VALERIE'S POV★Silence stretched, thick and awkward, between us. Kaden, usually so quick with a quip, seemed lost for words. Finally, Kaden finally broke it, his voice quiet, almost hesitant, he blurted out, "Why do you hate me so much, Val?" His voice was rough with something I couldn't quite place.His question hung in the air, heavy and unexpected. I laughed, a harsh, brittle sound, expecting it to sting like salt in a fresh wound, that surprised even me. But as I looked at Kaden, his face earnest, his eyes searching, the laughter died. It wasn't a game anymore.He was wearing his usual playful smirk this time, but something genuine, something vulnerable. He wasn't joking. He really wanted to know. The laugh died in my throat."Hate's a strong word, Kaden, that's just... easy. It's easier than the truth." I said, my voice husky.I continued, "But yeah, maybe a little. Why wouldn't I? You made my life hell in school, remember? Treat me like dirt under your paws." I took a shaky bre
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