The Impact of You

Jase

Madison gives us a ride back to my place, and the reduced number of cars outside tells me the party has died down a bit. Once inside, I guide Avery straight for the staircase, not wanting anyone or anything to get in our way this time. I see from the corner of my eye that Stacia is still here, and her smug grin falls when she sees my grip on Avery’s hand. Too bad. She’s going to have to get over it, because Avery’s not going anywhere. I need this girl in my life. We’ve made plans for our families to meet this winter, to be together during spring break, and I hope every weekend in between too. If her past isn’t going to stop us, my ex-girlfriend certainly isn’t going to, either.

Avery’s hand tightens around mine and she dutifully follows me. I know she isn’t going to let Stacia interfere again. I’m proud of my girl.

her directly to my bedroom. It is Saturday night, and there is a party going on. Maybe she wants to hang out for a

just asked her if she likes murdering puppies. “Get your hot ass up those stairs and

ma’am.” She doesn’t have to tell me twice. If she’s even half as ready for this as me, she’s probably ready to combust. I

shut behind us. I need to calm myself so this isn’t over before it starts. I don’t want to embarrass myself. And