Chapter 18 Unsettled Debts
Teresa had barely stepped through her front door when Liam arrived, concern etched on his face and her forgotten backpack in his grasp. He found her in the bathroom, trying to wash away the taste of the unwanted kiss. She put her backpack down, he joined her at the sink.
Liam saw Teresa's pale reflection, her discomfort was so apparant. "What happened? You left in such a hurry," he asked.
Teresa avoided his gaze in the mirror, rinsed her mouth again. "It's my study abroad application. They need more documents," she explained, her voice barely above a whisper.
Liam's frown deepened, sensing there was more she didn’t say. "Teresa, would you stay for us?" His voice was soft, it sounded almost like a plea.
Her response was immediate, tears welling up. "I can't, Liam. I have to do this."
"But we don't have to end things because of the exchange program, do we?" Liam's voice cracked, the realization of his vulnerability dawning on him.
Teresa's silence spoke volumes. "How could you be okay with me after what happened the other night?" she finally had enough courage to ask him that.
Liam's heart constricted. "Who is he?" The question hung heavy between them.
"I think we should break up," Teresa said, her emotions were overflowing and overwhelming at that moment..
Liam's hands found her shoulders, his gripped her firmly. "Haven't you felt anything for me?" he asked.
"I don't know," that was all she could say for how guilty she was feeling.
He removed his hands from her shoulders, feeling a cold wave of defeat. "If you want to go abroad, then go." His steps were leaden as he walked away, each one heavier than the last.
Meanwhile, outside the Bennett family estate, a black Rolls-Royce sat silently. Gabriel, who had been resting, watched Liam's car speed away, a slight smile playing on his lips. He pulled out his phone, hesitated, then made a decision.
"Time for Teresa to repay her debt," he murmured.
Finley, surprised, glanced back at Gabriel. "The money for the prophylactic?" he asked, noting the unusual attention Gabriel paid to such a trivial amount.
Gabriel's voice was cool. "Make the call."
Finley didn't ask questions. He found Teresa's number and dialed.
