[Previously titled 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲]
❝No, Ace. I can't do it," I sob.
"I know you can take more than that, sunshine, come on," he encourages, pummeling into me in fervent motions. "One more for daddy, yeah?" He coaxes in a gruffly voice...
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O L I V I A
It's been a week since that night, and I'm struggling to cope. I've been in tears for the past days, feeling drained both mentally and physically. I turned off my phone because I can't handle the thought of facing Ace or hearing from him right now.
Unfortunately, reality has other plans. He's my professor, so I can't avoid him. Enduring his presence, voice, and proximity for the rest of the school year feels daunting.
Despite Jordan's efforts to cheer me up, I'm still fighting back tears. I'm feeling down, especially with being sick on top of everything. After what happened, I feel like a mess, overwhelmed by my own sorrow and anger.
My naivety makes me feel foolish and vulnerable for opening up to him so quickly. I blame myself for it, and I'm angry at him for exploiting my trust and taking something so precious from me—my innocence.
Facing my mum scares me. I know she won't judge me, but I'm afraid of disappointing her. Also, I feel guilty for crashing at Jordan's unexpectedly, risking getting her sick. She's been taking care of me, supporting me both mentally and physically. I feel so grateful to have her in my life.
I sneeze into a tissue and dab at my runny nose before adjusting my mask. I diligently sanitize my hands, and Jordan gives me a concerned look. Today, after a week of battling depression, I've decided to attend class.
I wore a mask and brought hand sanitizer to be cautious. Jordan was hesitant, fearing I might not be ready. But I feel going out might distract me from my thoughts. Thankfully, there's no visual arts class today, so I'm in the clear for now.
"I don't know what got into me to let you come," Jordan mutters, and I suppress a smile beneath my mask.
"Oh, come on, don't give me that look. It's not the worst idea, right? Besides, look, I'm starting to look less like a ghost!" I reply with a playful gesture towards my face, and she just shakes her head.
"You look more like you're about to faint," she retorts, and I can't help but roll my eyes.
We head to the cafeteria for lunch, but the snow outside ruins my plan to sit outdoors. When we arrive, I spot Sam easily with her bright outfit. But my curiosity is piqued by the unfamiliar face at our table.
As we approach the group, I notice a tall boy with curly brown hair and tanned skin. Sam greets us enthusiastically, drawing everyone's attention. My heart races as the newcomer's gaze meets mine.
He's really good-looking, with a perfect mix of soft and strong features. His smile makes my cheeks warm, so I look away quickly, grateful for the mask hiding my embarrassment.
"Liv! It's so good to see you back. We were all worried when Jordan said you were sick," Sam exclaims, pulling me into a hug that I gladly return.
"How are you feeling today?" Everett inquires once Sam releases me.
