Elijah’s POV After we said our goodnight, I began clearing the dishes from the table. Abigail had offered to help, but I gently refused, telling her she should rest since she had a long day. She gave me a grateful smile and headed toward her room, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I washed the dishes quietly, the sound of running water filling the silence of the apartment. Once the kitchen was clean, I made my way back to my bedroom. I turned on the shower, letting the warm water wash away the tension and stress of the day. The events of the evening replayed in my mind, especially the way Abigail had smiled during dinner. It was a small victory, but it meant everything to me. After drying off, I slumped onto my bed, feeling the exhaustion of the day catching up with me. I stared a

