Reborn As Mr. Coldwell's Wife
Chapter 78: Better Than Alone

Chapter 78: Better Than Alone

Ellen sat in the cozy corner of the café, her thoughts distant as she absently stirred her coffee. Colleen’s words kept replaying in her mind, stubbornly refusing to let go. Did she like Mason? The question, simple yet heavy, gnawed at her. Usually, Ellen prided herself on knowing what she wanted, on being decisive and sure of her feelings. But now, sitting here in the café she visited with Helga, she found herself more uncertain than ever.

Across the table, Helga watched her closely, her sharp eyes picking up on every detail. The two women had decided to spend the morning together after Ellen had visited Helga’s house earlier to drop off souvenirs from Paris. What was meant to be a simple visit had turned into an unplanned coffee run.

Helga’s curiosity got the best of her as she noticed Ellen’s unusual quietness. She had seen Ellen lost in thought before, but there was something different about this.

The clinking of a spoon against the cup pulled Ellen out of her reverie, and she blinked, finally focusing on Helga’s concerned expression.

"What’s on your mind, hon?" Helga asked gently, her voice full of genuine concern. She leaned forward slightly, her blonde hair falling over her shoulder as she did.

Ellen hesitated, her fingers still wrapped around her coffee cup. How could she even begin to explain what was running through her mind? "Nothing," she said, offering a small, apologetic smile. "I was just lost in thought."

Helga raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced, but she didn’t push. "It’s okay," she said softly. "Anyone would need a moment to zone out."

Ellen nodded, grateful for Helga’s understanding. Yet, the truth was much more complicated than she was willing to admit. It wasn’t just about Paris or Mason; it was about everything that had led her to this point, and the realization that maybe she wasn’t as in control of her life as she thought.

"Paris must have been amazing," Helga said, trying to lighten the mood. "You must have had a great time."

Ellen smiled, though it was faint. "It was," she replied, her voice soft. "The city was beautiful, the sights were breathtaking."

They continued to chat, sharing small stories about their recent experiences, with Ellen recounting her visit to the Louvre and a few charming little boutiques she’d stumbled upon. Helga listened with genuine interest, occasionally commenting on how she would love to visit Paris herself one day. They laughed together as they shared stories about the quirks of traveling, the little mishaps that always seemed to happen but became funny in hindsight.

Ellen felt herself gradually relaxing, enjoying the simple pleasure of good company and conversation. Helga was such an easy person to talk to, and being with her always felt like a soothing break for Ellen’s often stressed-out mind.

As they continued to enjoy their snacks, Helga’s phone buzzed on the table, drawing her attention. She picked it up and glanced at the screen, her eyes widening slightly. "Oh, shoot," she muttered under her breath.

Ellen looked up, concern flashing across her face. "What’s wrong?" she asked, her tone gentle but curious.

Helga bit her lip, a small crease forming between her brows. "I completely lost track of time," she admitted, a hint of worry in her voice. "I’m supposed to have lunch with Jax, and I need to go now, or I’ll be late."

Ellen’s heart sank a little at the thought of their time together being cut short, but she quickly masked her disappointment with understanding. "It’s okay, really," she said, her voice steady and reassuring. "You should go; I don’t want you to be late."

Helga, however, looked torn, her eyes flickering between Ellen and the door. "But what about you?" she asked, concern evident in her tone. "I thought we’d have more time before my lunch with Jax. I didn’t mean to leave you like this. I really thought we’d be home by now, but I kind of lost track of time..."

Ellen smiled, trying to ease her neighbor’s worry. "Helga, it’s fine. It’s not like there aren’t any taxis left in the city," she said, her tone light and playful, hoping to put Helga at ease. "I’ll be fine. Go enjoy your lunch with Jax."

Helga still looked hesitant, clearly conflicted. She shifted in her seat, her fingers playing nervously with the edge of her napkin. "Are you sure? I feel bad leaving you here alone..."

Ellen reached across the table, gently squeezing Helga’s hand. "I’m sure," she reassured her, her smile warm and genuine. "You know I can handle myself. Besides, you’ll make it up to me next time, right?"

Helga finally returned the smile, though there was still a hint of reluctance in her eyes. "You’re the best, Ellen," she said softly. "I’m really sorry. I’ll definitely make it up to you, I promise."

Ellen laughed softly, letting go of Helga’s hand as her friend got up from her seat. "Don’t worry about it," she said. "Go, before you’re really late."

Helga hesitated for just a moment longer before finally standing up. She quickly moved around the table and pulled Ellen into a warm hug, holding her tightly for a moment. "Thank you," she murmured, her voice sincere. "I’ll see you soon, okay?"

Ellen hugged her back, feeling a wave of fondness for her friend. "Okay," she replied softly, stepping back as Helga pulled away. "Now go, before Jax starts wondering where you are."

Helga nodded, giving Ellen one last, apologetic smile before grabbing her coat and purse. "I really am sorry," she said one more time as she headed for the door.

Ellen waved her off, her smile reassuring. "It’s okay, Helga. I’ll see you later."

Ellen watched as Helga hurried out of the café. On one hand, she was genuinely happy for her—Helga and Jax were cute together. But on the other hand, Ellen couldn’t help but feel a little lonely now that Helga was gone.

Maybe I’ll just stay here a little longer, Ellen thought to herself. It was better than being alone in that big mansion.