Chapter 1

Aiden's words struck me like a bolt from the blue, leaving me utterly defenseless. My mind went blank.

Despite the sweltering summer heat, I felt icy cold. The classroom conversation continued; his friends fell silent for a moment before resuming. "Classic Aiden," one said, "using the perfect girl as practice."

"So she's basically his personal plaything?" another chimed in.

Aiden laughed carelessly. "Come on, guys, it's not like she didn't enjoy it."

Someone quickly agreed. "True. Though she is kind of skinny compared to Madison's curves..."

Aiden threw a textbook at him, silencing him mid-sentence. "Look, we were both caught up in the moment. And she seemed pretty...eager."

The guys exchanged knowing glances and resumed teasing him. "Who knew Little Miss Perfect was so thirsty?"

"Can't blame her—our boy Aiden's got game. Might as well take what's offered."

"After pining after you for so many years, bet she couldn't wait to get her hands on you."

Their laughter filled the room. I bit my lip hard, my hands clenched into fists. Staying upright outside that classroom door required every ounce of my strength.

Footsteps echoed from the end of the hallway. Snapping back to reality, I fled, stumbling into a bathroom stall to hide.