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“It’s okay,” he soothes, caressing my back. “I’m here for you, pumpkin. No matter what happens, you know that I love you, right? You’re the only child I ever had and ever will.”

I nod in his chest, gripping his shirt tighter.

“What’s going on?”

At Aunt’s voice, I break away from Uncle wiping my eyes, but I keep my back to her.

Damn it.

I don’t want Aunt to see me this way either.

“Elsa was just having a bit of exam stress, right, pumpkin?”

I nod, not turning around.

“Go on and change.” Uncle smiles down at me. “Your friend will be waiting.”

I run to my room.

“Elsa,” Aunt calls, her footsteps sounding behind me. “What’s going on?”

“Let her go, Blair.”

I’m glad Uncle stops her as I go into my room. I barge into the bathroom and wash the itch beneath my hands. That stupid itch that wants to break free.

After freshening up, I change into simple skinny jeans and a tank top.

It’s going to be okay.

I think.

My phone vibrates.

My heart flips at the thought that it’s Aiden. I need him so much right now. I wish he’d just text me something.

Anything.

If he tells me it’s okay to have a life and my own decisions, I’ll cancel with Knox.

I’ll go to him instead.

Knox isn’t the one I want to see right now. It’s strange that when I’m a mess and need comfort, Aiden is the first one who comes to mind.

The text is from Knox, telling me he’ll be here in a few minutes.

Disappointment tugs at my stomach.

Of course, Aiden wouldn’t forfeit. It’s always his way or the highway.

Screw him.

I turn off my phone.

After pulling my hair into a ponytail, I exit my room. I’m about to go downstairs when I hear hushed yells coming from Aunt and Uncle’s bedroom.

The door is closed, but I do something I never did before.

I tiptoe closer. No sound comes out. Was I always able to move this silently?