CHAPTER Ninety My Pawn

  Elena's POV.

  I swatted at the persistent hand, muttering, "Derek, leave me alone, I want to sleep." But the tapping continued, forcing me to open my eyes.

  To my surprise, it was the maid standing over me, a gentle smile on her face. My face flushed with embarrassment as I quickly sat up, apologizing, "Oh, sorry, I thought... never mind."

  She nodded understandingly, reminding me, "You're running late for school, ma'am."

  I nodded, still disoriented, and got out of the grass, wondering why Derek hadn't woken me up as I had hoped. I had been looking forward to watching the sunrise with my head on his chest.

  I stumbled inside, yawning, and glanced at the clock. "Damn, it's almost 8 am!" I muttered under my breath, rushing to get ready.

  I quickly threw on my clothes and headed to the bathroom to freshen up. After a swift makeover, I emerged feeling more alert and stylish in my red mini dress, minimal makeup, and sunglasses.