The morning light was too bright. I sat at my small desk, staring at a half-empty cup of coffee and a textbook I hadn’t turned a page of in thirty minutes. My body felt heavy, and my skin still felt sensitive from the night before. Every time I closed my eyes, I saw Alaric’s office. I felt the sting of his hand and the warmth of his chest.
I was a mess. I was a walking disaster.
My phone buzzed on the wood, the vibration making me jump. I picked it up, my heart sinking when I saw the name on the screen.
Silas: I’m downstairs, Elena. Come out.
I stared at the message. My thumb hovered over the power button. I didn't want to go down. I didn't want to deal with his smooth voice or the way he made me feel like a doll he had bought and paid for.
Me: I’m studying, Silas. I can’t.
The reply
