Page 97 of Griffin

So why punch him?!

“I want the best for you, baby.” Dad yawns, dropping his head into his hands. “Griffin has a daughter. He’ll want the best for her, too. I don’t want love clouding your vision of what you can achieve, that’s all.”

“Would you rather I move to the city on my own?”

Dad shrugs.

“That’s up to you, but I want you to know you have options. You don’t need to spend your entire life in this town, Ivy. You’re amazing.”

My heart skips a beat when he reaches for my hand, bringing it to his lips.

“I’m your dad, baby. I have to be your mom too, and I know she’d want you to be happy. That’s all parents ever want. But make sure you know your worth, alright?”

A lump forms in my throat as I nod.

“I want to be with Griffin and Melody. Griffin said he’d move to the big city if that’s what I want.”

Dad threw his head back, laughing.

“Did he? He hates the fucking city.”

I smile, turning to gaze out of the window.

I want to ask him about Shelby, but I can’t.

It feels like it’s none of my business, which I suppose it isn’t.

“Maybe you should, you know.” Dad nods thoughtfully. “Try it. You might love it. Rent somewhere for a year, see if it’s where you want to be.”

I consider his words when he pulls me into a bear hug, holding me tight as he kisses my head.

“You’ve got my blessing to do whatever you like; you’re grown. You’re clever and beautiful. So just make sure you reach for the stars, alright?”

Dad chokes up, and tears leave my eyes too.

The lump in my throat gives way to a sob that makes my dad hold me tighter.

“I know what you’re thinking about me and your friend,” Dad mutters, stroking my hair. “But on your life, Ivy, I’ve not touched her. At all.”

I pull away, stroking his hand with mine.

“I don’t care what you’ve done, Dad. It’s your life.”

Dad stares at me, a flush creeping up his neck as he shrugs.

“She’s a little young for me, and uh, your friend, so ….”

I arch a brow at him.

“And?”

Dad makes a face.

“I’m not a dirty old man, Ivy.”

“Nor is Griffin,” I shoot back, enjoying his awkwardness. “Shelby is desirable, Dad, jeez. So many guys like her, but you know, I think someone else has had her attention this whole time.”

Dad nods, clearing his throat.

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