After tossing all my cosmetics back into my bag, I pull my hair into a tight bun and get dressed for the day, secretly hoping he’s sitting in the chair my mom was in, waiting for me.

He’s not. Of course, he’s not. Quickly, I put on some flared dress slacks and a white starched shirt, then roll up the sleeves. I slip on a pair of plain black pumps and reach for my phone. Huffing in and out in short breaths, I call Cher.

“Pick up, Cher,” I grumble as the phone just rings. Finally, I hang up and text.

ME: I can’t begin to get into how fucked I am. Where are you?

She’s probably not gonna see this for hours, and I need to go to work. How am I gonna sit next to him and pretend I’m fine? Should I tell him what happened?

I grab my bag and slowly walk out, looking to make sure my mom isn’t around, then speed walk down the stairs, almost colliding with Jett. I scream.

Frowning, he holds me. “You okay?”

“I—”

“Oh, there you are, Raven. Jett and I were just discussing our date night tonight. I’ll have Maria make you dinner. You don’t mind, right?” She’s wearing her stupid red silk robe again, hair wet and off her face, but she’s reapplied her makeup.

“Rachel.” Jett sighs as he lets go of my arms. “Raven can eat with us.” He walks over to grab his suit jacket.

“Why would she? That would be… uncomfortable.” She slithers over to him as he looks down at her. Bile rises in my throat. Watching him, with her, is making me physically ill. What can he possibly see in her? Because all I see is a manipulative, hateful person.

“I’m not feeling well,” I announce, watching my mom smile up at him, then glance over at me, eyes narrowed. My hand is tingling. Jesus, for a second I actually saw myself slapping and clawing at her fake face.

“Let’s go. We’re late.” He buttons his suit, frowning at me.

“I really don’t feel well at all.” I was wrong. I can’t be near him right now. It hurts too much.

I need to think, regroup, get a plan, because this one has matured into a situation my heart can’t seem to handle.

Not after last night.

“Oh dear.” She cocks her head at me. “Jett, Raven should stay home today. If she has something, you don’t want her giving it to everyone.”

I barely hear my mom’s voice as I stare at Jett. His beautiful blue eyes search my face, and for a split second he looks like he might actually touch me. Instead, he nods.

“Get some rest. You’re pale.” He turns to leave.