Letting My Brother's Best Friend Take My V-Card

CHAPTER 14 JESS

Josh and Luke had pitched up at the diner not even 20 minutes later last night. The waitress was kind enough

to help me clean my face and gave me a cup of coffee while I waited. I saw something in her eyes an understanding of why I didn't want to go to the police. We shared something, and now-something no one else would ever understand.

-

Josh wanted to know where I left Bryan, but I couldn't remember. I was very sober and awake at the diner, but before that, it was still a bit of a blur. Luke didn't say

anything. He just looked at me, clenching his fists and grinding his teeth. I could feel the anger roll off him in waves, so I avoided looking at him.

They both knew better than to ask me what happened. All Josh wanted to know was if I needed the hospital, which I didn't. I had a few small cuts, and I'd have bruises, but nothing that warranted the emergency department. The rest of the drive was quiet. Very quiet until Josh mentioned the police. I panicked.

"No police." I'd said, and Josh wanted to argue with me, but Luke stopped him. "It's her choice. We won't be the ones defending ourselves. It never turns out good for the girl." Luke said, and I was relieved he understood. For a second, I wondered how he knew what I couldn't say out loud...

14.12 M

CHAPTER 14

my house, where Laura waited for me in the doorway, worry plastered on her face. She pulled

was gone somehow. The world wasn't as bright, and

made us coffee. I told her what happened last

and I'd make him chew it." Laura was staring out the window, avoiding looking at me. Everyone avoided looking at me. I stared up at the mirror and saw the bruise starting to form across the left side "I'm sorry, Jess. I'm sorry I didn't answer." Laura looked guilty, but it wasn't her fault. It was mine. I made a

attention. Luke and Josh were fighting, and I could just make out what they

man! I told you he was a fucking sleaze!" Luke yelled, and something hit

I fucking get it! It's my fault!" Josh was blaming

throwing off my covers." I should go down there before they rip each other's

CHAPTER 14

them talk it out. They are way too angry to listen to any reason anyway. It's been like that since you got home."

it." I fell back, slapping a palm across my face, feeling the hangover hit me hard.

He was so upset, and I'd never seen him like that.

raced.

frantic about me? That

didn't care about me. Maybe he felt responsible

you, but I think he was just annoyed that