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.”

giving up my shy act as I settle

guy really has no

stuff for my period,” I say,

but I

would be…” His words trail off, and

few moments, locked in an uncomfortable silence. I raise an eyebrow, challenging him to just let me have this bit of privacy, holding strong to

12:12

Its Personal

he looks to the ceiling, mouthing something I

catch.

pulls out a sleek black wallet and thumbs through it. He peels off a few bills

here to help.”

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,

nods once, already turning to leave. “Just don’t go far. And be

it should be okay. I shake my head, tucking the money into my pocket. At least he’s finally giving me some space.

shoulder to make sure he’s really leaving me alone, I head toward the personal products

12012

Ava: Its

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

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

enough to find, and I grab one

heart is pounding as I make my

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

at any moment.

my body. The restroom is blessedly empty, and I duck into the largest stall,

hums her approval

the packaging for

Its Personal

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

ready? Selene

a deep breath, steadying myself. “As ready