Exact Opposite

Edrick stopped the car in front of the hotel where Ellen was staying. The soft glow of the hotel's lights reflected on the car's windows, casting a warm ambiance inside. Ellen turned to Edrick with a grateful smile. "Thank you for the ride," she said, her voice sincere.

Edrick shrugged with a twinkle in his eye. "Don't mention it."

She already told Edrick earlier that it was fine if she went back on her own, but he didn't like the idea at all. Ellen appreciated his concern but felt a bit awkward about it. She unfastened her seatbelt, the click sounding louder in the enclosed space, and reached for the door handle. Just as she was about to step out, Edrick called out to her. "Ellen?"

She paused, turning to face him, her hand still on the door. "Yes?"

Edrick's expression was earnest, his gaze unwavering. "If Mason is too busy and you feel like you need a friend, you're more than welcome to look for me."