SADE

If I were asked why I was so hurt, why it hurts so much that it feels like I couldn't breathe, I wouldn't be able to answer.

But it hurts. It hurts so much.

I was suddenly reminded of the kind of person I was: impure, used, a tool.

That was all I was, and maybe that was why it hurt so much.

What was I thinking? Wanting a man like this? What was I thinking?

“What…” Mr. Varkas stuttered, looking like he didn't know what to do with himself. “What are you saying, Sade? You’re dirty? Who said that?”

“It doesn't have to be said,” I said, wiping...