Chapter 14

  Serena's POV.

  As I approached the school gate, Richard darted in front of me, blocking my path. I sidestepped, but he quickly moved to block me again.

  "Serena, please, I need to talk to you," he begged, his eyes pleading.

  I rolled my eyes, irritation simmering just below the surface.

  "Unfortunately, I don't want to talk to you, so let me pass," I said, my voice firm.

  Richard's expression transformed into one of pity, and for a fleeting moment, I almost believed he genuinely cared for me.

  But the memory of his harsh words from the day before still stung, and I knew better.

  His concern was nothing more than a facade, a clever manipulation to get what he wanted.

  "Serena, I'm really sorry about yesterday," Richard said, his voice laced with remorse.

  I shrugged, my response curt.

  "It's fine." I tried to step around him, but he blocked my path again.