Page 17 (1/2)

Garrett’s eyes flash dark with shock

I freeze, realizing in an instantHe saw it

Oh God

I abruptly turn away, letting my hair fall back in place "Where are the bathroo down from the stool

"That way," Garrett says with a nod His face creases with concern "Carina--"

"Thanks," I answer shortly, fleeing for the safety of the women’s stall Inside, I lock the door and check the h his eyes The bruise has faded, just a little, but the ugly green and yellow ulp I shouldn’t feel ashamed, but I can’t help the flush of e

He doesn’t know anything, I tellmy wrists under the cold water to calm down It could have been an accident, I could have tripped and fallen; there are a dozen good explanations The only thing that willdeal

And it’s not I won’t let it be

I e around for Garrett There’s no sign of hih of relief I can leaveany questions he ain back at the house, there’s no way he’ll bring it up

My eyes drift over a fa a double take

"Dad?"

My father turns, his face brightening when he seeshere? How did you knoas in Beachwood?"

"I had a hunch" My father e his usual uniform of a crisp white Oxford shirt and tweed jacket, wire-ri, but perfectly styled: every inch the distinguished British acadeirls always seem to run back to this town, I can’t think why"

"I’m sorry I didn’t call," I tell hi’s OK"