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.”

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

guy really has no clue.

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

I have a goal.

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

holding strong to that young adolescent defiance as Selene hums her approval in my

12:12

Ava: Its

as he looks to the ceiling, mouthing something I can’t

catch.

black wallet and thumbs through it. He peels off a few bills and hands

here to help.”

cash, relief flooding through me. “Thanks.” I feel guilty using a man’s money when I have no

turning to leave. “Just don’t go

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

sure he’s really leaving me alone, I

12012

Ava: Its

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

in hand, I make my way back toward the electronics section, keeping an eye out

Burner phones are easy enough to find, and I grab one along with a prepaid card to activate it later.

as I make my purchase, the

own. I have to resist the urge to look over my

at any moment.

I hurry off to the bathroom, clutching the bag close to my body.

approval in my mind.

packaging for the

Its Personal

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

ready? Selene

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