More Than What They See

CHAPTER 21: The Unexpected Meeting

Rhian’s POV

It was a Saturday, and after finishing my shift at the eatery, I still had to deliver orders to houses far from the shop. Night had already fallen, the streets were dim, and only a few people were still walking around. My back ached and my arms felt heavy from carrying all the bags, but I could not complain. I needed every peso I earned to help my mother.

As I walked slowly along the road, I heard a familiar car approaching. When I turned to look, I saw it was Gio’s car. It slowed down and stopped right beside me, and Jace stepped out.

“Why are you still out here all alone this late?” he asked. There was no teasing or laughter in his voice, only surprise and something that sounded like concern. “It is not safe anymore.”

“I just have some deliveries to drop off,” I answered quietly, trying to hide how tired I was and how my hands were shaking a little. “I am almost there.”

Gio stepped out next. He looked at the heavy bags I was holding. “These are so heavy. Why do they make you carry all of this by yourself?”

I thought he would snatch them away to throw them or mess with me like he always did before. But instead, he gently took the heaviest bag from my hands.

“Get in. We will take you home,” he said firmly.

“No, it is okay, I can manage,” I said softly.

“Just get in,” he said again. He was not harsh, but he would not let me refuse either. “We do not want anything bad to happen to you.”

I had no choice but to get in. When I sat down at the back, Francis was already there. He was leaning against the window looking outside, but I knew he was aware I had gotten in. No one spoke the whole ride. Jace drove, Gio sat beside me still holding my bag, and Francis never turned to look our way.

When we were almost at my house, Gio spoke softly like he did not want anyone else to hear. “Why do you never tell us when you are struggling? You do not have to carry everything all by yourself.”

Before I could answer, Francis spoke up suddenly. “Stop the car. She is already here.”

His voice was sharp and quick like he was rushing to end the conversation. When I stepped out, Gio handed me my things carefully.

“Go inside and rest right away,” he said. “Do not go out again. And next time, if it is already this late, do not walk alone.”

I thanked them quietly and was about to walk to my door when I heard them speak just before they drove away.

Jace said, “Did you notice too? We were wrong about her all along. She is kind, and stronger than any of us.”

Gio answered, “I know. And I do not know how to undo all the bad things we have done to her. I really regret it.”

Francis said, “You do not know the whole story. Just please do not ever hurt her again.”

I stood still at my gate as their car drove off. I felt more confused than ever. Why were they acting so different all of a sudden? Why did every word and action feel like there was something hidden behind it? And most of all, why did Francis always seem the most confused like he was carrying the heaviest secret of all?