CHAPTER 8

CARMEN

“I’m getting married to Jasper right after I graduate high school.”

Dave looked up from the book he had been pretending to read ever since I walked into the dining room and found him sitting there on his own.

“I don’t understand.” He shook his head, a frown of genuine confusion stuck on his face.

“It’s been settled between me and my mother.” I sat beside him so that I could lower my voice and the staff walking around would not have to hear the conversation.

“You told me you were going to convince her. You said you wouldn’t marry him,” he said, staring at me as though I had committed the ultimate act of betrayal.

“I know what I said, Dave, but I also know that I have certain responsibilities. There are things I’m supposed to do for my sake as well as that of my mom,” I spat out, just as I had rehearsed for a better part of the morning.

“And getting married to Jasper is one of them?” He raised his brows.

“I believe so, yes.” I nodded, looking down as I served myself food and did