A Promise Kept

Chapter 12: A Promise Kept

The engine of Michael's exotic black car purred as it slowed to a stop in front of Jane's school. The sleek, polished exterior glistened in the midday sun, drawing the attention of anyone nearby. As he stepped out of the car, the noise around him seemed to fade, replaced by the envious whispers of girls who couldn't help but stare. His tall, chiseled frame, dark hair, and piercing eyes caught their attention immediately. The whispers escalated, but Michael didn't even spare them a glance. His focus was elsewhere, and his presence commanded respect without the need for acknowledgment.

He adjusted his jacket, straightened up, and walked with purpose towards the entrance of the school. Inside, the hallways were buzzing with students, but Michael moved confidently, unaffected by the looks and murmurs around him. He asked a few students for directions, and a friendly young girl pointed him in the right direction.

"Jane? You should check the principal's office. She's probably there," she suggested with a smile.

"Thank you," Michael said, his voice calm but with an undeniable authority to it.

Following her directions, he made his way to the principal's office. He didn't hesitate as he walked in, his polished shoes clicking on the floor with each step. At the front desk, he asked to see Jane.

Minutes later, Jane appeared in the doorway, her eyes wide with surprise. She hadn't expected to see him here. The sight of Michael, standing tall and confident in front of her school, took her breath away for a moment. Before she could say anything, he smiled, and she rushed toward him, wrapping her arms around him in a warm hug.

"Michael! You came…!" Her voice was full of disbelief and happiness.

He chuckled, a smile playing on his lips. "Of course I did. I kept my word."

She pulled back slightly, still holding onto him. Their eyes met, both of them smiling as if everything else in the world had paused in that moment. Michael reached out and gently took her hand in his, leading her towards the principal's office, where the fees were to be paid.

Jane led him inside, and the principal, a middle-aged woman with kind eyes, greeted them both. Michael didn't waste time. Without any fanfare, he handed over the money to cover all of Jane's school fees—throughout the entire span of high school. The principal was stunned, but she nodded with a respectful smile, clearly understanding the gesture.

"Thank you, Michael. You're making a huge difference in Jane's life," the principal said, her voice warm with gratitude.

Jane stood there, almost speechless, a mixture of disbelief and pure joy radiating from her. She turned to Michael, eyes wide.

"You really... you really did it," she whispered.

Michael nodded, his gaze softening. "You deserve this, Jane. No one should have to worry about their future when they're as talented as you."

Jane hugged him again, this time, a little tighter, as if to hold onto the moment forever. "Thank you! Thank you so much, Michael. I can't even… I don't know how to thank you enough."

"It's nothing," he said, giving her a small, knowing smile. "But, if you're done for the day, I think it's time I take you home."

Jane's heart skipped a beat. "I'm done for the day. Let's go!"

With that, they walked out of the office together. As they stepped into the hall, the whispers from the girls grew louder. Their jealous stares followed Jane and Michael as they walked side by side, holding hands. Every glance seemed to seethe with envy. Some girls couldn't help but glare at Jane, as if wondering how on earth someone like her had managed to get the attention of someone like Michael.

But Jane didn't care. She felt like she was walking on air, her heart light and full of gratitude. As they reached the car, she glanced at Michael, a soft smile on her lips.

"Can we just… stay like this forever?" she asked, her voice low, almost wistful.

Michael's eyes softened as he opened the car door for her. "We will, Jane. We'll make sure of it."

And with that, they both slipped into the car, leaving behind the stares and whispers, their bond stronger than ever.