Chapter 23 : No Tears Left

“What?” Mia’s head is spinning in a whole new way.

Elon shakes his head, but she can’t read his expression. “This isn’t the way I wanted this to go, Mia. I need you to know that.”

“How could you say that, Elon? That’s not—it’s not funny.” Mia searches for any hint of a smile on his face, but she finds nothing.

“I’m not joking, Mia.” Elon’s voice goes softer, but so infinitesimally that Mia barely notices it.

“You’re firing me?” The weight of the moment finally settles in on her, hitting her like a punch in the stomach.

“Yes. I think it’s the best thing for both of us. This,” he gestures between them, “could never last. There’s no reason to drag it out any longer.”

Mia closes her eyes, her mouth twisting into a pained grimace. “I thought you loved me.”

“Love is for children, Mia. I…never want to feel the way I did tonight ever again.” Hurt flashes in Elon’s eyes, but it’s gone quickly.

An involuntary laugh gets stuck in Mia’s throat. “Oh, I get it. You’re a coward.”