-Elizabeth-
As I neared the exit of the building, my heart raced faster than my feet against the polished floor, each beat echoing the chaos swirling within me. The turmoil Zayn had stirred was a tempest I struggled to escape. I could almost feel the emotional whirlwind tugging at my very core with each step I took, and as I approached the exit, I refused to look back, terrified that if I did, I might falter once again. I focused on the cold metal of the door handle, a lifeline to freedom.
But his voice sliced through the bustling noise of the lobby, shattering the fragile cocoon of determination I had wrapped around myself. "Elizabeth!"
I squeezed my eyes shut briefly, wishing to drown out his voice. Pushing my feet to move faster, I told myself that running was the only option. It wa
