(Steven Sy's POV)
I barely remembered the drive home.
The city blurred past the windows—lights, billboards, tall buildings—but none of it stuck. My thoughts kept circling the same place, the same classroom, the same moment.
Lara blocking Michelle's path.
Her voice—quiet, controlled, but trembling underneath.
And Michelle…
walking away without looking back.
That part—
That part stayed in my chest like a stone.
At Home — Everything Quiet, Except Me
By the time I reached the gates of the estate, the sun was dipping low. The huge iron doors opened automatically, guards nodding as I drove through.
My father's car wasn't here.
Good.
I didn't have the energy to pretend I was fine.
Inside, the house was silent. Too silent. The marble floor amplified my footsteps as I walked toward my room, dropped my bag onto the couch, loosened my tie.
I sat on the edge of my bed.
Closed my eyes.
And instantly—
Michelle's face appeared behind my eyelids.
Her soft smile.
