After some more conversation, it was finally time to say goodbye for the day.
"You should enjoy the nightlife while you have time, Ella," Elliot said as they walked out of the café, his tone casual but carrying that teasing charm of his.
"I'll try," Ella replied, her voice more comfortable now.
"Anna will show you—she knows every spot in this city. And if you ever need help with anything…" He reached out, took her phone without asking, and quickly saved his number. "…call me."
Ella nodded, quietly pocketing her phone.
Anna's jaw tightened as she watched, her annoyance barely hidden, while Lindsey trailed behind, smirking at the tension.
Elliot gave them one last wave before slipping into his sleek car. The engine purred, and he drove off into the fading evening. Ella stood there, watching until his taillights disappeared.
"So… what do you think of him?" Anna asked as they waited by the gate for her mom.
"He's good. I don't know why you hate him," Ella admitted with a small smile.
"Whatever," Anna muttered.
"By the way, how do you know him? You didn't mention it before."
Anna's face darkened. Her voice dropped. "I'll tell you later."
Seeing her expression, Ella didn't push. Lindsey soon left on her motorbike, and minutes later, Anna's mom arrived.
"So, how was the day, girls?" Emily asked warmly.
"It was good, Aunty Emily," Ella replied.
"Yeah… it was okay, Mom," Anna answered flatly.