ELLE P.O.V
I drove fast, my fingers gripping the steering wheel as though it were the only thing tethering me to reality. My heart hammered so violently I could feel it in my throat. Each second dragged like an eternity, every red light mocking me with its slowness.
By the time I pulled up to Lucas’s place, the headlights bouncing across the long driveway, my hands were shaking so hard I almost dropped the keys. My legs felt weak, but I forced myself to climb out and march toward the door. I had to see my babies. I had to know they were safe.
I knocked hard, the sound echoing through the still night.
The door opened, and there stood Irina, her face soft but surprised.
“Hello, Elle!” she said warmly.
Relief flooded me for a second. “Hi, Irina. Is Lucas in?”
Her smile faltered. “No, n
