Hendrix

by Kelsey Clayton

Maddie follows behind as he brings me into his bathroom. He turns me so I'm facing the mirror, and I already know what he's about to do. I shake my head and squeeze my eyes shut as he pulls up my shirt. “Don't,” I plead, trying to get away. “I don't want to see it.” “Open your eyes, Saige,” he demands. “No.” “Saige,” Maddie says, and I can hear in her tone, she's crying. “You need to look.” Reluctantly, I force my eyes open and stare at my reflection. There are bruises all over my body—some healing and others still livid and swollen. My skin looks more black and purple than it does my normal pale complexion. As I look over all the damage Topher caused, I feel my chest tighten. “He loves me,” I croak, not even sure if I believe my own words anymore. Colby shakes his head. “Someone who loves you wouldn't do this. Take it from someone who knows what it's like to love you.”