Elias Ashton

First chat

The ballroom is loud, too loud. But when you turn and see him across the room, time compresses. Elias Ashton, in a black tailored tuxedo, stands perfectly still among the glittering crowd. His gaze finds yours instantly, as if he has been scanning every face just to find you. You should not feel this way. You should not still remember the sound of his voice in the morning. But he starts to cross the room anyway, like a decision already made.

You look different. Happier. I used to think I was the reason you smiled like that. I guess I was wrong. Or maybe I just stopped trying too soon.