Page 110 of Dare To Take

“I’m not doing it for a reaction.”

“No, but if—” he shakes his head. “Doesn’t matter.”

“If you’ve got something to say, just say it.” I put down the chisel and turn to face him.

“She looks sick, Eli.”

“How could you tell underneath all the makeup?”

“What makeup? You know she wasn’t wearing any.”

“Does it fucking matter? I did what I needed to do. If she has any sense, she’ll quit now.”

“And what if she doesn’t? Are you going to carry out your threat and fuck her in front of everyone?”

My smile is forced. “Maybe.”

“No matter what twisted mess she’s got going on in her head, you can’t let her drive you to do something you won’t be able to live with later.”

I laugh, the sound hard and bitter. “She’s nothing. I’ll sleep perfectly well at night.”

“Don’t lie to me. You’re not the fucking monster you pretend to be. I know you, Eli.”

“Does it matter? I’m whatever they say I am. You know how it works, Kellan. Look at Miles. He’s so fucking terrified of being cast out of his so-called group of friends if he admits he’s gay. Everyone is molded by the beliefs of those around them.’

“I’m not.” His voice is soft.

My smile is genuine this time. “You’re the exception that proves the rule.”

“Are you coming to English?”

“No. How long did Arabella last during math?”

“Ten minutes, maybe. Garrett was groping her when I arrived.”

Tension stiffens my spine. “Groping her how?”

“Forced her to sit on his lap, had his hand on her tit. Bit her neck. Said he’d catch up with her later.”

Fury heats my blood.

“It’s your fault. You sent the message that she’s available.” There’s no accusation in his voice, just fact. “You should be pleased. It means she’ll be too distracted by them to annoy you.”

He’s not wrong. So why the fuck am I working out where Garrett might be tonight?

“Do they have practice tonight?”

“Miles does, so maybe?”

I nod.

“What are you thinking?”

“You’re right. I did say she’s available … but not until I’m finished with her.”

“You are finished with her.”

I pick up the chisel and walk over to the marble. “Am I?”

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