The Truck Driver

Deserves Some Peace

Tank held Kayla close, her body trembling against his as she sobbed into his chest. He didn't say anything—just held her, kissed the top of her head, and let her cry.

His sisters rushed toward the commotion, concern etched across their faces.

"What happened?" Tanya demanded, her sharp eyes scanning the yard. "Why were the cops here?"

Tamera crossed her arms, her expression just as fierce. "Did something happen to Kayla? What's going on?"

Tank didn't respond immediately.

Neither did Terrance Sr. or Miss Sherri.

They exchanged quick glances, a silent understanding passing between them.

This wasn't their story to tell.

Kayla was visibly shaken, her face streaked with tears, her body stiff with embarrassment. The last thing she needed was for everyone to know the depths of what she had suffered.

"Her mother and stepdad harassed her," was all Tank muttered, his voice tight.

Tanya's eyes darkened. "Harassed her how?"

Tank's jaw flexed, his grip on Kayla tightening instinctively.

"They just showed up uninvited, talking reckless. But it don't matter—they gone now."

Terrance Sr. nodded firmly, backing his son. "Ain't nothing for y'all to worry about."

But that wasn't good enough for Tanya.

She knew her brother.

Knew when he was holding back.

Her gaze flickered to her mama, who looked like she was barely holding in her own anger. Then to Kayla, whose face was turned into Tank's chest, her small hands gripping his shirt like he was the only thing keeping her standing.

Tanya's stomach twisted.

Whatever had happened, it was bad.

And she was gonna find out—one way or another.

But for now, she let it drop, exchanging a look with Tamera, who was clearly thinking the same thing.

"Alright," Tanya finally said, though her tone made it clear she wasn't letting this go.

"Come on, baby," Miss Sherri finally said softly, rubbing Kayla's back. "Let's get you inside, get you some tea."

Kayla nodded weakly, still gripping onto Tank, needing his strength to guide her inside.

And Tank, he wasn't letting her go.

Not now.

Not ever.

Tank cradled Kayla's face, his thumbs gently wiping away her tears as she sniffled.

"Please, baby," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "You're breaking my heart, and you crying like this might stress the baby."

Kayla nodded weakly, her body feeling heavy with exhaustion. The fear had left her body, but now she was just sad—embarrassed.

She just needed to lay down, needed a moment to breathe, to process everything.

Tank felt her body slack against him, and he didn't hesitate—he scooped her up effortlessly, holding her close as he carried her inside the house.

Miss Sherri followed close behind, her worried eyes never leaving Kayla.

"I'mma fix you a cup of tea, baby," Miss Sherri murmured as Tank carried Kayla to their room. "Something to calm you down."

Kayla didn't even have the energy to respond.