20

Silence hung between them for a moment, tension crackling in the confined space of the car. Chandler sighed softly, his gaze softening. "I'm sorry, Elena. I didn't mean to catch you off guard. I guess I was just desperate. We can get another room if you would prefer and then I'll drive you back home in the morning."

Elena's frustration began to subside as she observed Chandler's earnest attempt to make amends. Despite her initial vexation, she recognized his thoughtful intentions, but she still didn't like that he'd booked only one room. Softening her expression, she nodded slightly. "Okay, we'll figure it out. Just wish you'd told me earlier."

Chandler glanced at her apologetically, his eyes filled with sincerity. "I know, and I'm truly sorry. I just… I wanted you to like me, but if after tonight, you still don't want to go out with me, then I'll back off"

He said it flippantly, but there was an edge to his words. Elena stared at him for a moment. If she told him about the way she u