I turned quickly, my heart leaping…
And there he was—Kiefer, leaning casually against his shiny black car, lollipop already in his mouth.
"Took you long enough," I said, crossing my arms.
He smirked. "You're up early. Can't even hide in your room now."
"Shut up," I muttered, but a tiny smile slipped out anyway.
Kiefer opened the passenger door. "Hop in, Section E Princess."
"Ugh, don't call me that."
"Too late. It sticks." 😏
I slid into the seat, the cool leather hugging my arms as he pulled out of the driveway. The city lights blurred by as we drove toward Higher Value International School — Section E.
For a moment, the silence was comfortable. Warm, even.
Then he glanced at me.
"You okay?"
I forced a smile.
"Yeah. Just… don't be late dropping me off."
He studied my face for a second, but didn't press.
"Alright, Jay. I'll make sure the King of Assholes doesn't get there first."
I laughed softly, despite everything.
Maybe heading to Section E with Kiefer wasn't the worst thing in the world.
…Probably.