Elvira

Brielle’s laughter rang beside me, sweet and light like a spring breeze, but it barely reached me. I forced a smile, nodding when she pointed out how pretty the flowers looked this season. The gardens bloomed with life, yet I felt hollow. 

I could still feel the weight of Jaxon’s silence earlier. The way he walked past me like I didn’t exist… like I was invisible.

“I’ll go grab us something warm,” Brielle said. “You look like you could use it.”

I nodded, still not speaking. When she was out of sight, I exhaled sharply, pushing myself off the bench. My legs moved before I could think. I just...