Chapter 4

"Hi." My voice cracked as I squeaked out the word. "Hi," I repeated, louder this time, though my nerves rattled.

"Elena? What do you need to talk about?" His tone was direct, almost demanding.

I swallowed hard. "I—I think we should meet. This can’t be said over the phone."

There was a long pause. "Alright," he finally said. "I'll be back tomorrow. Where?"

I blinked, surprised by how easily he agreed. I hadn't expected this.

I ran a hand through my hair. "Uh... my place?" I offered weakly, though I could tell Leila was stifling a laugh.

She shot me a look and mouthed café before nodding towards the door.

He chuckled lightly. "Fine. Two o’clock. Does that work?"

I nodded quickly, heart pounding. "Yeah, perfect."

"See you then," he said before hanging up.

I exhaled sharply, eyes closing as anxiety clenched my chest. Tomorrow. It had to be done.

Leila’s voice cut through my thoughts. "He sounds hot."

I snapped my eyes open. "He is."

I couldn't help but remember how he looked at me that night—powerful, magnetic. I’d been drawn to him instantly.

Leila smirked. "He thinks you're after a repeat of that night."

I groaned. "No. It's not like that."

She mimicked his voice dramatically, "My place," before bursting into laughter.

"Not funny," I muttered, but she was still laughing.

At the coffee bar