บท 121: Can't Go Back

The smell of the food was inviting, but Elena's mind was still preoccupied with the unexpected encounter with Phil.

"Everything looks great," she said, trying to muster enthusiasm.

"Thanks," Dan replied, his eyes warm. "I thought you might appreciate a nice dinner after such a busy day," he said and Elena flashed him an appreciative smile.

They sat down, and for a few moments, the only sounds were the clinking of cutlery and the soft murmur of conversation about the wedding. Elena took a bite of the pasta Dan had brought, the flavors rich and comforting, but her mind was elsewhere.

Willing herself to focus, Elena decided to ask what she had wanted to ask the very moment she saw Dan at her door.

"Dan, what are you actually doing here?" she asked and Dan looked up from his plate, his expression sincere as he merely shrugged.