Chapter 90: Something Unusual

The sky hung heavy with dark, swirling clouds, casting an ominous shadow over the nearly empty streets. The lively hum of the racetrack, situated in the city's eastern part, felt oddly out of place amidst the surrounding stillness. This track was one of the few in the country that hosted Formula 1 races, open to the public only during rallies or friendly competitions.

At the starting line, a few cars, their paint gleaming in the dim light, revved their engines, the sound a challenge thrown into the air. As the referee waved the flag, the cars shot forward with the ferocity of unleashed wild beasts. Though a simple race, the track seemed to ignite something primal, the competitive spirit of the men roaring to life.

The race intensified with each lap, the cars neck and neck, engines growling with effort. After five laps, Derek's sleek black Aventador crossed the finish line first, followed closely by Austin, then Caleb. As the three emerged from their cars, staff members rushed over, eager to check for damage.

Caleb pulled off his helmet, his hair slightly disheveled, and grinned in frustration. "Damn it! Let's race again!" The sting of defeat burned in his chest.

Austin smirked. "Doesn't matter how many times we race."

"Austin, that's a weak excuse. I was holding back. If you've got the guts, let's go again," Caleb retorted, watching Austin walk away, his challenge unanswered.

Austin casually loosened his racing suit collar. "Beating a rookie isn't exactly fun."

Fuming, Caleb flipped Austin off before turning to find Derek nearby, holding his helmet, his gaze distant. "Derek, what's got you so distracted?"

Derek blinked, as if returning to the present. "Wasn't there supposed to be rain tonight?"

"What?" Caleb paused, looking upward. "Who knows? Maybe the rain's not coming."

Derek then turned and walked away.

As Caleb and Austin emerged from the locker room, they spotted Derek by the floor-to-ceiling window, hands in his pockets, eyes fixed on the distant sky, lost in thought.

"You think Derek's got something on his mind?" Caleb mused. "Why else would he be hoping for rain?"

Austin followed Caleb's gaze, a playful smirk on his lips. "Maybe... he's just had a breakup?"

"Are you serious?" Caleb scoffed. "He hasn't even been in a relationship. How could he have a breakup?" Besides, Derek's wealth could secure him any woman he desired. The idea seemed absurd.

Austin remained silent, a mysterious smile playing on his lips.

Suddenly, Derek broke the silence. "It's raining."

Caleb and Austin exchanged a look, sensing a strange satisfaction in Derek's voice. Their eyes sparkled with mischief. Something wasn't right.

"Didn't you notice anything odd at Celtis Estate?" Austin asked, his tone casual yet curious.

Caleb pondered, his brow furrowing. "What's odd about it? Everything was fine."

Austin clicked his tongue, genuinely impressed by Caleb's obliviousness. "You're completely clueless."

Seeing Caleb's indignation, Austin pressed on, "Since Celtis Estate was built, when has Derek ever gone back there voluntarily?"

Caleb's eyes widened. "Wait... are you saying Derek... has a secret lover tucked away?" His eyes lit up with excitement. "No way, I've got to check out Celtis Estate tonight."

Austin gave him a heavy pat on the shoulder, his voice laced with warning. "Go ahead, man. I'll send flowers to your grave next year."

Caleb opened his mouth, but words failed him.