Page 74 of Cold Carnage

“All right,” I said once everyone was paired up. “You all know what to do. Head out into the store and help your buddy find everything they need for school. Have fun!”

The kids cheered and tugged on their partners’ hands, eager to start their shopping adventure. The players followed suit, some giving playful nudges or words of encouragement as they set off into the aisles.

I watched them go, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over me. This was what it was all about—seeing these kids happy and excited for school.

As the groups dispersed throughout the store, I took a moment to gather my thoughts and make sure everything was running smoothly. The day had started off rocky with Ryker’s attitude and that tough press conference question, but seeing those smiles made it all worth it.

I couldn’t help but glance around for Ryker. His presence always seemed to linger in my mind like an unfinished sentence.

Ryker extended his hand, and Dylan hesitated for a moment before taking it. Together, they moved toward the aisle of backpacks. Ryker pointed out different options, engaging Dylan in conversation about his favorite colors and superheroes.

"How about this one?" Ryker asked, holding up a bright blue backpack adorned with comic book characters.

Dylan’s eyes lit up as he reached for it. "This one’s awesome!"

Ryker grinned, ruffling the boy's hair. "Good choice."

As they moved on to the school supplies section, I noticed Ryker making an effort to involve Dylan in every decision. He let the boy pick out pencils, notebooks, and even a set of colorful markers. Each time Dylan made a choice, Ryker offered encouragement and praise.

I couldn’t help but feel a warm squeeze in my chest as I watched them interact. There was something heartwarming about seeing Ryker, usually so cold and distant, connecting with this young boy. It was a side of him I hadn’t seen before—one that hinted at a depth beyond his gruff exterior.

When they reached the clothing section, Dylan hesitated again. "Do you think these will fit me?" he asked, holding up a pair of jeans.

Ryker nodded confidently. "Let's try them on and see."

He guided Dylan toward the fitting rooms, giving him space but staying close enough to offer support if needed. After a few moments, the boy emerged from the fitting room to show his mother and Ryker. Ryker clapped him on the shoulder. "Looking good, buddy."

Dylan beamed up at him, his earlier shyness replaced by newfound confidence.

Watching them made me realize that maybe—just maybe—there was more to Ryker than I’d initially thought.

Chapter 22

Ryker

Navigating the crowded aisles of the department store with Dylan felt like a trial by fire. Every step brought a new question.

"Why do I need so many notebooks?" Dylan's voice pierced through my thoughts.

I sighed, grabbing a pack of pencils. "You'll use them. Trust me."

He frowned, eyes scanning the shelves like they held the secrets of the universe. "But what if I don't?"

"You will." My tone was final, leaving no room for debate. The kid's relentless curiosity tested my patience, yet there was something endearing about his inquisitiveness.

We moved to the next aisle. Binders in various colors lined the shelves. Dylan picked up a bright red one, turning it over in his hands.

"What's your favorite color?" he asked suddenly, looking up at me.

"Never thought about it," I lied, avoiding the vulnerability that came with such simple questions.

Dylan shrugged, placing the binder into our cart. "Mine's red."

I nodded, pushing the cart forward. "Good choice."

The back-to-school sale signs dangled overhead, a constant reminder of how far removed I felt from these mundane tasks. Yet, here I was, guiding this kid through it all.

"Do you remember your first day of school?" Dylan's voice cut through my thoughts again.

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