ELLA Stepping into Alec’s apartment a small wave of panic rushes over me. It is a small studio with only a kitchenette and a small bathroom that is only blocked off by a single wall. There isn’t much in the way of furniture. Just a queen-sized bed with a mattress that looks to be about thirty years old and a small table with a single chair. Despite the condition of the furniture, the apartment is surprisingly neat and tidy. “I shouldn’t have called you,” I say as I glance around the apartment one more time. “I will be a burden.” Turning I try to make my way to the door to leave, but Alec grabs me by the arm and pulls me back. I slam into his chest and a wave of embarrassment rushes to my cheeks. Dropping my arm, Alec takes several steps back from me and scratches the back