Chapter 19

Dominick's car pulled up beside Marissa's. Marissa jumped out, spotting Dominick emerging from his car instead of Julian. "Dom, what are you doing here?" she asked, hurrying toward him.

He walked with long, purposeful strides, his gaze fixed ahead. Something felt different. School matters were usually Marissa's, sometimes Julian's—never Dominick's. Stella's frantic call had brought Marissa; she hadn't expected to find him here. Remembering Paisley and Serena at the gate, a knot tightened in her chest. The playground was thankfully empty.

Dominick, usually detached from school affairs, felt a compelling need to be here. News of Grayson's injury had shaken him. As a father, he had to be present.

They walked toward the school. "The principal said this new girl from Brightmoor has a terrible temper," Marissa said. "She hurt Grayson, and Stella got hurt protecting him."

Dominick slowed, matching Marissa's pace. "Sorry," he murmured, his voice low. "I didn't want Stella involved."

Marissa smiled gently, placing a hand on his arm. "Hey, it's okay. No apologies needed."

He nodded, his focus solely on Grayson's neck injury.

The office doors burst open. Michelle and several teachers rushed out, their smiles strained. "Mr. Vanderbilt, Ms. Prescott," Michelle said, her voice overly polite. The teachers echoed her, their eagerness palpable. Mr. Vanderbilt, the school's major shareholder, commanded deference. Grayson, his son, was their most important student.

Inside, Stella sat beside Grayson, her chin high. Her eyes blazed at Serena, cowering near a plant. "You big dummy! Apologize to Sonny!" she demanded.

Grayson, touching his neck, glared at Serena. "I've never been hit! This kid's nuts!"

Serena remained silent, her eyes downcast.

Stella's patience snapped. "You're done for! Sonny's family is coming, and you're finished! Your whole family's doomed!"