Chapter 17 - DEREK RETURNSMonths later, Derek Voss returned.
No cameras this time.
No production crew.
He stood outside the academy holding a small envelope.
Mia opened the door.
“What do you want?”
Derek looked uncomfortable.
“I owe you an apology.”
Mia said nothing.
He handed her the envelope.
Inside was a check.
“For the youth program.”
Mia looked at the amount.
It was substantial.
“You don't have to do this.”
“I know.”
He looked through the doorway at the students training inside.
“I've spent my whole life believing people watched because I was strong.”
He paused.
“They watched because I was loud.”
Mia studied him.
“Maybe you're finally learning the difference.”
Derek smiled faintly.
“Maybe.”
He turned away.
Mia watched him disappear down the sidewalk.
May you like
Some battles ended with victory.
Others ended with someone finally understanding why they had lost.
