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My lips press flat, the jealousy consuming my rational thoughts. “Will Lane be there?”
Austin’s head flinches back slightly. “What the hell is going on?”
“You’re not answering me.”
“Because you’re not explaining why you’ve shown up, unannounced, and are questioning me on my whereabouts or who I will hang out with?”
My pulse quickens as my muscles begin to quiver. Austin standing there, ready to go out with God knows who, reiterates how his life has not changed at all. I’m the one who has paid the price for our indiscretion and will continue to do so for the rest of my life.
His family was excited to learn of the baby, according to him. Mine is at war with me, at least—Millie is. Austin can continue his career, his dating, and all the things he does without having to carry a baby.
And he doesn’t have to give birth in a few short months.
“You know what? I can’t even speak to you.”
As I turn away, Austin grabs my arm to stop me. “What the hell is wrong with you?”
Lowering my eyes, I gaze at the concrete floor. “You’ve got it easy. You’re not the villain. It’s me. I’m the one who must suffer for my mistakes.”
Austin lets out a sigh, and just as he’s about to open his mouth, my phone beeps with a text message. I pull it out of my pocket to glance at it.
Eric: Too late, TMZ just posted this article. Sorry honey. Call me when you’re ready to talk.
I click on the link, and there is the headline—Influencer and Daughter of Lex Edwards Pregnant with an Unknown Man.
The article is three paragraphs about me being pregnant, my father’s reaction, and how my family has shunned me. According to them, Lex Edwards has completely cut me off. Then, in paragraph two, it says, Ava is known to frequent the party scene, so we’re not surprised this has happened given her long list of lovers.
Along with the article are several photos of me. The angles they photographed me make me look pregnant, or I’ve purposely concealed my stomach with a bag, making it look more pronounced.
My body collapses in on itself as my chest begins to hitch. Then, without a single word, I hand Austin the phone for him to read. Moments later, he releases a sigh, only for my phone to ping again.
“There’s a message on your screen from Millie,” he warns me softly.
I swallow the lump inside my throat. “What does it say?”
Austin’s hesitation is enough for me to figure out it isn’t pleasant, nor an ‘I’m sorry’.
“Ava, look—”
“Just tell me!”
He doesn’t tell me. Instead, he hands the phone back.
Millie: It’s only a matter of time until TMZ finds out who the father is, and you’ve destroyed us all. Thanks again, sis.
My arms fall to my sides, causing the phone to almost slip out of my hand. The pain inside my chest and throat makes it difficult even to think or move. I’m humiliated, and soon everyone will know the truth. No matter what I say or do, they’ll judge me on my actions, and I will forever be labeled a whore.
“Ava, come in, please.”
I shake my head. “I want to be alone.”
“Okay, but I’m always here if you need me. You know that, right?”
I kn
ew that. Just like I know Austin will never understand what it’s like to walk a mile in my shoes.
Without another word, I walk away.
