My first crush (COMPLETED)√

Chapter 18

Carly's POV

Kyle's eyes scanned the menu on the table, as if he couldn't decide what else to order.

"Babe, what would you like to eat? Want to order something else?" he asked, looking at me expectantly.

I shook my head, pushing my plate slightly away. "I'm okay with the French fries. I don't want to eat much."

He didn't move, just watched me as I ate, and I felt a strange heat rise to my cheeks. The way he stared made me uncomfortable.

"Babe... are you going to watch me all day long?" I finally asked, trying to sound casual, but my voice had a bite of irritation.

"If I can," he said with a smirk. "But let's go have some fun. I know you don't really want this... but before that, I have something I want you to have."

My heart skipped. Please don't let it be a ring! I thought, panicking internally.

He handed me a small box. I opened it carefully and let out a sigh of relief — it was a necklace. Phew!

"It's beautiful," I said softly, running my fingers over the delicate chain.

"I'm not sure about that, lady," a firm voice cut through. I turned sharply to see an unknown woman standing in front of us.

"Jesse... what are you doing here?" Kyle asked, clearly caught off guard.

"You know her?" I asked, narrowing my eyes at Kyle.

"You know why I'm here," Jesse said, her voice sharp. "I've been watching you, Kyle. I know exactly what you're trying to do — fool her like you fooled us."

"Us?" I asked, confused. "Kyle... what is she talking about?"

"Nothing relevant," he muttered, avoiding my gaze. "Jesse, not here, please."

"Lady, listen to me!" Jesse's tone hardened. "He is going to fool you, take everything you have. Believe me — I've been down this road before. He's a fraud!"

"Kyle... is she right? Is that why you've been asking me for money?" I asked, my voice trembling.

"Babe, it's not true. I swear!" he pleaded, reaching for my hand.

I shook my head, hurt and betrayed. "I find it hard to believe, Kyle... because I checked your phone last week. I saw some crazy messages. I didn't want to believe it, but now..."

"I'm a changed person," he said desperately.

I couldn't take it anymore. "Screw you!" I yelled, pushing my chair back and storming out. Rage and disbelief coursed through me.

"Thief," Jesse muttered under her breath.

I was so lost in my thoughts that I almost ran into a car. The young man inside came out immediately, but instead of shouting, he approached me with calm concern.

"Are you alright, lady?" he asked gently, his eyes scanning me for injuries.

I looked up at him, my heart still racing. He was tall, handsome, and had an aura of quiet authority, probably in his early thirties.

"I... I'm okay," I said shakily, though my voice cracked.

"You're sure?" he asked, bending slightly to meet my gaze.

"No..." I broke down completely, tears streaming down my face.

"Don't cry. Let me give you a ride, if you don't mind," he offered kindly.

I nodded, still sniffling. My car was across the road, and I didn't feel safe walking alone.

He guided me into his car, and I let out a shaky breath as we drove off.

"Do you want to talk about it?" he asked gently, handing me a handkerchief to wipe my tears.

I shook my head. "No..."

"Okay, I understand," he said softly, giving me a reassuring smile. "But here's my card. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call."

I took it from him, feeling a strange mix of gratitude and comfort.

When we arrived at my house, he stopped the car. "Here we are. Take care of yourself."

"Thank you... for the ride," I said, my voice still a little shaky. I stepped out and closed the door behind me, feeling a strange warmth despite the whirlwind of betrayal and anger I had just endured.