20. Strange Isn't It (Lexi POV)

The following day was a whirlwind of excitement and chaos. I hopped into my new SUV, still amazed that Clay had gifted it to me. I felt the keys in my hand like they were a talisman of something larger, something that was still hazy around the edges of my understanding.

Just as I was about to pull away from the dorms, Moro burst out the front door, her eyes locking onto mine. "I'm coming too!" she announced, before vaulting herself into the passenger seat.

"Whoa, girl, make yourself at home," I laughed, her enthusiasm a live wire in the otherwise sleepy morning.

"This is way nicer than my car," she said, stroking the leather dashboard with awe in her eyes. "I can't believe he gifted you a car. A huge car!"

I grinned, remembering the somewhat comedic moment Clay tried to drive my old car. "It's because he felt so awkward driving my compact the other night. He was practically a contortionist trying to fit himself in. I told him no, but he laughed and said money was not an issue. I m