The car ride back to Lucas’ house was steeped in silence, save for the muffled sound of Serena’s quiet sobs. Lucas kept his hands steady on the wheel, glancing at her from time to time but choosing not to speak just yet. He knew Serena needed a moment to gather herself, though his heart ached seeing her so broken.
Serena leaned her head against the window, her reflection distorted by tears. Every now and then, a sharp intake of breath would break her composure, but she pressed her lips tightly together, as if trying to bottle everything inside. Her mind was a whirlwind of memories and emotions—Eli’s face when he saw her, the way he had shouted that he loved her, and the echo of her own angered words telling him she was done.
She clutched the edge of her seat, fingers trembling. Lucas fin
