SIXTY-THREE

I crawled into bed without saying a word to Slade. I was angry, but most importantly, I was angry that I’d allowed myself get insulted by his father. I was angry that I’d thought for a brief second that I stood a chance with him.

He didn’t see the need to tell me a thing about Sapphire, including the fact that she was rumored to be carrying his child. I know they’d been intimate at some point, but hearing this as a confirmation set me off. Knowing he’d touched her in that way at all had me all riled up.

When he climbed into bed, I forced my eyes close and pretended to be asleep.

“I know you are not asleep. Tell me what’s on your mind,” he says softly. I didn’t respond.

“Ari, you have to tell me what is bothering you. Whatever it is, I need you to communicate with me. Is it something my dad said?” He asked again when I didn’t respond. I know better than to fall for that.

I stiffened when his hands rested on my arms “I’m fine Slade,” I say carefully, keeping the hurt out of my voic