My phone vibrated on the table.
All three of us looked at it.
Elias.
His name glowed on the screen with a photo from our engagement picnic, his cheek pressed to mine, sunlight in his dark hair.
My stomach twisted.
The call ended.
A second later, a text appeared.
Where are you?
Then another.
Ella, this isn’t funny.
Then:
My mom said you disappeared from the hotel. Are you trying to embarrass me?
Rebecca held out her hand. “May I?”
I gave her the phone.
She read the messages without expression. “Do you want him to know you’re safe?”
“Yes,” I said immediately. Then, after a breath, “But I don’t want to talk to him.”
Rebecca typed with quick, precise fingers.
I am safe. I need space tonight. Please do not contact me further until tomorrow.
She showed it to me.
“Simple. No accusation. No emotion for him to use.”
