Elise's pov

Marcus’s sudden appearance rooted me to the spot. My throat tightened, my mouth dry as sandpaper.

Oh, no no no. What do I do? Oh my God. I panicked internally but tried my best to stay calm on the outside.

“Hi, Marcus.” I said with a nervous chuckle.

He shot me a dry look.

“I—uh—I just…” I stammered, fumbling for a believable excuse. My heart raced so fast I could hear it in my ears.

Marcus’s brow furrowed, his voice was still calm but laced with ...