Past Events

"Can I ask you something? Why didn't I see Meg today? Do you know where she went?"

The next day, while Simon was having lunch, Veronica found him.

Simon was eating a sandwich when he said, "You didn't see her because she didn't come today!"

"Why?" Veronica asked, puzzled.

"Because a certain detective was a bit slow with her case, and because of rumors, Meg's father started believing what people were saying. So, Meg was really upset. I advised her to take a day off and clear her head," Simon explained calmly.

Simon's answer surprised Veronica. "What! How did it end up like that? Just because of a test, Meg's father thinks his daughter is a bad girl? Oh my god, that's so unfair to her."

"That's the power of rumors! Even though they're false, if you say them enough, people start believing them. It's like how your father used to see me," Simon said nonchalantly.

At Simon's words, Veronica fell silent.

"Listen, I'm really sorry for how my father treated you back then," Veronica said, her face full of regret.

"It's fine. It's all in the past!" Simon shook his head. "I understand your father's perspective. After all, no one wants their daughter to be involved with a street racer."

"Especially when that father happens to be a respected sheriff," Simon added.

The reason Simon broke up with Veronica in the first place was because everyone thought he was just some thug who robbed and street raced. Veronica's father, who was the sheriff at the time, directly warned Simon to stay away from his daughter, or he'd make sure Simon faced consequences.

At first, Simon didn't agree and didn't care about the threats.

But after Veronica's father found several reasons to lock Dominic and the others up for a few days, Simon had no choice but to compromise.

Originally, Simon could have told Veronica the truth. But in order to maintain the image of her great father in Veronica's mind, and because he believed Veronica would understand his actions, Simon never explained why he initiated the breakup.

He had planned to show Veronica who he truly was and then get back together with her.

But unexpectedly, after some time, Veronica already had a new boyfriend.

There's no right or wrong in this. Although Veronica later found out the truth and broke up with her boyfriend for other reasons, Simon knew that it was impossible for them to be together again.

After a long silence, Veronica lifted her head. "I'll speed up with Meg's case. After school, I'll go check on her."

"With you, a trusted friend, going to see her, I'm sure she'll feel better. Thank you," Simon said gratefully.

Veronica shook her head. "Meg is my friend. It's the least I can do."

After saying this, Veronica reminded him, "Your actions are already well known. I think even after this is over, Meg's family will stop you two from being together."

A small community isn't that big. Any rumor will quickly spread.

Once Simon's identity as a street racer becomes confirmed, considering Meg's family, they certainly won't allow them to continue their relationship.

"I know!" Simon said calmly. "I understand my actions were foolish! But it was the only way to protect Meg from being hurt at school."

"Also," Simon sighed, "it was the only way to get Meg to give up on me and pursue her dreams."

After hearing Simon's words, Veronica opened her mouth but didn't speak. She actually understood that this might be the best outcome for Meg.

"Simon, how did I never realize you're so smart and rational?" Veronica asked in confusion.

"Maybe we didn't know each other well enough," Simon replied. "Anyway, I hope today's conversation remains between the two of us. Don't tell Meg, okay?"

"Mm-hmm!"

"Good!" Simon picked up his plate and stood up. "If you need more money, just come to me! My only request is to resolve this quickly."

"I will."

Watching Simon leave, Veronica stayed still for a long time, lost in thought.

After school, Simon found Veronica, who was about to leave.

"I forgot earlier. When you visit Meg, can you give her this?" Simon handed her a box.

Veronica knew it wasn't the right time for Simon to see Meg, so she gladly accepted the box. "I'll do it!"

"Can you tell me what's inside?" Veronica asked, waving the box.

Simon didn't hide it. "Nothing much. It's my lucky bracelet. I hope it brings Meg some good luck."

"What? You're not telling me this is the same lucky bracelet that's always helped you pass exams, right? Simon, it's time for you to grow up," Veronica couldn't help but laugh.

Simon shot Veronica an annoyed glance. "It's a form of spiritual support, Veronica!"

"Okay, okay! Don't worry, I'll make sure to deliver it," Veronica said, surrendering.

"Thanks!"

"Alright, I've got to go to work now. If you ever need help, just let me know. Sometimes, a friend's help can save a lot of trouble," Simon reminded her.

This time, Veronica didn't refuse. "If I need anything, I'll find you."

"And I always have friends helping me!" Veronica added.

"Wallace? He's a trustworthy guy! But he's not a great partner," Simon said.

"What are you thinking, buddy! Me and him, we're just friends," Veronica said with a laugh, punching Simon.

"Alright! My bad!"

After saying that, Simon got into the car he borrowed from Mia. "I'll go now! Remember, call me if you need anything. Don't worry, I didn't blacklist you."

"I will, dude."