Chapter 12: Shadows of Choice (Elena's POV)
I wake up alone in the big bed back at the penthouse. Sheets cool on one side where Matteo should be. The clock on the nightstand says 3:17 a.m. City lights glow soft through the windows but the room feels dark heavy like the air itself is pressing down.
My body still aches from everything before the bar the back room the tears. But the ache in my chest hurts worse. I pull my knees up hug them tight try to breathe slow. The robe from last night lies crumpled on the floor I don't remember taking it off. Maybe Matteo did. Maybe I did. Everything blurs.
I slip out of bed pad barefoot to the living room. Lights are low Matteo sits on the couch glass of whiskey in hand staring at nothing. Luca sleeps in the armchair head tipped back mouth open soft
