After leaving the bathroom, Serena stealthily slipped into the walk-in closet. Standing before the mirror, she saw her reflection—a disheveled, flushed mess, with her cheeks blushing like pear blossoms in spring. After a bit of tidying up and waiting for the redness to subside, she opened the door.

To her surprise, Elliot was standing right outside.

He had no idea how long he'd been there, but his sudden presence made Serena jump, clutching her chest in shock.

"Elliot, ...