Ella

I come home feeling completely hollow, my mind replaying the exchange with Charlotte in endless loops. When I finally push the door open, I drop my bag on the floor with a thud and make my way to the bathroom.

The steam from the hot shower is a welcome relief. I let the water pound against my back. I stay in there longer than I probably should, letting the water soothe me.

When I finally step out of the shower, the bathroom mirror is completely ...