Kiss

Derek's point of view:

I trudged back home, my steps heavy with disappointment.

Another day had gone by, and nothing seemed to be going my way.

As I walked into the living room, I found Ronnie engrossed in a TV show. "I'm home," I said in a dull tone, not expecting any response.

But Ronnie looked up and greeted me with a warm smile. "Hey, Derek. How are you? I made dinner. Would you be interested?" she asked.

I didn't answer her right away. I just walked over to one of the seats and flopped down on it.

Ronnie sat down next to me and placed a hand on my shoulder. "Is everything okay?" she asked, sensing my mood.

I shook my head. "Not really. Laura told me everything."

Ronnie's expression turned serious. "What did she say?" she asked.

"She said that dad took care of her tuition fees and expenses. You set that up, didn't you?" I asked.

Ronnie nodded. "Yes, I did. I thought it would help her focus more on her studies."

I looked at her in silence for a moment. "You did good. But tell me