Chapter 91

Trevor

The streets were quiet as we made our way to Elaine's apartment. Her steps were slow, almost hesitant, and I stayed close, matching her pace. She kept her eyes down, lost in her thoughts, and I could feel the heaviness that hung between us. The night air was cool, but there was a tension in it, a reminder of everything that had gone wrong tonight. I didn't try to break the silence. I knew it wasn’t the right time for words.

Her shoulders were slumped, and she took deep breaths now and then, like she was trying to calm herself. I stayed by her side, close enough to be there but gave her space. She needed that. I no longer want to add to the suffocation she was feeling at that moment.

When we finally reached her apartment door, I hesitated, unsure if I should say anything. I wanted to make sure she was okay, but I didn’t want to push her.

Yet in the end, I asked gently, "Are you okay now?"

My voice was soft, barely above a whisper. I just needed to hear her say it, even if it wa