Chapter 18 Shadows of the Past

Lucas and Eleanor stepped out of his mother's house, the weight of unspoken words and emotions hanging heavily between them. The visit, meant to be a warm introduction, had taken a turn neither of them had anticipated. They said their goodbyes, voices tinged with a formality that felt out of place, and climbed into the car. As Lucas started the engine, the familiar hum of the vehicle did little to fill the eerie silence that enveloped them. Lucas stole glances at Eleanor, her gaze fixed on the passing scenery, her face a mask of contemplation. Lucas knew Eleanor was dwelling in her past. There was a pain there, a silent torment that seemed to consume her thoughts, yet she kept it locked away, hidden behind a veil of stoicism. Lucas's heart ached to reach out, to offer comfort, to ask what haunted her so deeply, but he held back. He had expected Eleanor to bombard him with questions before they visited his parents' house – inquiries about his financial status, his family background,