“Let me go,” I tell Aiden in a calm tone that wraps all the rage inside.
“You won’t stir trouble?” he asks with a suspicious voice.
“No. I’ll do this the calm way.” I breathe in and out to wean down the raging storm brewing inside me.
By the end of the night, everyone at school will know their fucking places.
Astrid included.
34
Astrid
Your time is over. I’m not your subject anymore.
* * *
One would think that changing into a pretty dress and heels would change my perceptive about my image.
It doesn’t. Not as much as I wanted it to, anyway.
When I decided to come here, I wanted everyone to see me strong. It’s my birthday, and I don’t even like this day, but no one will bully me into running away and hiding like I did this morning.
I wasn’t born to bow.
Zach stays by my side and Dan joins us every now and then. Even with them around, I feel as if I’m strolling around naked in a room full of people.
The back of my neck itches as I take a sip from the watered down drink Dan gave me. I know he is watching me.
I caught a glimpse of Levi on my way inside although I refused to look in his direction.
If I do, I don’t think I’ll be able to keep up this facade. I don’t think I’ll be able to continue my strong act.
I close my eyes for the briefest bit and draw in a long breath. I will not let Levi King ruin this night for me.
I’m not the same Astrid who caved in every time he touched me.
This time, I’ll flip him off in front of everyone.
Zach and I are talking about a conference he’s attending next week when a bull barges between us.
Jerry Huntington. The judge’s son, the one Levi fought.
He’s swaying on his feet, already drunk and the party has barely started.
“What do you want?” I ask.
“The same thing everyone here wants but are afraid to ask.” He licks his lips, swinging in my direction. “Your pussy, babe.”
Zach lunges forward, but I beat him to it.
I slam my fist into Jerry’s face so hard, pain explodes in my knuckles.
He steps back, shaking his head and I punch him again. “Talk to me that way again and I’ll ruin your face.”
He growls and lunges at me. People gather all around us, gasping. I keep my ground, ready to give him a piece of my mind.
Daniel slams his shoulder into Jerry, pushing him to the ground. Xander and some other player from the football team drag Jerry outside as he spouts profanity.