ELLIANA'S POV
As we walked out of the restaurant, Tom's arm brushed against mine, sending a spark of electricity through my body. I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt, knowing that I was leading him on, all while keeping secrets with his father.
The cool night air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, but I couldn't enjoy it, my mind consumed by the tangled web of relationships I had found myself in.
"Thanks for tonight, Tom," I said, trying to sound casual, as if I wasn't hiding a million secrets. "I had a great time."
Tom smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and my heart skipped a beat. I felt like I was living a double life, one where I was carefree and laughing with Tom, and another where I was trapped in a cycle of secrets and lies with his father.
"Anytime, Ellie," Tom said, his voice low and smooth. "I'm always happy to spend time with you."
We walked in silence for a moment, the only sound being the crunch of gravel beneath our feet. The streetlights
