16. Is it to your liking?

River’s voice barked out, sharp and urgent, as Valerie packed up her belongings into suitcases to move in with Antonio. Her hands trembled with nervous energy, and her heart raced in her chest. “Don’t do this, Valerie. This is insane,” he pleaded. It was two days after the event, and she had told Antonio to prepare for them to live with him. Antonio looked very excited and his excitement had seemed a little too much for her liking. River constantly badgered her about changing her mind but Valerie was firm with her decision. Valerie turned to face River, trying to stay calm and composed. “River, please. Just let me go. It’s going to be okay,” she said, though doubt gnawed at her insides. Desperate for support, River turned to Ellie, who stood beside Valerie with a worried expression on her face. “Ellie, tell Valerie she’s making a mistake,” he implored. Ellie let out a heavy sigh, her gaze shifting between the two of them. “Valerie, are you absolutely certain this is what you want?” she