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“Already on top of it, princess.” I kiss her roughly before hopping out of the pool, grabbing up my clothes, and jumping the back fence in just my skivvies.

Thankfully, I’ve remembered my phone, and I call a car once I’m outside the front gate, sliding on my jeans over my still-wet undies.

It’s familiar, sneaking out of Meredith’s parents’ estate, but not totally welcome.

I guess I’ll never be more than her dirty little secret.

ChapterTwenty-Five

MEREDITH

I’m still breathinghard from the stress of Mother walking out to the pool while Logan was underwater, and I hope to God I haven’t caused any damage.

He kissed me thoroughly, and part of me wondered if I was covered with his marks. Just to be safe, I cinched my pool robe up high to cover most of my throat.

My mother hums as I pad into the kitchen after looking over the back fence to make sure Logan is gone.

I really panicked, and I feel bad for shoving him underwater. But it would have been much worse if she’d found him there, locked onto my mouth.

It would have been awkward and stressful for all involved. Right?

“What are you humming about?” I wasn’t expecting her back until tomorrow, and I’m not super happy about her being home early.

I really have to get my own place.

And I’m halfway there, saving all my paychecks from Logan except for what I absolutely need.

“You’ve just put on a little weight since I’ve been gone. You should really watch your carbs, honey.”

“Yeah, yeah.” I’m not surprised that she’s criticizing my weight. She always has, even when I was a chubby preteen who just hadn’t grown into herself yet. I knew this was coming, but I can’t say I’m excited about it. “I’ll do better.”

“Looks like you ordered pizza. You know pizza goes right to your hips, Meredith.”

“Maybe a little hip isn’t such a bad thing, Mother.” I can’t help but talk back.

I’m grown up now, and I’m tired of feeling like a scared teenager.

She holds up her hands. “I’m not judging. I just don’t want you complaining when it’s time to have your beach body.”

I won’t be complaining. I’ll be huge.

I bite my lip and stalk upstairs to my room.

“Meredith, don’t be so sensitive!” she calls after me, but I ignore her, heading to shower off and then towel-drying my hair, putting on a big T-shirt, and plopping into bed with a huff.

I’d hoped I’d have more time to be with Logan, but that clearly isn’t happening.

I text him,Sorry I almost drowned you.

Logan:I’m alive.

I grin.

Me:You’re coming with me to the OB?

Logan:Wouldn’t miss it. I’ll meet you there tomorrow at nine.

I smile down at my phone and then there’s a light knock on my door. I put my phone under my pillow as my mother opens my bedroom door.