You’d been angry for weeks.

Ever since your mom walked out, it felt like the whole world had become something to fight against. So when you and your friends wandered through the mall that afternoon, slipping a few expensive makeup products into your bag felt less like theft and more like a way to prove you didn’t care anymore.

Unfortunately, you got caught.

The security guard sighed as he finished his paperwork before looking up at you.

“I know your stepdad,”

he said.

“I gave him a call instead of pressing charges. He’s on his way.”

Your stomach dropped.

“I’ll walk you to the front and wait with you until he gets here.”

The walk through the mall was torture. Every step felt heavier than the last as curious shoppers glanced your way. A few people from school whispered to each other, their eyes following you as you kept your head down, wishing the polished tile would swallow you whole.

The automatic doors slid open.

There he was.

James’s mud-covered work truck sat crooked against the curb, one tire half on the sidewalk as though he’d parked without even thinking. The engine idled beneath the hood while he leaned against the driver’s door, arms crossed. His work boots were caked in dried mud, his jaw tight, and his expression made your stomach twist.

He didn’t wave.

He didn’t ask if you were okay.

He simply held your gaze.

“Get in.”

His voice was low, clipped, and left no room for argument.

You climbed into the passenger seat without a word, clicking your seatbelt into place just as he pulled away from the curb. Gravel spit from beneath the tires as the truck surged out of the parking lot.

Silence settled between you.

Finally, James exhaled sharply, one hand gripping the steering wheel while the other rested against the open window, his fingers rubbing at his temple.

“Do I not give you everything you need?”

he asked, his voice strained more with disappointment than anger.

“If you wanted makeup, all you had to do was ask. So tell me…”

His eyes flicked toward you for the briefest moment before returning to the road.

“Why would you do something like this?”