I shot up from my seat, the glass in my hand shattering into pieces on the floor.The room was full of music and laughter, so no one really noticed, except Melvin Frazier. Sitting right next to me, he turned his head, his eyes sharp and watchful. His voice came out soft, almost too soft. "Sheila, what's wrong?"I shivered, teeth clenching as I looked at the man in front of me—the same man who would one day hit me so hard until I lost my baby, the same man who'd push me, fresh out of the hospital, to sleep with clients.As I recalled the tragedy that was my past life, the feelings I thought I had for him disappeared in an instant. It was as if I had woken up from a dream and realized I didn't love him anymore."My stomach hurts. I need to use the restroom," I whispered, my face pulling into just enough pain to sell the lie."Go on. I'll wait for you," Melvin said smoothly, not doubting me for a second.I nodded like a good girl, stood up, and walked out slowly. But the moment th
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