Chapter 89. Captured

That night, Calla gently stroked Eli’s hair as he slowly drifted off to sleep. He’d begged her to read him a bedtime story, and she couldn’t say no. It had been so long since she’d tucked him in like this.

She watched him closely, his eyelashes fluttering before finally resting still, his eyes fully closed, and his breathing slow and steady.

A small smile tugged at his lips even in sleep.

Calla stayed a little longer, just listening to the quiet rhythm of his breath, until she was sure he was deep asleep.

She kissed his forehead softly, then slipped out of his room, closing the door behind her with a quiet click.

Back in her own room, she picked up her phone. It had been days since she’d spoken to Luxe. She dialed the number, and her friend answered on the second ring.

“Hey, gurllll!” Luxe said, sounding thrilled. “I’ve been worried sick bout you! Where have ya been?”

Calla sat on the edge of her bed, voice low. “So much has happened these p