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 —

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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 on my hips.

has

buying stuff for my period,” I say, channeling my inner dramatic teenager, instead.

embarrassing, but I have a

throat. “Oh, I see. That would be…” His words trail off, and he

holding strong to that young adolescent defiance

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Ava: Its Personal

face as he looks to the ceiling, mouthing something

catch.

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

here to help.”

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

to leave. “Just don’t go far. And

Something about the store being well–guarded, so it should be okay. I shake my head, tucking the money

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

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Ava: Its Personal

and pads, 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 toss

my basket in hand, I make my way back toward the electronics section, keeping an eye out for Rowan. The

grab one along with a prepaid card to activate it later.

I

I return with a tight–lipped one of my own. I have to resist the urge to look over my shoulder, worried that

at any

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

her approval in my

for the burner phone

Its Personal

like a shoplifter, even though I already bought the things. I slip the phone itself into my pocket, along

ready?

a deep breath, steadying myself. “As ready