Chapter 8

Carter’s here to take Brittany to pick out her wedding dress. Five years, and they’re finally tying the knot.

Mom glances at me, worried I’ll be upset. I smile.

Someone who’s been dragged through the mud isn’t going to lust after some shiny prince anymore.

I watch them leave, and Carter turns back suddenly.

“It might be a little hard for Brittany to try on wedding dresses alone, could you help her carry her purse?”

He’s staring right into my eyes, like he’s trying to read my soul. I’m taken aback.

Isn’t he supposed to hate me? I suddenly remember all those times he’d show a small bit of kindness to give me hope, make me want to try again, even when I wanted to give up.

It always gave me the illusion that Carter cared about me.

But it was just an illusion!

“Oh, right, Ashley, I remember you play the piano so well. Could you perform at the wedding?”

Brittany looks at me all sweet and innocent, like she’s genuinely hoping for my blessing.

But I can see the warning in her eyes. Because she’s the one who broke my hands five years ago.

I can still feel the phantom pain. Everyone’s waiting for my answer.

Do I even have a choice?

If I say yes, they’ll say I’m scheming something.

If I say no, they’ll say I haven’t learned my lesson, and they’ll send me back to the hospital.

Whatever I do, I’m wrong. It’s like I was born to fail.

I don’t answer.

Finally, Mom sees how uncomfortable I am and sends me away. Before I go, I make sure to give them a genuine goodbye.

“I sincerely wish you both happiness together, congrats on the wedding! Please, just leave me alone!”

For some reason, Carter looks even angrier after I say that. But who cares?

From now on, his life isn’t my top priority!