Wicked Liars (Windsor Academy 1)

Peyton’s face turns red. “He did not dump me! We mutually decided to take a break.”

I scoff. Sheesh, this girl is delusional. “Sure, let’s go with that.”

Madeline looks back at Peyton. “You two broke up again? I thought you had settled your... issues.”

Peyton moves the berries around on her plate. “Just temporarily. I’ve given him permission to sow his oats, or whatever, before we graduate and it’s time to get serious.” She looks me directly in the eye. “You might have his attention now, but that won’t last. You can’t keep him. He always comes back to me.”

“I don’t want him. How many times do I have to tell you that?”

She rolls her eyes. “Right. Then why are you hanging out with him?”

I grind my teeth. “We’re... friends. I’m also friends with his sister. Are you going to accuse me of wanting Ainsley as well?”

Madeline clears her throat. “Jasmine, I didn’t realize you and Kingston were spending time together. When did that start?”

“This week.” I shrug. “It’s no big deal. We hung out once. And my seven-year-old sister was with us almost the entire time.”

Peyton’s jaw drops. “Kingston doesn’t like little kids. Why would he spend time with one?”

I smirk. “Hmm, that’s weird, because if you ask me, he’s pretty great with ‘em.”

Madeline looks upset, but for some reason, Charles looks pleased with this bit of information.

Charles takes a sip of his coffee. “Well, I’m glad to hear you’re making friends, Jasmine. Kingston Davenport is a fine young man. I approve of your association with him.”

I give him a look that says, Gee, thanks, because your approval makes my life complete.

“Daddy!” Peyton shouts.

Charles rolls his eyes. “Oh, don’t be such a poor sport, Peyton. Men aren’t built to be monogamous. If Kingston wants to spend a little time with Jasmine—or any other girl, for that matter—it’s none of your business. Trying to force his hand will accomplish nothing. You know better than to expect otherwise.”

I bite my tongue to prevent myself from going off on his misogynistic ass.

Peyton’s nostrils flare before she schools her expression and smiles. “You’re right, Daddy. Of course.”

He nods. “Of course I’m right.”

Ms. Williams walks into the room. “Excuse the interruption, but the younger Mr. Davenport just pulled into the driveway.”

Thank God.

My fork clinks on my plate when I drop it. “That’s my ride.”

Madeline and Peyton gasp in unison.

Sperm Donor smiles. “You may be excused, Jasmine. Have a great day at school.”

I grab my bag from beneath the table and pull it over my shoulder. “Yeah... thanks.”

I can’t escape the Twilight Zone fast enough. I step out the front door right as Kingston is pulling up.

God, I wish I didn’t find his car so sexy, but I do. I really do. I fumble for a minute before I can figure out how to open the door before sliding into the passenger seat.

“Hey.” Kingston’s eyes are glued to my thighs.

I yank my plaid skirt back into place. It had ridden up as I was getting into the car. I need to be more cautious—I’m still not used to wearing these damn things every day.

“Hey. You showed up just in time to save me from the most awkward breakfast ever. I’m pretty sure Peyton was ready to claw my eyes out.”