Sophia remained silent as Alexander reluctantly tore his gaze away from her and strode out the door.

His chest felt heavy, as if something was weighing on him, making it hard to breathe.

When he returned to Eli's place, he found Ivy up and having a meal. He walked over to her.

"Alex," Ivy called out.

Alexander gave a mild "mm-hmm" and sat down beside her to eat.

After finishing their meal, he stood up and gestured to Ivy, ...