Chapter 9
A Friend's Concern
Elena notices Jonas's erratic behavior and secretive nature. Her pragmatic instincts warn her something is wrong, but Jonas, ashamed, keeps his digital entanglement hidden.
Elena watched Jonas from across the bustling café, a knot of unease tightening in her stomach. He was supposed to meet her an hour ago, but he’d arrived late, his eyes darting around the room as if expecting someone, or something, to appear from the shadows. He’d barely touched his coffee, his fingers drumming a frantic, silent rhythm on the tabletop. The vibrant spark that usually lit his face seemed dimmed, replaced by a restless anxiety that clung to him like a damp cloak.
“Jonas?” Elena’s voice was soft, laced with concern. “Are you alright? You seem… far away.”
He flinched, his gaze snapping to hers, then quickly away. A forced smile flickered across his lips. “Far away? No, Elena, just… thinking. Big plans, you know? Dreaming of that little apartment by the park.” He gestured vaguely with his hand, but his eyes weren't on her; they were fixed on his phone, which he’d placed face down between them, yet his attention was clearly tethered to it.
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