Locked in a lifelong rivalry, Lena and Theo go way back - but do they really know each other?
When Theo goes to college, leaving Elena, his best friend's annoying sister he grew up with, behind at his home town, he thinks that she will never be in...
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I swallow hard, my mouth suddenly dry as I struggle to find the right words.
What is Isa even doing here?
Stop panicking, Elena. Just act natural and be cool.
I stand up, pull myself together and look at her again.
"I, uh, had an appointment," I finally say, my voice barely above a whisper.
Isa's expression softens, concern flickering across her features.
"Is everything okay?" she asks, taking a step closer.
I nod, forcing a smile that feels more like a grimace.
"Yeah, everything's alright. I just... I have to go."
Without waiting for a response, I turn to the door and practically sprint out of the lobby, my heart pounding in my chest.
Guilt builds up in my chest as I leave Isa behind, but I can't bear the thought of facing her, not when I'm barely holding myself together.
A mix of emotions is raging inside me and I know I can't keep hiding forever, but right now, I need time to process and gather the courage to share my truth with Isa. Until then, I have to keep running, avoiding, and hope that soon I'll find the strength to face everything.
With a fast paced walk I just go in Starbucks' direction without letting anything or anyone slow me down.
Until...
"ELENA!" I hear a voice from afar.
Isa.
I should know she wouldn't give up.
"ELENA, STOP RUNNING DAMN IT." she yells. "I DIDN'T BRING CLOTHES APPROPRIATE TO RUN TODAY, STOP IT."
I can't help but laugh and end up having to stop walking.
"What is happening to you? Why are you acting so weird? You just sprinted out the door back there. What the hell happened?" she asks.
"I'm sorry." I finally say.
"So, are you gonna tell me what happened?"
"What were you doing there?"
I try to change the subject in a subtle way hoping that Isa doesn't notice.
