Chapter 14: Confrontations and Choices

Not far away, a car slowly pulled up in front of me.

It was a late-model Chevy, windows tinted just enough to look expensive without being ostentatious. The engine purred quietly, the kind of sound that says, “I’m not leaving until you notice me.”

The window rolled down, revealing Derek’s handsome face.

He looked tired, a five o’clock shadow dusting his jaw. There was a vulnerability in his eyes that almost made me want to forgive him for everything.

“Get in, I’ll drive you.”

His tone was gentle, almost apologetic. I could tell he wasn’t used to being refused.

I refused coldly. “No, thank you.”

I tightened my grip on my suitcase, hoping my resolve wouldn’t falter.

He was persistent—if I didn’t get in, he would just follow me with the car.

Derek was always stubborn, the kind of man who never let go of a problem until it was solved—his way.

“It’s hard to get a cab here. Get in.”

His words were practical, but his eyes searched mine, looking for any sign that I’d changed.

Looking at the endless road ahead, I finally gave in.

I slid into the passenger seat, the familiar scent of leather and cologne hitting me instantly. Some things never change.