CHAPTER NINETY EIGHT

ELLA'S POV

I hurried into the restaurant, my gaze quickly scanning the crowd until I spotted Damien sitting in a far corner booth. With a small wave, I made my way over and slid into the seat across from him.

"Alright, Damien, what's this all about?" I asked, getting straight to the point. "What do you have to say about Trent?"

"Whoa, calm down, Ella. This is...a lot to unpack. Just sit tight and let me explain, okay?"

Damien flagged down a waitress. "Can we get two waters, please?"

As the waitress hurried off to fetch our drinks, I drummed my fingers impatiently on the table. "Well? I'm waiting. And I'm keeping someone else waiting too, you know."

Damien's brow furrowed. "Oh? And who might that be?" his gaze sharpened. "Wait, let me guess - it's Trent, isn't it?"

"No. Trent doesn't know I'm here."

Damien let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "Good. That's...probably for the best."

"Why shouldn't he know I'm here?" I pressed. "What are you about to say, Damien?"

Before he could