Security Or Gilded Cage

Meliza's POV

Something felt off when I woke up the next morning. An emptiness I couldn't quite place.

I lay still for a moment, staring at the ceiling, willing myself to ignore the strange ache settling in my chest. But I already knew the reason behind it.

Ethan had left, and despite the insults and humiliation he had thrown my way, his presence in the farmhouse had stirred something inside me, something I couldn't quite define. And I hated myself for it. For missing him.

Shoving the thought aside, I forced myself out of bed and took a long shower, hoping the hot water would wash away whatever remnants of last night still clung to me.

I had planned on skipping breakfast, but I owed it to my friends to say a proper goodbye. I wouldn't leave like Ethan had without a word, without a goodbye.