Page 87 of Isolation

“So, he manipulated you?”

I am taken back by the harsh words. I am sure it's written all over my face as well. This whole inquiry seems unnecessary. It can only bring up resentment over a past that we can't change. “I didn’t say that.”

“You implied it.”

“Are you telling me that you have never tried to manipulate me?” I ask in a frustrated voice.

Milo is being hypocritical right now. At times, all three Sinclair siblings, Milo included, have manipulated me. It’s not intentional. They do it absentmindedly.

Would I ever let another other person without the Sinclair last name get away with the same things?

Hell no.

Why do I look the other way when it comes to them?

In every way, each Sinclair has done more for me than my own parents who brought me to life. This gratitude for the Sinclairs will always exist in my heart.

The way I see it, it’s picking your battles. If it’s something that I can provide without an extensive fight with myself, it makes me happy to do so. Plus, remember? I am a Sinclair pleaser.

Reid knew that I didn't view him romantically. All he asked of me was to try for something more. His arguments resonated with me.

Was I aware that he was wording his arguments in a way that would resonate with me?

Yes.

Could that be considered manipulation?

Perhaps.

All the same, did it change anything?

No.

Reid drew a picture of the type of life I have always wanted. I wasn't interested in anyone else. And I never thought Milo and I would be in this position.

It meant the world to Reid if I agreed to something more. At that time, nothing was holding me back from at least considering what he was asking of me.

But Milo is still unforgiving of that simple consideration. He frowns at my response. He looks irritated again and I am starting to feel likethat little girl being disciplined by an adult.

"So, now I am the one manipulating you?" Milo snaps at me.

What is going on today? We haven't argued in weeks and now shit just keep piling up.

I sigh. "Look, I don't want to keep arguing with you.When I agreed to Reid, we hadn’t seen each other in years and you weren’t exactly my favorite person. But things have changed between us. I feel differently for you. Can’t we just focus on that?”

Milo pauses for a few minutes andsearches my eyes for a minute longer. “Okay.” He slowly lies back on his pillow and closes his eyes. “Now, about my other cheek.”

“Excuse me.”

“My other cheek,” Milo repeats simply. “You were supposed to kiss my other cheek before you distracted me with your Harlotten ways.”

I turn to stare at him.

I am shocked.

We just had an intense conversation that I thought would send Milo off the rails. Instead, he seems placated with my answer.

I am happily surprised by how quickly Milo can let go of shit now. It’s beyond sexy when a man can do that instead of whining and bitching.