Page 66 of Dare To Take

Miles rakes a hand through his hair and looks away from me. “I don’t believe you’re a whore.”

Doesn’t he?

“I don’t know why you’re talking to me at all. Won’t it tarnish your reputation?”

“I’m worried about you.”

I snort. “Really? You came with an audience?”

Miles keeps his attention on my face. “They won’t leave me alone.”

“Uh huh.”

“No, seriously. I’ve become a sun they gravitate around since they all got back from Christmas break.”

“They just want drama.”

He nods. “And gossip.”

“I don’t want to be the center of attention.”

“I know.”

My brows knit together at the softness of his voice. “Why can’t they just leave me alone?”

“You still have me.”

“No, I don’t.”

He starts to reach for me but stops himself. “I meant what I said, Bella. I’m still your friend. I swear I am.”

“I’m not sure what to believe anymore.”

“Trust me, please.”

“You’re so annoying,” I mutter.

The corners of his mouth curve faintly up. “Endearingly annoying.”

My attention shifts to the others, who are avidly watching us. “Your friends are waiting for you.”

Miles takes a step closer to me. “Slap me.”

“Seriously?”

“Please.”

I don’t even have to pretend to be angry. My hand lifts, and I swing it hard. The blow to his cheek leaves my palm aching. He staggers sideways. While the jocks jeer and laugh, Lacy, Tina, Maggie, and Linda are wearing matching expressions of disgust. I ignore them all and stalk off toward the cafeteria.

Students glance my way, a surge of whispers flowing through the room, when I step inside. Ominous thoughts form in my head, and my steps falter.

I am brave.

I am fearless.

There’s nowhere to run from this. I keep up the litany of words, bolstering my courage, and cross to the line for the serving counter. The two girls in front of me stop talking when I step behind them.

A quick scan of the tables around me and I see Kellan sitting in his usual place. He’s playing with his phone, seemingly oblivious to everything around him. Miles enters the cafeteria with the others, and they head to the same tables they always use.

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