Chapter 29

I picked up Lila’s jacket with a smile. Just as I was about to toss it back, my phone rang. Alex’s name appeared on the screen.

“Who is it?” Lila peered over. The moment she saw the name, her head snapped toward me.

I met her gaze.

“Answer it,” Lila urged, nudging my arm. “Hurry up!”

“Forget it,” I mumbled.

“How could you not answer?” Lila asked urgently. “Alex helped you immensely. Would you have gotten out of it so easily without him?”

That made me realize my hesitation was unwarranted. I pressed the call button.

But as the call connected, I felt speechless. Words failed me.

Silence stretched on the other end. Lila’s impatience grew; she waved her arms wildly, urging me to speak.

“Hello?” I finally managed.

“I thought you’d gone mute,” Alex said, his voice sharp.

I glanced at Lila, who was doubled over with laughter. “Do you need something?”

“Can we talk privately? I’m right in front of your university.” Alex’s voice, captivating as ever, sent a jolt through me.

I stood up, shocked. “What did you say?”

“Let’s talk,” he repeated calmly. I wanted to refuse, but remembering Mr. Hastings Sr.’s request, I bit back my protest. “Alright, I’ll be right there!”

I grabbed my things and went outside. A conspicuous Maybach sat waiting—undoubtedly Alex’s. I opened the door and got in.

The car smelled faintly of tobacco. Sitting in the passenger seat, I felt dazed.

“Have you gone mute again? Don’t you know how to greet someone?” Alex asked, glancing at me.

The atmosphere was incredibly awkward. Calling him by his first name felt impolite; “Al,” as I used to, was out of the question. “Good evening, Mr. Hastings,” I offered hesitantly, unsure of his reaction.

His expression didn't seem to approve.

After a moment, Alex let it pass. “How are things on your end?” he asked.

“It’s settled,” I replied, feeling guilty. The information he’d provided had been invaluable; that was my internal justification.

Alex nodded. “I had someone look into Kevin. He’s been involved in some legally questionable activities for a while now.”

I nodded; I’d suspected as much.

“Basically, it’s not safe for you to stay in the dormitory,” Alex said, his eyes fixed on the road. His tone shifted, his pace quickening. “If you’re not willing to move back to the Hastings residence, you can stay at my place. My house should be safer than where you…”