Chapter 4

"I'm going to the restroom."

I stood up, my legs somewhat weak.

Bethany was still acting cute and didn't notice my expression. Ethan's gaze followed me, but I pretended not to see.

The restroom lights were bright—blindingly bright.

I leaned against the sink and looked down to discover bloodstains on my pants.

My mind buzzed.

My stomach still ached dully—it hadn't stopped since the tutoring center. I'd thought I'd just hit the corner of a desk, but now it seemed much more serious.

I pulled out my phone and called my best friend. "Nina... are you still busy? Could you come pick me up? I think... I'm sick..."

Nina immediately panicked. "Send me your location! I'm coming right now!"

I gave her the location, hung up, and leaned against the sink.

Everything I'd experienced today left me physically and mentally exhausted, deeply distressed.

Just then, the restroom door was pushed open.

It was Ethan.

His expression showed a flash of guilt and panic.

"Joanna," he spoke first.

I looked at him without saying anything.

He took a step closer. Seeing I didn't resist, he tried to reach for me.

My reaction was quick—the next second, I slapped him hard across the face.

He turned his head aside, pressed his lips together, and said in a low voice, "I'm sorry, but it's not what you think."

My voice was very soft. "Then what is it?"

He tried to move closer again. I dodged slightly, but he looked hurt.

"Four years ago, someone got me drunk. When I woke up the next day, I didn't remember anything—just that some young woman came into the wrong room. Then Bethany found me."

"She was only twenty that year—too young. She cried so much and told me she didn't know what to do. She was so young—I couldn't let her ruin her whole life because of me."

I couldn't help it—I slapped him again. "Ethan Rivers, do you remember how old I was when you made me have an abortion?"

He looked blank for a moment. My tears fell. "I was only nineteen."

His eyes immediately reddened, and his voice dropped very low. "I'm sorry, Joanna."

"Back then the doctor said you'd have difficulty getting pregnant again, so I treasure this child."

"Ethan Rivers." I cut him off. "Let go of me."

He didn't let go.

"I'll spend more time with you after I finish up some work. Don't make a scene now, okay?"