Anastasia » l.h

ELEVEN

Months pass, from May through August. Although it seemed like a year, it was only months. And although I'd only gained five kilograms, it seemed like 20.

I stare at my reflection, wearing only a black bra and black underwear. I've never been a lacy bra and matching thong person. I now know that there's really no point in wearing them. Luke and I are still together, and he hasn't cared about what underwear I wear.

Sighing solemnly, I close my eyes. I don't want to look at myself any longer.

"Anastasia? Are you hungry?" I still live with the Hemmings'. And they've been awfully nice, surprisingly enough. Jack and Ben aren't as rude, Liz and Andrew are lovelier than ever and Luke is just perfect.

There are repetitive knocks on the door, and I know that it is Andrew. He's hardly ever home, and tonight, being a Saturday, is one of the rare times in which he is actually home. "Ana?"

I smile, knowing that he's going to insist I eat again. Luke isn't going to rest until I have at least a slice of cheese. "Not really, Andrew. But I'll have something anyway."

He tells me that I should be downstairs in about five minutes, and I hear his heavy footsteps become quieter. I look back to the mirror, frowning at the girl I see before me. Her dark hair flows past her small breasts, and her skinny thighs are engulfed by Luke's black jumper. This girl is me. And I don't like it. Skinny jeans just show how bony and skinny I am.

It's funny. Only three months ago I thought I was funny. I suppose that's what Luke has done to me.

•¥•

"You've gained weight," Liz smiles, swallowing the small cut of steak that was on her fork. The Hemmings' have a lovely way of living, compared to my mother and I. They have matching cutlery sets and matching bowls and plates. I really long for their dedication and organisation. I just can't be bothered to be so tidy and well kept. "You're looking great."

Luke, who sits next to me with his large hand on my thigh, nods, agreeing with his mother. "Mum's right, you look amazing."

I smile at them, noticing that Jack and Ben are forcing smiles. They're not very subtle, and it's kind of entertaining. To see them try so hard to be kind to me. It's a strange and very rare thing. My hand finds Luke's under the table, and I glance to him, finding the blush that has found its way to his cheeks absolutely adorable.

Luke and I have been so close these past few months. Since the incident with Dylan, Luke has been protective of me like he's my husband, and actually treats me just as he does at home at school. He's actually lost friends, which is downright ridiculous. But I've gained a clique. And I can't complain too much.

Speaking of Dylan, everything between us is great. He's been kind to me at school and here, when he visits. Although Luke is so damn protective of me, Dylan's occasional visit is lovely.

"Make sure you eat something, love." Andrew smiles at me, gesturing my eyes toward my plate with his silver fork. "Even if it isn't much."

I hear a scoff at the other end of the table, and I look toward the culprit. To my very small surprise, it is Jack. "Why does she get so much attention? Just because she's too skinny."

Luke immediately snaps back. "She gets attention because she's sick! Stop being such a dick, Jack!"

So much for a nice dinner.

I put down my cutlery and sigh, watching the fight. Ben defends the older brother. "You're only defending her because you get a good fuck out of her once and a while."

Liz gasps, covering her mouth with her ring-inundated hand. Andrew glares at his son with eyes like fire, banging the table as he stands. "Ben! That is no way to talk around women. Especially your mother and our guest!"