Chapter 9. You're Just Following Orders

Ally's POV

"You shouldn't be wandering these halls alone." His words carry the weight of a command, yet there's a tremble in them that reveals his fear for my safety.

"Since when do you care about what should or shouldn't be done?" I challenge, my tone lighter than I feel. "Besides, Nathan asked you to save me, didn't he? So, technically, you're just following orders."

A flicker of surprise crosses Elliot's features, the corners of his mouth twitching downwards. "Ally, it's not that simple- "

"Isn't it?" I interrupt, unwilling to hear excuses, even from him. "I don't need to be rescued anymore, Elliot. I'm finding my way now."

His mouth opens, then closes, a silent struggle playing across his face. But I press on, eager to share the lightness in my chest.

"Things are changing," I continue, my voice gaining strength as I spea