Chapter 42 : I Want You in My Life

*Lexie’s POV*

"Here's your key, Lexie. Room 12," Carol says softly, her eyes filled with concern as she hands it to me. "I know you're going through a lot right now, but I'm here if you need anything."

"Thanks, Carol," I reply, gripping the cold metal key tightly in an attempt to ground myself. I feel the weight of guilt bearing down on me, like a lead blanket smothering my chest. This was all my fault; I gave in to temptation and let my desire for Noland consume me, betraying my best friend Natasha in the process.

I push open the door to the modest room, its beige walls and generic floral prints offering little comfort. I can feel the tears threatening to spill over, and I take a deep breath, trying to keep them at bay.

"Lexie, are you sure you don't want me to stay?" Carol asks hesitantly, hovering in the doorway. She doesn’t talk much, but I can see she cares.

"Please, just leave me alone," I choke out, barely holding back my tears. "But thank you, really."