THE ART OF FALLING

*Chapter 12: Unspoken Words*

I stood there, frozen, as Elijah waited for me to speak.

The note he handed me still clutched in my hand.

"Wait," I'd said, but now I didn't know what to say.

Elijah's eyes searched mine, hope and uncertainty mingling.

"Ava, I understand if you need space," he said softly. "But please don't shut me out completely."

I took a deep breath, trying to articulate my jumbled emotions.

"Elijah, I...I don't know what I want right now," I admitted, feeling vulnerable.

Elijah nodded slowly.

"I'm not going anywhere," he said. "But can I ask one thing?"

I hesitated, then nodded.

"Do you still see Julian when you look at me?" Elijah asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

My heart skipped a beat.

I didn't know how to answer.

I felt a surge of irritation.

"Why are you asking that?" I snapped, my tone sharper than intended.

Elijah's eyes narrowed slightly.

"I want to understand," he said, his voice measured.

"Understand what?" I shot back, frustration simmering.

"Us. You. Your feelings."

I shook my head.

"You can't understand," I said, my voice cracking.

Elijah's jaw clenched.

"Ava, talk to me."

I laughed bitterly.

"You want me to talk? You have no idea what it's like to lose someone."

Elijah's face fell.

"Ava, I'm trying—"

"Try harder!" I exclaimed, tears streaming down my face.

The room fell silent.

Elijah's eyes locked onto mine, pain and confusion etched on his face.