Chapter 75

The warm water ran over my shoulders, washing away the sweat and the ache of the morning. But it couldn't wash away my thoughts. My body still felt the phantom pressure of the training—every touch, every sharp movement.

And I felt him.

I closed my eyes, letting the steam fill my lungs for just a second. Then, my phone vibrated on the counter outside. I froze. I tried to ignore it, but it buzzed again.

Harder. Persistent.

I killed the water, wrapped myself in a towel, and stepped out. The screen was glowing in the dim light of the room.

Owen: You disappeared.

A long pause, then another bubble appeared.

Owen: Was I too late?

My chest tightened. The words were so simple, yet they cut deep. I stared at the glowing text for a long time, my damp skin shivering in the cool air. Should I tell him I was okay? Should I tell him that everything had already changed?

I let out a shaky breath and hit the lock button