Chapter 6 - A Billionaire’s MockeryTwo weeks passed. Autumn deepened into late November, bringing chilly winds and early darkness.
Despite Brendan’s threats, nothing changed. I continued driving Theo home after practice when Sloane had late shifts. Our conversations in the car grew longer, deeper. He talked about his dream of playing college ball, about his mom’s long hours, and about how much he looked forward to our quiet drives.
Sloane and I had begun spending more time together as well. Sometimes she’d invite me in for dinner after I dropped Theo off—simple meals of soup or pasta eaten around the kitchen table. We talked about everything: my upbringing in a small farming town, her years in nursing school, the quiet dreams we’d both set aside to take care of others.
One Tuesday evening, after Theo had gone upstairs to study, Sloane and I sat on the front porch, wrapped in thick jackets, sharing a thermos of hot tea.
“I was so afraid of him for so long,” she said softly, looking out at the dark street. “Brendan made me feel like I was nothing without his wealth. He used to tell me that if I ever left, I’d drown.”
“You’re not drowning, Sloane,” I said, resting my hand over hers on the porch railing. “You’re the strongest person I know.”
She looked up at me, her eyes reflecting the warm glow of the porch light. “I couldn’t have done this season without you, Caleb. Theo smiles more now. He feels safe.”
“I care about him,” I whispered, stepping closer to her. “And I care about you.”
She leaned in, her hand rising to touch my jaw gently. Our lips met in a quiet, tender kiss—sweet, honest, and long overdue.
Suddenly, bright headlights swept across the driveway. A black SUV slammed its brakes near the curb.
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The driver’s door flew open, and Brendan stepped out into the night air, looking furious.
“Well, well,” Brendan sneered, marching up the driveway. “The gym teacher finally gets his prize.”
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