18

Upon entering, Josephine felt momentarily dazed. This place had scarcely changed at all in the past five years. The only difference was that Winifred's belongings were gone, replaced by many identical items she herself had once used. It was as if she had never left. “Josie, I've had your old room cleaned up. Let me know if you need anything.” Elijah led her to the door. Josephine nodded. A strand of hair slipped from her forehead. Elijah reached out to tuck it behind her ear, but Josephine turned her head away. “Thank you. I'll only stay one night. I'll leave early tomorrow morning.” Her tone was distant. Elijah's fingers curled, and he lowered his hand. His voice was hoarse. “Then you and Ellie... get some rest.” After Josephine entered, he called out again: “Josie...” Josephine turned back. “Is there something else?” Elijah's deep eyes lingered on her, as if something stirred within them. But in the end, he shook his head. "Nothing. I just wanted to say... Good night. Sweet dreams."