Page 44 of Rules

“Hmm…” She tilts her head to the side, letting me know she’s listening without turning around.

“Want to watchTeen Wolf?”

We watched it the last time we gathered at Lia’s, and it seemed like she was enjoying the show almost as much as I was.

“Sure.” Jeanette shrugs nonchalantly. “Come down when you’re done.”

Chapter Fifteen

BROOK

I turn around to lie on my back, restless.

I feel restless.

The darkness surrounds me, mixed with the musky scent of his cologne. Not overwhelming, but enough for me to know that I’m in his room, surrounded by his stuff, lying inhisbed.

How did I end up like this?

I should have gone back home. Or to Lia’s house. Anything would have been better and less awkward than this.

Sighing loudly, I squeeze my eyes shut and the throbbing pain in my cheekbone reminds me why I’m here and not in my own bed.

With the tips of my fingers, I trace the sensitive skin, hissing softly.

Once I was done with the shower and changed into a clean set of clothes, I went back downstairs in search of Jeanette. I found her in the kitchen making tea. Without a word, she went to the freezer and grabbed a bag of frozen peas to put on my face. I accepted it, thankful to relieve the pain I had completely tuned out until that moment. We spent the evening binging onTeen Wolfand eating Chinese food.

The soft pattering of rain on the window brings me back to here and now. I turn to my side, snuggling more into the comforter as I fluff the pillow. I try to concentrate on that monotone, soothing sound in the hope I’ll finally fall asleep, but my thoughts keep wondering.

I’m not sure how much time has passed—I guess I fell asleep—before the sound of soft footsteps nearing jolts me awake.

My whole body stiffens as my heart starts galloping in my chest.

Did somebody come home? Or is it Jeanette going to the bathroom?

My fingers grip the blanket while I listen to whoever’s out there in the hallway. Or at least try to, since I’m not sure I can hear anything above the frantic thumping in my ears.

The floorboards creak.

I inhale sharply, my eyes glued to the door. Even in the darkness of the room, I can see the handle turn.

Flashes from the past return in full force, paralyzing me.

The creaking of the floorboards as the footsteps near.

The door slowly squeaks open.

A big shadow standing in the doorway.

Nearing the bed.

The bed dipping down from the weight as the person sat down.

No, not now. Not again.

Cold sweat washes over me as I shut my eyes. My fingers grasp the blanket tighter, but even the death grip can’t prevent them from trembling.

It’s been so long. I’m better. I’mstronger.I won’t go down that road. Not again.

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