NINETEEN

GRAYSON'S POV

Hearing that the kids had been bullied, especially Zendaya, broke my heart. I wished I could shield her from the cruelties of the world, to protect her from any harm. I stepped over to where Zendaya and Zenith stood and squatted down to their level.

"Hey," I began softly, "I want you both to know that you have me in your life now. I will never leave you, and I'll do everything to keep you safe. Your mom and I are going to find the best school for you, where no one will pick on you, okay?" I said, placing my hands gently on their cheeks.

Zenith stepped forward and hugged me tightly, his small arms wrapping around my neck as I kissed his head. It felt like a breakthrough, a small victory.

Zendaya, on the other hand, remained still, her big eyes studying me warily. Though she didn’t hug me, she didn’t pull away when I cupped her cheek. It was a tiny gesture, but it felt like a significant start.

I looked into her eyes and smiled. "I promise, Zendaya, I'll be here for you."