Chapter 75. Just a Chance

Ava

I leaned in and brushed my lips against hers, just a soft peck, barely more than breath.

She jerked back like I’d burned her, hands flying up between us, eyes wide and shocked.

“Ava, no…”

I let out a low, bitter laugh, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand.

“You said anything,” I reminded her, voice sharp now, all the fake fragility gone. “You sat right here and swore you’d do anything to make me feel better. One little kiss and suddenly it’s not right?”

Her face flushed crimson, mouth opening and closing like she couldn’t find the words.

“I, I meant talk, or food, or… not this,” she whispered, scooting back on the bed, knees pulled to her chest.

I tilted my head, stared at her, and felt something vicious curl in my chest.

“Funny,” I said, voice dripping with acid, “how right and wrong get real flexible in this family when it suits you.”

I wish I could tell her.

I wish I could lean in and whisper every f