Page 14 of Griffin

“I can help.”

Melody looks at her with such girlish, excited hope, that I feel pissed Ivy didn’t think to speak to me first.

I’m stretched financially, and Ivy will expect payment for her services.

“It’s okay, but thanks,” I interrupt as Ivy frowns.

“What? Don’t be silly. I’m up early every day. So it’s really no bother.”

I swallow as Melody moves her gaze to me, ramming more pasta into her mouth.

“Uh, I don’t think … ”

But Ivy taps her chin thoughtfully.

“I could help, Griffin; it’s no bother. I can be here whenever you need to get to work, and I can take Melody to school so she doesn’t have to go to childcare.”

Melody nods eagerly, and I turn my attention to Ivy.

God. She’s looking at me with those sky-blue eyes, the ones I could lose myself in for days and not remember my name.

Fuck. Get a grip. She’s too young for you, way too young. Plus, she’s Kevin’s kid.

I mentally shake myself before tilting my head at Ivy.

“You’d be able to do that?” I ask, clearing my throat.

Ivy nods, her lips lifting in the corners.

“Yes! It’s no problem.”

I eye her for a moment.

“What about work?”

Ivy shrugs.

“We’ll sort it.”

She glances meaningfully at Melody, and I lean back in my chair.

This will be such a help.

If Ivy doesn’t mind.

Or Kevin, shit.

Like she’s reading my mind Ivy puts her hand on my forearm, her fingers soft and warm.

“Please, Griffin. Let me help.”

“I’ll pay you.”

I tug my arm away, and she frowns, glancing at Melody with a reassuring smile.

Her touch feels wrong. I can’t explain it, but it does.

“Have a word with your dad, too,” I say, nodding at Ivy. “Make sure it’s okay.”

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