Page 75 of Griffin

But the smile that tugs on the corners of my mouth tells Shelby she’s right, and before she says anything, I’m pleading with her not to tell a soul.

“You’re fucking him?” Shelby screeches, gripping my arm from across the table. “Oh my fuckinggod, oh my fucking god!”

My heart hammers in my chest.

“Shelby, this is serious. I’m serious. You can’t tell a soul,” I hiss across the table, my eyes boring into hers.

Shelby repeatedly nods, licking her lips.

“You have to tell me everything for my silence.”

I close my eyes, pinching the bridge of my nose as Shelby continues.

“The sexual tension between you guys is beyond obvious, by the way.”

I cringe.

Did my dad notice? Oh, God.

“He’s my dad’s best friend, Shelby; you can’t say anything.”

Shelby eyes me over her drink, shaking her head.

“I won’t; cross my heart. But itisobvious, Ivy … ” Her words fade as Finlay and his friends show up, holding a tray of shots.

Shelby shoots me a look, and I groan inwardly. What a moment for them to fucking join us. Shelby is bouncing with excitement, unanswered questions making her lips quiver.

I shake my head subtly.

Not now.

Finlay drags a stool to the table, grinning at me as he holds out a shot.

“After you.”

24

GRIFFIN

The soft knock at the door doesn’t sound like Ivy.

Plus, Ivy usually walks straight in. I love that.

Melody has only been in bed an hour, so I know Ivy can’t be knocking at my door. Not unless something has happened …

I tense up, striding for the door.

My heart is in my mouth when I pull the door open, revealing Christina.

Her mouth widens into a grin as she holds up a bottle of wine. She looks good — she’s made an effort.

Great.

“Hey.” Christina’s eyes dart around me like she’s checking I’m alone. “I saw Ivy in town, so I thought you might want some company.”

Oh.

“You did?” I don’t move to let her in; instead, I raise an eyebrow at her. “Why?”

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