Second Chance Rival

Mr. Montgomery informed, “They’ll send her away, Tristian. It’s either you or her.”

I couldn’t hold back, needing to know. “Why can’t we just be together?”

“You’re young,” Grandfather remarked. “You don’t fully understand the consequences of your rash decisions.”

“What consequences?”

“You’re lucky you’re a Hawkins. It’s the only reason the sheriff isn’t pressing charges for all the street races you’ve organized and been a part of. I can’t tell you how disappointed I am in your careless decisions. Your parents would be too.”

I bowed my head, I had to. “My father loved his street bikes.”

“He wouldn’t love you riding them, Tristian. Do I need to remind you that they died on one?”

I shook my head, still gazing at the ground. “No, sir.”

“Do you have any idea how many colleges would refuse you if you had an arrest record? You need to appreciate the fact that I was able to make this go away for you, but don’t think for one second I won’t use it as ammunition if you don’t willingly leave tonight.”

“You didn’t answer my question. Why can’t Belle and I be together? Your rivalry has nothing to do with us.”

“You’re young. You both have your whole lives ahead of you. You’re not meant to be together, Tristian. You never were.”

Feeling defeated, I asked, “Where am I going?”

“Switzerland. To an elite, all-male boarding school.”

“For fuck’s sake,” I muttered, low enough to where they couldn’t hear me. “Couldn’t ship me off any further, Grandfather?”

“You’ll have the best schooling money can buy.”

“That’s what your good at. Throwing money at the problem.”

“I’m not going to apologize for keeping the best interest for you and our family in mind, Tristian. The blatant disrespect you’ve shown to your family name speaks volumes.”

“I’m more than just a last name.”

“Your last name is everything, and don’t you ever forget that. This is the first and last time I will save your ass. Do you understand me?”

I met his eyes. “And what about Belle?”

“What about her?”

“What happens to her if I go?”

“Nothing,” Mr. Montgomery replied, bringing my attention to him. “She will continue with her normal life.”

“Can I—”

“Absolutely not. You will never see my granddaughter again.”

“So just like that? I can’t even say goodbye to her?”

“You don’t need to make things harder than they already are.”

“Oh, this is hard for you, Grandfather?”

“Of course. Do you think I find satisfaction in what I’ve learned about your life?”

“How long have you known?”