**Elena’s POV**
The air in the house has been really cold since we returned from my father’s place almost a week ago. Stefano barely spoke to me, and it was really starting to piss me off.
I walked into the living room, and there he was, sitting on the couch, scrolling through his phone, with that blank, distant look he always wore.
“Good morning,” I said, my smile feeling stiff and unnatural on my face as I snugly adjusted my sweater around my shoulders.
He made a sound in his throat, like he couldn't be bothered with actual words.
I chose the chair farthest from him and sat down, crossing my arms tightly over my chest to avoid staring at him.
I hated it.
I hated him right now. I was tired of feeling invisible.
God, I felt unbearably alone.
I needed to speak before I lost my mind
