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.”

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

has no

around when I’m buying stuff for my period,” I

I have a

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

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

12:12

Ava: Its Personal

as he looks to the ceiling, mouthing something I

catch.

pocket, Rowan pulls out a sleek black wallet and thumbs through it. He peels off a few bills and hands them to me. “Here, get what you need. I’ll wait by the entrance. Let me know if you need

I’m here

man’s money when I have no interest in sticking around

leave. “Just don’t go far. And be quick about

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

make sure he’s really leaving me alone, I head

12012

Ava: Its

brand or box. 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 rack, too -might as well make this little detour

keeping an eye out for Rowan. The coast is

to find, and I grab one along with a prepaid card to activate it later.

is pounding as I make

own. I have to resist the urge

at any

the bag close to my body. The restroom is blessedly empty, and I duck

approval

open the packaging for

Its

little like a shoplifter, even though I already

ready? Selene asks.

steadying myself. “As ready