章 103: Chapter 103 : Unplanned Detours

Ella

I come home feeling completely hollow, my mind replaying the exchange with Charlotte in endless loops. When I finally push the door open, I drop my bag on the floor with a thud and make my way to the bathroom.

The steam from the hot shower is a welcome relief. I let the water pound against my back. I stay in there longer than I probably should, letting the water soothe me.

When I finally step out of the shower, the bathroom mirror is completely fogged over. I towel off, wrapping it tightly around my body before heading back into my room. The cool air greets my damp skin as I rummage through my dresser. Pajamas sound like the perfect solution to ending this day—comfortable, soft, and far from glamorous. I'm halfway into deciding which oversized tee to throw on when my phone buzzes on the bed.

Who the hell could be calling me at this hour?

I pick up the phone and squint at the screen. Elijah. Of course. The corners of my lips twitch upward despite myself. I answer.