Rebirth Into My Second Chance

I sensed something off about Claude lately, but I knew better than to let my guard down around him.

As I was about to close my door, I caught sight of Dr. Hilton across the hall, his door wide open, eyes fixed on me. It was almost certain he'd seen Claude leave my place. With his lips pursed, I couldn't help but wonder what he was thinking, especially since he'd met her

earlier

today.

He must have recognized Claude.

Feeling awkward yet compelled, I grabbed a bottle of milk my brother had dropped off earlier and walked over to him. "This is from my brother," I said, handing him the milk without waiting for a response and leaving it at his doorstep.

Then, remembering Ronald, I dashed back to fetch another bottle. "This one's for Mr. Collins," I mused, feeling a sense of warmth towards both men. Without their presence in my life, my untimely demise would've likely remained a mystery.

No sooner had I placed the second bottle down when a summer breeze slammed my door shut behind me.

And, of course, I was locked out.

Biting my lip in frustration, I turned to Max. "Could you lend me your phone? I need to call a locksmith."

"I don't have a locksmith's number. Try Ronald," he suggested, barely concealing the smirk on his face.

openness about their lives made them all the more appealing, especially

Ronald, his tone firm yet casual, "Need you to

could tell there was a different kind of affection between them,

of recognition

bottle was plain, devoid of any branding. How he

puzzled look, he chose not to elaborate, simply leading the way with the milk

Claude delivering gifts to Max? And here I was, thinking she was just being generous

Max's stash, my few bottles

placing two bottles

managed a stiff smile, not

led me down a complicated path with Claude, a mistake

Max didn't press

Ronald arrived, his annoyance palpable. "Seriously,

of dragging me

when he saw me sitting calmly on the

between Max and me, confusion written

I didn't expect

"Shut it,"

snapped, making

instantly pay attention