Chapter 66 Problems

Chapter 66 Problems
Rachel Jennings

I widened my eyes and sighed, knowing it couldn't be a good thing. My immediate reflex is to answer, but when I notice Jayden's curious look at me, I shrink and leave the room, signaling to him with my fingers that I would be back soon.

I walked to the end of the hallway facing a window where I could see part of the campus and answered. My suspicions are confirmed, and with every word spoken, my chest grows heavier. They never bring solutions or good news, yet I still feel grateful that they still call me. It means I still have someone to care for. My hands were sweaty and my throat almost closing up, anxiety was consuming me as I felt my hands tied. When I heard the sorrowful voice on the other end explaining that they were reaching the limits of the resources they had, I shuddered.

"I know, and I appreciate everything you do for her. I'll send the money by the end of the week; I just need a little more time. I was fired, and I'm looking for a new job. I applied for several jobs yesterday, and I'm going to check the stores around the university today to see what I can find. Please, just give me more time!" I whimpered, and I heard the woman's sigh on the other end, making the call crackle.

I knew how exhausting this must be for her, and it was for me too. I juggled between multiple shifts in different jobs to give the best to someone who never cared about me. It was ironic how far I went to protect someone who didn't protect me.

"You have until the weekend, or you'll have to find another place. We've been very patient, Rachel," the voice on the other end demanded, with a tired voice, and that was enough for a tear to roll down my face.

I was facing the window, yet when some students passed by, I shrunk. I didn't want anyone else to see me crying. When the call ended, I felt my knees weaken, but before I could fall, I felt strong arms wrap around me, and I was startled. Through the window's reflection, I could see Jayden hugging me, his expression worried as he rested his chin on my shoulder.

"Why didn't you tell me you needed more money?" He asked, concerned, and I was speechless.

"You've already spent more on me than we agreed," I explained, sighing, and I huddled into his soft and comforting embrace.

"It doesn't matter what we agreed, Rach. Whenever you need something, I want you to come to me. You don't need to look for another job or strain yourself, just tell me what you need, and I'll give it to you. Anything!" He affirmed, and I knew I shouldn't, but I melted.

I didn't turn around, it was comfortable to see his face only through the reflection. That way, I had a version of him that I wasn't angry with. The Jayden in the window's reflection who offered me help and said he would give me anything I needed wasn't the same one who kissed another in a filthy room. The Jayden who risked himself in a snowstorm for me wasn't the same one who mocked me. By only separating the two, I could take refuge in the shelter he offered me without letting hatred come between us.

"I want to be your safe haven, Rach! I want you to tell me any problem, bring all your troubles, and let me help you carry your burdens," He sighed, and I closed my eyes.

His words were like a balm, and even though when I turned, the anger I felt towards him returned, I wanted to cherish this moment.

"How much do you need? What's going on? Talk to me, and whatever the problem is, I'll help you solve it just like you've helped me solve mine," He explained, and his words warmed my heart, easing all the fear and anxiety I had felt before.

"I don't want to talk about what's happening. I'm not ready for that. It's too painful," I cried, and he shook his head.

"You don't have to tell me if you don't want to, but know that, regardless of what it is, I'm here for you, and I'll always be," he affirmed, and I nodded.

"Hey lovebirds! Are we having this meeting or not?" Finn asked from the door of the room, and when I turned, I saw several people with him to help with the meeting.

I wiped my face and smiled, but when I saw Jasper staring at me with a confused look, I completely froze. I was hugging Jayden even after he supposedly cheated on me. What does he think of me? Was he also there to help with the committee? Jayden, Jasper, and I, working together? What else could happen?