Elena got home much later than she intended to. Joshua had insisted on calling her a cab.
"It's too late for any buses to still be running, and you really shouldn't walk home by yourself," he had told her.
It was a kind gesture, but Elena didn't feel the need to profusely thank him for it. She knew he only wanted to convince her to take his offer of going into witness protection.
There was no other reason for him to smile so blindly at her. For his eyes to go so soft as he wished her a good night. For him to say so sincerely, so haltingly, that he hoped to see her again soon.
Elena pushed the thought from her mind as she entered her apartment. Her roommate Aria was lounging on the couch, watching some reality drama as she removed her makeup and accessories.
"Elena!" she cried. "Are
