Chapter 22

Elena’s POV Mark quickly let go of my hand and stepped back. “It’s nothing serious,” he said, avoiding my gaze. Bella stood at the doorway, her eyebrows drawn together. “Nothing serious?” she repeated, her voice sharp. “You were practically clutching her hand, Mark!” My stomach sank, and a wave of panic rose. If Bella realized there was history between Mark and me, everything could fall apart. I wanted to tell her the truth, but before I could speak, she said something that caught me off guard. “Are you upset with her because of the promotion at T. E.? That was purely Eric’s decision, not hers,” Bella said firmly. Then she turned to me, her expression softening. “Elena, don’t worry about him. Some people just have short tempers. You’re my friend now, and I won’t let him make you feel uncomfortable.” I blinked, stunned. Relief washed over me but alongside it, a flutter I couldn’t name. Mark and I… our past wasn’t done with us. Mark muttered something under his breath, grumbling as he sp