Ellie stared at him, her thoughts swirling. Why does he want to help me? We barely know each other. Why is he so kind to me? The questions raced in her mind, and with each one, her suspicion grew. Is he trying to use me for my money? No, that can't be it-he doesn't look like someone who needs anything. His family is rich... right? What's their name again? Damien Eryx?
Her memory stirred, and she recalled faint whispers about the Eryx family, practically royalty in the diamond trade. They weren't just wealthy; they were filthy rich, crafting some of the most luxurious jewelry in the country. If anything, they probably had more wealth than her own parents. But still, why is he helping me?
"Ellie?" Damien's voice cut through her thoughts. He tilted his head, giving her a slightly amused look. "You with me? Or did you zone out completely?"
Ellie blinked and quickly replied, "Of course, I'm listening!"
He raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced, but didn't push it. "So? What do you say? Want me to take you home?"
Ellie hesitated for a moment but finally nodded. "Alright, I'll be happy if you take me home."
Damien's lips curved into a satisfied smile. "Good choice. It's late, and you shouldn't be out here alone." With that, he extended his hand toward her.
She hesitated briefly but let him take her hand. His grip was warm and steady, and as they walked toward his car, she felt a strange mix of nerves and curiosity. They stopped in front of a sleek, jet-black sports car that practically screamed opulence. Ellie glanced around, expecting a driver, but the seat was empty.
"Where's your driver?" she asked, puzzled.
Damien laughed softly, pulling a key fob from his pocket. "Driver? What do you take me for, a child? I'll be driving."
Ellie squinted at him, convinced he was joking. "Funny. Now go ahead and call your driver."
He met her gaze, his smile widening into a playful smirk. "Ellie, I am the driver."
Her expression faltered for a second before she forced a polite smile. "No, seriously. Call your driver."
Damien crossed his arms, leaning casually against the car door. "I am serious. I'm driving. Why are you making such a big deal about it?"
YOU ARE READING
The Accepted Outcast
Teen FictionEllie Malcolm was born with unusual features: she had no body hair, pale skin, and wide blue eyes, which made her seem unattractive to others. As a result, her classmates bullied her, and she felt unloved by her parents. However, everything changes...
