He explained that Brad and Chase had later told the gas-station story on a podcast. They still considered it hilarious.
The episode went viral, but viewers reacted with outrage. People called the prank abuse and began investigating my disappearance. Kyle lost his job, his brothers lost sponsors, and several relatives cut contact with them.
“So that’s why you came?” I asked. “You want me to protect your reputation?”
“No. I came because I finally understand what I did.”
He admitted he had expected me to call for help and return to him. My disappearance forced him to recognize that I was safer without him.
“I’m sorry,” he said. “I know I don’t deserve forgiveness.”
“You drove away laughing.”
“I know.”
Grant came to stand beside me and took my hand.
Kyle looked at us.
“You seem happy.”
“I am.”
He nodded.
“There is something else. Brad and Chase are facing charges. They trapped another woman inside an office building overnight and filmed her panic. The prosecutor wants to prove a pattern. They may ask you to testify.”
He handed me a business card.
“If you tell your story, it could stop them from hurting anyone else.”
I accepted the card.
Before leaving, Kyle paused at the gate.
“For what it’s worth, I’m glad you escaped me. You deserved better.”
Then he walked away without looking back.
