Girlfriend for Hire

Chapter Two: Between the Pages

Disclaimer:

This chapter contains depictions of verbal abuse and trauma that may be disturbing to some readers. The characters in this story navigate difficult situations that may resonate with real-life experiences. Reader discretion is advised. If you find yourself triggered or distressed by the content, please consider taking a break or seeking support. It is important to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being while engaging with this material.

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Anabelle Thorne

I sat amidst the towering shelves of the school library, surrounded by the comforting scent of old books and the soft hush of whispered pages. As the president of Whispering Pines School Book Club, this was my sanctuary, a place where I could lose myself in the world of literature and escape the chaos of high school—and the chaos of my own life.

Today, however, my sanctuary felt tainted by the harsh realities outside its walls. Jake, the school president, sat across from me, his voice cutting through the tranquil atmosphere with his usual arrogance. I tried to tune out his words as he led the group discussion, but his condescending remarks today stung more than usual.

"What do you think you're wearing?" Jake scoffed, eyeing my attire with thinly veiled disdain. "I thought we were here to discuss literature, not for you to embarrass me."

I bit my lip, resisting the urge to snap back. 'Yeah, discuss literature, not my outfit.' That's what I wanted to say but couldn't find the courage.

My heart sank, a knot forming in my throat as I struggled to respond. "What's wrong with what I'm wearing? I like it," I muttered, my voice barely above a whisper.

Mike's eyes narrowed, his lips curling into a sneer. "Maybe lay off the burgers, B," he joked, a cruel smirk on his face.

A flush of anger rose in my cheeks. My fists clenched at my sides as I fought to keep my composure. "Or at least cut it out with the shakes," Jenny chimed in, her laughter echoing through the library.

Kyra shot them a reproachful glare, her expression clouded with disapproval. "Hey, lay off, guys," she scolded. "That's not funny."

But Jake remained unfazed, his gaze fixed on me with an intensity that made my skin crawl. "Come on, babe," he said, his voice dripping with condescension. "You know I'm just looking out for you. Can't have my first lady embarrassing me in front of everyone, can I?"

My stomach churned at his words, humiliation washing over me. I forced a tight-lipped smile, my hands trembling with suppressed rage as I fought to hold back tears.

With a heavy heart, I turned away from Jake's smug expression, my shoulders slumping with defeat. A familiar ache of longing stirred deep within my chest.

Clearing my throat, I attempted to push aside the discomfort of Jake's remarks. "D...did everyone manage to complete the reading for tomorrow's English class?" I asked, my voice wavering.

A few nods and murmurs followed, but my gaze lingered on Jake, who remained conspicuously silent. "... And go through the reference textbook?" I continued, frustration creeping into my tone.

Emily furrowed her brow in confusion. "Um, there was a reference textbook this whole time?" she asked, her eyes widening.

I sighed inwardly, feeling a pang of exasperation. "Yes, Emily," I replied, forcing a tight smile. "It's essential for our English assignment."