Chapter Seventeen

DAKODA

"Stella, are you home?" I call out as I arrive at the front door after a surfing session with the guys. However, there is no response, leading me to assume that she is out with either Kai or David.

As I make my way upstairs to take a shower, I suddenly hear Stella running. Concerned, I enter the bathroom to find her curled up on the floor of her shower, sobbing uncontrollably.

“What's going on, Stella? Are you alright?" I inquire, joining her in the shower and turning off the now cold water. I help her sit up against the wall, urging her to look at me.

“Listen to me, Stella," I say, gently lifting her head so that our eyes meet. "What happened? Did someone hurt you again?"

She lets out a laugh. "No, he just tried to kiss me, and I completely freaked out."

“Who is this Kai?" I inquire further.

“No, it's not Kai, it's David. Kai doesn't see me in that way," she explains.

For now, I decide to let that comment slide. "How did you react, Stella?"

"I started trembling