The path leading to the lake was lined with tall, swaying pines. Birds chirped overhead, and the early sun danced across the water, casting glittering ripples over the serene surface. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the kind of silence that didn't feel heavy—it felt safe.
Ella walked beside Nicholas, her hands tucked into the sleeves of the oversized sweater she'd borrowed from his closet. His steps were easy, unhurried, occasionally glancing her way to check if she was still okay.
At first, it felt like a dream.
She hadn't breathed like this in months. The gentle breeze, the scent of pine, the stillness—it should have felt like heaven.
But it didn't.
Halfway down the path, her chest started to tighten.
She paused, hands trembling slightly.
Nicholas turned to her immediately. "You okay?"
"I just…" Her voice faltered. "I need to go back."
His brows furrowed. "Back where?"
"Home," she said, swallowing hard. "To the city. I can't stay here."
