Racing Tensions

Aurora, with a burst of indignation, pushed Heath away, shouting, "Don't touch me!"

Heath was taken aback and furrowed his brow and asked, "Rory, what's wrong?"

Aurora stood up abruptly, declaring, "I'm leaving!"

Heath grabbed her, but Aurora recoiled as if electrocuted, rubbing her hands in disgust. Heath, his face stern, questioned, "You're disgusted by me?"

Head bowed, Aurora remained silent. The dim light in the hallway barely illuminated the scene, leaving Heath unable to discern her expression. He only saw her downturned head and her silence.

"Rory, talk to me. What happened?" Heath persisted.

With her head still low, Aurora muttered, "Elowen was here."

"What?" Heath was confused. Aurora had met Elowen many times before, and he had made it clear he didn't like Elowen. He thought Aurora wouldn't be troubled by her.

"Elowen came, opened the door herself. Heath, why does Elowen have keys to this place?" Aurora lifted her head, confronting Heath with bright, clear eyes that seemed t