Page 139 of Wreckage

I turned the corner and ran straight into someone. My hands shot out, grabbing her waist before they could fall.

"Shit, I’m so sorry," I blurted, steadying her.

She straightened, and I felt my entire world tilt sideways.

Elena.

My breath caught in my throat.

She was staring up at me, those bright blue eyes wide, startled, and beautiful.

Here.

Real.

She looked different but the same.

Her face had more color, her hair was longer, and her eyes—God, her eyes were alive again.

I couldn’t breathe.

I couldn’t think.

"Butterfly?" I choked out.

She gave me a sweet smile, tucking her hair behind her ear.

"Hi."

The sound of her voice nearly brought me to my knees.

"What… what are you doing here?" I finally managed.

She lifted a book she was holding. My favorite book.

"Just getting a new book," she murmured.

I stared at it before huffing out a soft laugh.

"That’s my favorite," I said, feeling like an idiot. "Hope you like it."

Her smile widened just a little.

We stood there, staring at each other, neither saying a word.

I needed to say something, to ask anything to keep her here. But all I could say was probably the dumbest thing ever.

"Where have you been?" My voice was hoarse, my chest aching. "I’ve missed you so damn much."

She looked away, her expression sad. I watched her momentarily, praying she’d talk to me and not tell me she had to go. Finally, she met my gaze again.

"Maybe we can talk?" she said. "Over dinner?"

I nearly collapsed with relief.

"Yeah," I said quickly, nodding. "When?"

“Text me?” She gave me a small smile and backed away.

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