The next morning, Talia groggily woke up to the persistent ringing of her phone, her heart heavy with the weight of her conflicted emotions. Ely's name flashed on the screen, and she hesitated for a moment before reluctantly answering, her voice laced with guilt.
"Hey," Ely's warm voice greeted her. "Love, I was wondering how you're doing. Are you okay?"
Talia sighed, feeling the weight of her own deception. "I'm fine, just a bit tired," she replied, avoiding his concerned gaze, even though he couldn't see her over the phone.
Ely's concern deepened. "Are you sure? You sound a bit off. Is something bothering you?"
She hesitated before fabricating a half-truth. "I'm just caught up with my modeling work," she said, trying to sound convincing. "I have a busy day ahead."
There was a pause
