Elena's POV
I didn't say much that morning.
Julian asked if I was okay, but I just nodded. I didn't have the words. Not then.
I'd come back late the night before, after seeing my aunt. Holding her. Watching her smile like the world hadn't shifted beneath our feet.
She didn't know she was being watched. And I didn't tell her.
I just sat beside her for a while and let the quiet do what words couldn't.
Now, I was back in my room, slipping on my heels like I was preparing for battle. Maybe I was.
I didn't look at Julian when I left.
Didn't kiss him goodbye.
I was already halfway out the door in my mind.
Because this wasn't about emotions anymore.
This was about survival.
I headed to the office.
Still breathing.
Still standing.
But different.
On the ride to work, my thoughts drifted.
I hated the feeling, but it sat with me—that I'd become a burden.
To Julian.
To everyone who kept showing up to clean the mess someone else created.
