CHAPTER 8

As Caleb had suggested, Patricia attended Jane's birthday party. True to his promise, he arrived to pick her up in his car, the engine purring softly as they drove through the evening streets lit by flickering streetlights. Patricia fidgeted nervously in her seat, her thoughts consumed by the worry of arriving empty-handed to Jane's celebration.

"I'm really worried I didn't bring a gift. What if she gets mad at me?" she fretted, stealing glances at Caleb who was steadfastly focused on the road ahead.

"Don't worry about that. Jane won't even notice. She's busy with her friends anyway. And besides, didn't we already talk about this? Why are you stressing over it again?" Caleb reassured, sparing a quick glance in her direction.

Patricia let out a resigned sigh, feeling conflicted but ultimately deciding to remain silent. She knew from experience that debating further with Caleb would only lead to a gentle but firm lecture. As they continued their journey, the warmth of the car's interior