Chapter 12

Aina I came home feeling heavy and low after what happened. My parents were not around, only Josh was there, acting as though I didn’t even exist. After putting the groceries away, I headed for my room, but his voice stopped me. “What about Suzy?” he asked. I didn’t feel like talking to anyone; my mood had already soured. “Why don’t you call her?” I replied, continuing toward my room. Then his voice cut through again, sharper this time. “Just because you’re mated to Osborne doesn’t mean you’re better than everyone else.” If only he could see what I felt inside, he’d laugh. I was a coward—always have been, always will be. Worthless. Someone like me didn’t deserve a man like Osborne. Tears stung my eyes. I couldn’t even stand up to those girls earlier. Maybe I should just fade back into the shadows where I belonged. I hated myself. Why couldn’t I be beautiful like other women? Why did I have to be fat and ugly? I’d tried everything to change, but my body refused to cooperate. I’d re