~Elsie's POV
I moved past him slowly, careful with every step, heading back into the room. I sat down on the bed without looking at him directly, my wet clothes sticking uncomfortably to my skin, but I did not care enough to change right away.
There was silence behind me for a moment. Then I felt him move closer again.
I tensed immediately.
"Elsie," he said gently, stopping a short distance away. "You need to change. You will catch a cold like this."
I did not look at him.
My hands stayed folded tightly in my lap.
"I am fine," I said quietly.
It was not really true, but it was easier than explaining anything. He stayed where he was for a moment longer, like he was deciding whether to push or not.
Then he spoke again, softer this time.
"Please," he said. "Just change into something dry." I did not respond immediately.
The room felt too heavy again as everything was pressing down on me at once. Finally, I gave a small nod, not looking at him, just acknowledging the words.
