289

MAXINE

I nodded, not trusting myself to speak without crying. Ella was right. I needed to let myself grieve. The love I once had for Ronan still occupied my heart.

Lindsey reached out and held my hand. "We’re here for you, Maxine."

I squeezed her hand, grateful for their support. They were right. I didn’t have to go through this alone. I had them.

Maybe it wasn't so bad after all.

***

Going back to my old life felt like stepping into a strange place. There was the feeling of losing something. My apartment felt like a place from a faraway memory. Zel was gone and I was feeling so sad.

I was back from saying goodbye. I unlocked the door and stepped inside. The space was just as I’d left it. There was still dust over everything. At least, I had something to do with my time.

I took a deep breath. I hadn't lost everything. I was still okay.

I began to clean up slowly. Lindsey stopped by to help me out and together, we covered a lot. As I was cleaning, I heard a knock on the door.

“Are you