Page 161 of Seeds of Malice

She studies me, making me more nervous, then confesses, "Crap. Ivy, when they pulled the card, I knew you wouldn't like it."

My insides quiver. I repeat, "Avery, what's the scene?"

"Just remember that you only have to do this once and then you'll be a sister for life. Dax is right. It's worth doing anything you have to do because we'll always have your back. You'll get places in life you would never be without the connections here. Plus…"

My heart races faster. "Plus what?"

Her eyes light up. "My father will be able to give Dax his blessing to marry you even though you don't come from a prominent family."

My insides quiver. I gape at her.

She sighs. "It's not fair, Ivy. I know it's not, but this is how my family works. Even with our wealth, we still need these connections. It's why Dax is in the frat and I'm in this sorority."

I stand speechless.

"Ivy, I'm telling you, I just need you to play this scene, okay?" She puts her hand on my arm. "I promise you everything will be fine. You'll have the entire world at your fingertips."

"Avery, what's the scene?" I ask again, my voice shaking.

She releases a heavy breath. "You're surprised and unsure, but then realize it's what you actually want."

"What do I want?" I question, my gut spinning faster.

"You want Lilly."

25

Ivy

Avery's floral scent swirls around me, making me slightly dizzy. She steps closer. "It's not a big deal. Just go do it."

I open my mouth, but nothing comes out.

Avery adds, "You're not fucking her. Just so you know, it won't go that far."

"How far is it going to go?" I ask.

Am I contemplating doing this?

No. I'm not doing it.

"Just a little bit of petting. It's just acting," Avery insists.

"Why do I have to act? I'm not an actress."

Sympathy fills her expression. "Ivy, everyone has to do this. We all get scenes. My scene was..." She shakes her head.

"Your scene was what?"

"Nothing. I'll tell you about it once tonight's over, but I can't tell you before. I would break my oath to the Gammas if I told you before you were sworn in."

My chest tightens further.

"I've already disclosed too much, but I've done it because..."

I stay quiet.

She puts her hand on my heart. The bottom of her palm touches my tit.

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