Chapter 21

I knew this storm was just beginning. The entire morning was spent dealing with various urgent matters. At lunchtime, as I was getting ready to step out, my phone suddenly rang. It was my older brother, Hayden. His voice sounded a bit anxious as he said, "Cole, have you seen the news? Mom and Dad are furious." I sighed. "I understand. Please help calm them down. I'll find time to visit in the next few days." After hanging up, I suddenly lost my appetite. I knew the coming days would only get tougher. That afternoon, I went to the school to pick up Jonas. At the school gate, I saw a group of excited parents and students gathered around a luxury car. Jared stepped out of the car, causing a commotion. Meanwhile, Jonas spotted me and quickly ran over. I crouched down and asked softly, "How was school today?" He lowered his head and said quietly, "It was okay, but a lot of classmates kept asking Xavier about Jared." I nodded. "That's alright. They're just curious. You don't need to