Tangled

52 Ava: Its Personal

Why not tell him you need to buy some sensitive things you don’t want him around for? Selene asks.

It isn’t that I hadn’t thought of that–but the electronics section is far from someplace that sells menstrual products.

“What’s wrong?” Rowan asks, and I realize with a start that I’m scowling in his direction.

Oops. “Nothing, I just-“I nibble on my thumbnail, trying my best to look a little distraught. “I need some things, but I didn’t think you’d be following me the entire time, so…”

Rowan smiles in relief, thinking he understands. “It’s fine. You can get anything you want. Clayton can afford it. He’s obnoxiously loaded.”

I was worried my acting was too much, but I guess it’s not enough. I wrinkle my nose and shift from foot to foot. After a moment, I start rubbing one arm, as if I’m beyond uncomfortable with my request.

I was never a very whiny teenager, but I’m trying to

12:12 —

1/7

channel one anyway.

“Oh, no, it’s not that

Personal”

it’s expensive, but–you know.

“Personal… Oh. Oh.” Rowan’s furrowed brow clears as he looks me over. “It’s fine. I have younger sisters.”

at Rowan in exasperation, giving up my shy act as I settle my hands on

really has

I don’t have any brothers who follow me around when I’m buying stuff for my period,” I

embarrassing, but I have a

see. That would be…” His words trail off,

me have this bit of privacy, holding strong to that young adolescent defiance as Selene hums her approval in my head. He holds my gaze for a beat before letting out a

12:12

Ava: Its

he looks to the ceiling,

catch.

peels off a few bills and hands them to me. “Here, get what

I’m here to help.”

through me. “Thanks.” I feel guilty using a man’s money when I have no interest in sticking

already turning to leave. “Just don’t go far. And be quick about it.”

it should be okay. I shake my head,

leaving me alone, I head toward the

12012

Its

It’s not like I really need them right now, but the act sells the story. I toss in a couple of shirts from the clearance

electronics section, keeping an eye out for Rowan. The coast is clear, so I beeline for the phone

Burner phones are easy enough to find, and I grab one along with a

heart is pounding as I make my purchase,

tight–lipped one of my own. I have to resist

any moment.

the transaction is complete, I hurry off to the bathroom, clutching the bag close to my body. The restroom is blessedly empty, and I duck into the largest stall, locking it behind

her approval

packaging for the

Ava. Its Personal

I already bought the things. I slip the phone itself into my pocket, along with the prepaid card.

you ready? Selene

deep breath, steadying myself. “As ready