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.”

my shy

has

follow me around when I’m buying stuff for my

I have a

“Oh, I see. That would be…” His words trail

eyebrow, challenging him to just let me have this bit of privacy, holding strong to that young adolescent defiance as Selene hums her approval in

12:12

Ava: Its

face as he looks to the ceiling, mouthing something

catch.

off a few bills and hands them

I’m here to

the cash, relief flooding through me. “Thanks.” I feel guilty using a man’s money when I have no interest in sticking around the way he wants, but- well, desperate

turning to leave. “Just don’t go far. And be

away, I catch the faint sound of hist mutterings. Something about the store being well–guarded, so it should be okay. I shake my head, tucking the money into my pocket. At least he’s finally giving me

last glance over my shoulder to make sure he’s really leaving me alone, I head toward the personal products section to make it

12012

Ava: Its Personal

trying not to linger too long on any one brand or box. It’s not like I really need them right now, but the act sells the story. I

an eye out for Rowan. The coast is clear, so I beeline for

grab one along with

pounding as I

return with a tight–lipped one of my own. I have to resist the urge to look

any moment.

the bathroom, clutching the bag close to my body. The restroom is blessedly empty, and I duck into the largest stall, locking

her approval in my

packaging for

Its Personal

trash makes me feel a little like a shoplifter, even though I already bought the things. I

you ready? Selene asks.

deep breath, steadying myself. “As ready as I’ll