Chapter 44: Chapter 44: In Too Deep

Ellie

Getting ready for the dance this time was so different for Ellie than it had been just a few short nights ago when she’d been so excited to see River. That night, she’d gotten dressed in a beautiful silver gown, excited to see what the night had to offer. Tonight, her dress was red. It was sparkly and caught the light like the other dress. Checking herself out in the mirror, she had to admit that she looked good. But she didn’t feel good. There was a heaviness in her heart she couldn’t quite understand.

River had seemed different. He’d been so standoffish at the award’s ceremony. Even when she’d kissed his cheek, he’d seemed withdrawn. It made her wonder what his motivation was for entering the tournament to begin with. Was it possible he was only there because he wanted to win, and now that he had to claim his prize, he was regretting it?