Page 184 of Dare To Break

My mother’s eyes widen, and she pales. “I’m sure it will be just as impressive as Eli’s statue.”

Out of the corner of my eye, I can see Eli and Kellan watching us intently. I’d be happier without them around. With the changes Elena has been making to the house, I’m sure Eli despises her even more than ever. It’s just another reason for him to loathe me.

“Are you enjoying being on the cheer squad?” She changes the subject.

I shrug. “It’s okay.”

“She’s dating the captain of the swim team,” Kellan tells her.

Curling my fingers into fists on my lap, the nails bite into my palms. “His name is Miles.”

“Is he good looking?” That piques my mother’s interest.

Kellan nods, grinning. “He’s got a pretty face.”

“I hope you’re being careful, Bella. Using protect—”

Heat scalds my cheeks, and I roll my eyes. “Thanks, but I don’t need your advice.”

Eli must be getting a kick out of this. Please don’t let Jace send him the photo he took in the car.

The thought of him seeing what I had to do makes everything inside me cringe. I’m already humiliated enough over it.

The maids enter, carrying silver trays. They place china bowls in front of us. Staring down at the green soup, my stomach revolts at the sight of it. Elena continues to chatter, but my thoughts turn inward, shunning any more conversation.

All I want to do is go back to my room and search for my old diary. There was no sign of it under the bed, and I’m anxious to search the rest of my room and hide it with my new one. If Eli gets his hands on it, I will never be able to live it down. I don’t want him to read about the secrets and fantasies that have been building in my head.

Fantasies that started to come to life with Sin.

My fingers itch for the phone I’ve lost, and I can’t stop worrying about it.

If he finds it in the tomb, will he send it back to me?

God, I’m pathetic for wanting him to.

He’s rejected me twice, but I know I’ll still go crawling back if he contacts me. I need his attention like I need air to breathe.

“Where’s that tacky colorful bracelet you always wear?” Elena’s voice drags me back to the present.

I swirl the soup around with my spoon. “I lost it.”

“Would you like a new one for Christmas?”

“No thanks.”

“Something in silver with expensive charms,” she continues. “Every woman loves diamonds. And it would be more elegant than the cheap ones she had.”

“They weren’t just charms.” My voice grows thick with the mixed-up emotions that have been threatening to escape. “They were memories and promises. Dreams of all the places I planned to go. Reminders of my best friend, our laughter, and that one day, this shitty life I live will get better. So, yes, that tacky bracelet mattered to me.” I’m shouting by the last word.

The entire room goes still as I rise from my seat.

Shock ripples over my mother’s face. “Arabella Travers, sit down immediately.”

Her sharp words catch me on a raw nerve. “Gray! My surname is Gray. It will never be Travers.”

She gasps. “What’s gotten into you?”

“I’m sure Arabella is just feeling tired, that’s all. The last few months have probably been overwhelming and stressful.” Elliot’s smile is kind. “A new family. New School. New friends—”

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