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I sighed “It’s not just about doing what my family expects or wants -size bed and sat on the corner of it “I have so to prove”

“No, you don’t” He ot screwed by your sister and Seth Neither were the least bit contrite or apologetic about it And your parents overlooked the slight because of how desperately they want to e terful families”

“How do you know all of this?” I asked, because he was dead-on

“I spent several afternoons with theenius to see that your fa as it’s so the Carlisle name”

I let out a huffy breath because he was absolutely right It infuriated ullible, sobetween us Encouraged us to date Were thrilled to pieces e ht for us, no less Ourtrouble at Boston University, not living up to the Carlisle name or reputation”

“Marrying Seth changes all of that,” he pointed out “Plus, it helps her get back at you for being the smarter, prettier sister”

“I don’t subscribe to that,” I ad s ahat they have in order to make you feel special”

He grinned at me “That’s why I like you so much You’re just you”

I eyed hi toI’m not”

“No,” he was quick to reply “I’et you to own up to your feelings Accept them”

“Not when they have the potential to be detrimental to o through what I experienced with Seth”

He frowned “You’re essentially lu me onto the same shit pile as him”

“That’s not what I’”

He challenged me with a stern look

I sain “Okay, yes” I took his hand in ave it a quick squeeze as a nonverbal mea culpa “I lump all men onto the shit pile these days But…I know you’re different I’ to spare myself more heartache Can you understand that?”