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The cool night air hit Natasha's face as she stepped out of the club, her heart heavy with disappointment and confusion. She briskly walked down the dimly lit street, wanting to put some distance between herself and the pulsating music that still echoed in her ears.

Her phone buzzed with a message from Xavier, asking if everything was okay. Natasha replied with a brief "I'm fine" but couldn't shake the nagging feeling that lingered within her. The images of Elijah with that mysterious girl played on a loop in her mind, each repetition intensifying the ache in her chest.

As Natasha turned a corner, she found a quiet spot away from the bustling nightlife. Leaning against a brick wall, she took a deep breath, trying to collect her thoughts. A mix of anger, hurt, and confusion swirled within her, and she couldn't comprehend why Elijah would lead her on only to be seen with someone else.

Her phone buzzed again, this time with a call from Ashley. Natasha hesitated for a moment before answ