Chapter Eighteen - Jaden

I wipe the mascara from the corner of my eye. It doesn't matter that I'm hiding in the bathroom on the second floor of the art's center like a child, or that I'm missing my class this hour.

It should matter but it doesn't. I can't be ashamed anymore, because I'd rather be weak than humiliated in front of an entire campus of students.

The door opens and I lift my feet to the closed toilet seat and curl my knees into my chest. My phone buzzes in my pocket. Another text from my dad.

It's only a matter of time before he shows up unexpected, so I answer.

"Hello."

He sighs heavily. "I've texted and called you for hours, Jaden. Where have you been?"

I stare at the bathroom stall door. "I've been in class, Dad."

I hear him starting his car in the background and his engine roar. "Your brother said you were coming home the other night, but you didn't show up. Funny you didn't mention it to me?"

The toilet next to me flushes. "Are