faint frown.
Charlotte reached her door, pushed it open, and stepped inside.
Elize remained standing where she was for a moment longer "What's up with her?"
The hallway fell into a brief silence.
Then, from the direction of the stairs, familiar footsteps approached.
Elize turned her head just as Brandon appeared at the top of the staircase.
