Page 12 of The Destruction You Desire

I move through the crowds until I spot the flash of pink I've been craving. Just like at the toga party last weekend, she's in the middle of the dance floor, with the others close by. Ella has her tongue down some guy’s throat while Letty rubs herself up against Kane as if they're in a room alone.

Ripping my eyes from everyone else, I focus on Peyton, desperate for the crowd to part so I can see who she's dancing with.

But the second that does happen, I wish it hadn't because a red haze like I've never experienced before descends upon me and I'm moving before I even realize my feet have left the floor.

Those who see me coming jump aside, those who don't soon find themself barged out of my way as I fly toward my brother.

"You motherfucker," I roar, pulling my arm back and slamming it into his cheek.

Peyton screams in shock as Leon releases her and goes stumbling backward.

Others cry and shout as I approach Leon once more but instead of coming at me, all he does is hold his hands up in defense as his cheek burns red.

"It's not what you think, bro."

As he says the words, a flash of pink races past me as Peyton runs full speed through the break in the crowd.

"You fucking idiot."

"Peyton wait," Letty shouts but I'm faster than all of them despite the fact my body is entirely fueled by alcohol right now.

I take the stairs two at a time, hot on her heels. She flies past the line to the bathroom and dives inside right as someone exits, much to the complaints of the people waiting to go inside.

She slams the door but unfortunately for her, she's not quite quick enough. My palm connects with the wood and I push it open before she gets a chance to lock it.

"Leave me alone, Luc, please," she begs, wrapping her arms around her waist as if she's physically trying to hold herself together.

Slamming the door behind me, I cut off the complaints of the others who are waiting and I flip the lock.

I take a step toward her and she takes a hesitant one back.

"W-what do you want, Luc?"

I consider her question for a few seconds.

"Honestly. I have no fucking clue."

She gasps when she runs out of space behind her and bumps up against the wall.

"I-I'm sorry you found out like that. That wasn't—" Her words are cut off when my hand flies out and pins her against the wall by her throat.

She swallows nervously, her body trembling as tears pool in her eyes.

"Stop," I boom. "Just stop."

My chest heaves as I stare at her almost cowering away from me.

I hold her wide eyes for a beat before I drop mine to her pink lips. They’re so full and I already know just how sweet they taste. Then I drop lower to her dress. It's the first time I really get to look at her and fuck.

"You look…"Beautiful. I swallow down the word as the confusion I've battled with all day only gets stronger.

Hurt her.

Take her.

Punish her.

Make her yours.