Chapter 13 He'll Bite

• Hailey
• Reluctance gnawed at me as I recalled our earlier conversation. His threat to expel Ricky had been a low blow, a clear abuse of his power. His words echoed ominously in my mind, a constant reminder that being with him was a dangerous gamble. Yet, despite my better judgment, I found myself rifling through my closet, pulling out a red cocktail dress with a daring low back. It was the kind of dress that demanded attention, one that made a statement.
• As I slipped into the silky fabric, I stood in front of the mirror, searching for a reason—any reason—to change into something more modest. But the dress clung to my curves in all the right places, the vibrant red a stark contrast to my long blonde hair cascading down to my waist. My reflection stared back at me. The dress was perfect, and I knew it.