Page 107 of Breaking the Rules

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"Yeah." My fingers glide over my cell. I bite back the defensive responses that will get him to back off. I've done enough to this poor guy. "But I don't really want to talk about it."

"Sure."

"Where is the address? Hunter wants it."

Despite the mention of Hunter, Collin's expression stays soft. "On my cell." He motions to his phone, currently plugged into the speaker.

I pick it up. Find the address in the maps app, send it to Hunter.

Emma: Don't wait up.

Hunter: That isn't funny.

Emma: You should enjoy your date. Find out what cliché Alice has tattooed on her ribs.

Hunter: Now, I know you're jealous.

Emma: In your dreams.

Hunter: Rib tattoos hurt like a bitch.

Emma: I'm aware.

Hunter: You're too scared for the needle.

Emma: Or maybe I have no desire to mark my skin forever.

Hunter: One day, you're going to care enough about something to need it on your skin.

Emma: And your Latin quote?

Hunter: What about it?

Emma: What nourishes me also destroys me? Really?

I set my cell in my lap to fiddle with Collin's. It's really trusting of him, keeping his attention on the road while I have every opportunity to check for nudes or texts with other girls.

I don't.

I do care about respecting people's privacy.

I go straight to the streaming app. Switch the music from a hip-hop playlist to The Smiths.

Collin makes thatreally, thisface, but he keeps his lips zipped.

This is what always happens when I tell people about my parents.

They get all quiet and awkward and apologetic.

Hunter: It does.

Emma: What specifically?

Hunter: Aren't you at a party?

Emma: Aren't you getting a drink?

Hunter: Staying sober in case you need a ride.

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