Silence hung between them for a moment, tension crackling in the confined space of the car. Chandler sighed softly, his gaze softening. "I'm sorry, Elena. I didn't mean to catch you off guard. I guess I was just desperate. We can get another room if you would prefer and then I'll drive you back home in the morning."

Elena's frustration began to subside as she observed Chandler's earnest attempt to make amends. Despite her initial vexation, she recognized his thoughtful intentions, but she still ...