Chapter 124

VALERIA’S POV “Elijah, are you going to tell me where the hell you’ve been?” I scolded, barely containing my frustration as we walked toward his house. He still hadn’t let go of my hand, but for once, I didn’t mind. I was too relieved to see him back, safe and in one piece. He exhaled slowly. “I know. I’ve already apologized to Tony and the others for bailing on all of you like that. But I needed to get away, Valeria.” I frowned, searching his face. Something was wrong. His eyes—usually sharp, always calculating—held a haunted look, like he was carrying a burden too heavy to bear alone. “Elijah… is everything okay? This isn’t normal for you,” I said, my voice softer now. He didn’t answer right away, just kept walking, his grip on my hand tightening slightly before he finally spoke. “I just needed some time alone to clear my head,” he admitted. “I’m deep into my feelings, Valeria, and I—I feel lost. I have no idea where to go or what to do.” Hearing that from Elijah sent a strange chill