37. Return

"He is just playing with your mind," Eleanor repeated to herself, her voice firm as she stared at her reflection in the bathroom mirror. "And your confidence, Eleanor. Don’t let him win. Just don’t let him win."

She had taken a shower, hoping to wash away the lingering feelings of uncertainty and vulnerability that Kayden's words had stirred within her. Now, as she stood in front of the mirror, she was determined to regain her composure and face him with dignity.

With a deep breath, she stepped out of the bathroom, her resolve steeling her against the lingering doubts that threatened to cloud her mind. Kayden was already seated at the table, eating fruits as if nothing had happened.

"You're early," he remarked, glancing up at her. "I thought you wouldn’t come out until afternoon."

Eleanor rolled her eyes at his attempt to tease her, refusing to let his words affect her. The best course of action now was to ignore him, to act as if nothing had transpired between them.

She turned her at