BOOK 3: CHAPTER 60 -ELAINE- It was a cozy Saturday afternoon. I was nestled into the couch, a steaming cup of tea in hand, soft jazz floating through the air, and a half-read novel resting lazily on my lap. Suddenly, a knock echoed from the door, sending a jolt of excitement through me. I smiled
BOOK 3: CHAPTER 59 -ELAINE- Duncan had been in a dark mood ever since. Something felt off, and I could sense it radiating from him. During the drive home after the event, he was silent. When I finally broke the silence and asked if he was okay, he offered me that stiff half-smile, the one that ra
BOOK 3: CHAPTER 58 -ELAINE- I never enjoyed those big gatherings. There were too many lights, too many people, and too much noise. My jacket always felt uncomfortable, and my tie squeezed my neck. I always wanted to leave, but somehow, I could never bring myself to do it. I went because it was
BOOK 3: CHAPTER 57 -ELAINE- It was becoming increasingly difficult to hold back the smile that crept onto my face whenever I looked at Duncan. We were stepping into something new together, something genuine and tender, with an undeniable spark that felt both exhilarating and a bit overwhelming.
BOOK 3: CHAPTER 56 -ELAINE- I nodded my head, unable to talk but still I needed him to know that I'm a virgin. “ I have never done this before,” I said to him, almost feeling embarrassed. He lifted my head and I could feel the sincerity in his eyes. “ We.. don't.. have.. to.. I will.. wait.. for
BOOK 3: CHAPTER 55 -ELAINE- By the time we pulled into my driveway, the night had transformed into something soft and each moment stretching out like gold thread. Duncan switched off the engine, and for a heartbeat, we sat in silence, comfortable and satiated from dinner. I caught his gaze in