Derrick’s POV
I could tell that Eliana's mood had changed. It happened right after I asked her about her childhood. The pace at which she ate became abruptly slow, like that of someone who was burdened with intense thoughts. Seeing her that way only fueled my curiosity to know how her childhood had been. Was there trauma that she was now unpacking in her mind? Did something hurt her? Or use her? Maybe a close relative, someone that she trusted.
More and more questions poured into my mind but I kept them locked there, afraid that I would trigger her more than I might already have. As the silence went on, I kept my gaze on her, studying every expression that appeared on her face. Although she didn't meet my gaze, I was sure that she was aware of what I was doing.
All of a sudden, she d
