Chapter 206

That evening, I left home. Hayden wasn't around—his windows were completely dark.

By the time Wayne called, I was already at the train station, sitting in the waiting room.

I decided against flying. Took the high-speed rail instead. Sure, it was a couple hours longer, but I liked the idea of staying grounded. It felt safer.

"Rea, your car's fixed. Where are you? I can drop it off," Wayne's voice came through, warm as always.

I glanced around the station—people were either glued to their phones or zoned out. "Just leave it at the shop. I'll pick it up later."

There was a pause. I could feel his concern before he spoke again. "The mechanic said your car was tampered with."

My stomach dropped, even though I knew it already—it was me who arranged the whole thing.

"Seriously?" I faked surprise.

"Has anyone else driven it recently?" Wayne asked, sounding more worried now.

I bit my lip, trying to think fast, but Wayne jumped in before I could. "Whoever did it wasn't trying to hurt yo