FIFTY

ELISE’S POV

I was halfway through breakfast when Hannah strolled in, her expression inscrutable. Just as I was about to take a bite of my eggs, her words halted my hand mid-motion.

“Mrs. Hernandez requests your presence in her room, ma’am.”

My gaze shot up, my stare sharpening in surprise, “Lauren?” I asked, incredulously, dropping my fork with a clatter.

She nodded, “Yes, ma’am.”

“Why?” I demanded, my mind running in circles.

She opened her mouth to respond, but I cut her off, “You know what? It’s fine. You’re too dumb to know anything. You can go,” I waved her off dismissively, and she bowed slightly before sauntering out.

After the disastrous incident at the gala, I had retreated into myself. I hadn’t spoken much to anyone, not even Miguel. Of course, he didn’t bother to engage with me either. We had become more like strangers sharing a space.

Most importantly, I avoided Lauren and David at all costs. I would wait until they were done having their meal before having mine. Just as t