Chapter 15

Aidan, back then...

The bruises on my ribcage ached with every breath as I tossed and turned in my bed, unable to sleep.

Anger simmered in my gut, fueled by the bitter resentment that had become as familiar as an old friend.

Of course, after I came back from the party, my father had to go on another angry rage and use me as a punching bag. And once again, I just took it like a pathetic little asshole.

The following day, I slammed my fist into the locker, the sharp pain barely registering against the roar of rage in my veins.

Then I saw her.

Ivy was hurrying down the hall, her gaze flickering nervously around the crowded corridor. She was like a rabbit caught in a snare, helpless and trembling. The sight of her vulnerability ignited the anger burning within me into an inferno.