Page 86 of Unmasked

She melts against me. “You’re the sweetest.”

“And you’re the most beautiful woman, inside and out, that I’ve ever seen.” I kiss her hand. “Let’s go torment your parents. I can’t wait to claim you in front of everyone at the party.”

CHAPTER 56

Mallory

I’m clinging to Stryker’s hand, my palm sweating as my bravado fades.

My mom is going to be pissed as hell, and I know I’m going to pay for this stunt later.

Thank goodness they can’t revoke my tuition and fees. It’s too late in the semester for a refund.

Stryker squeezes my hand. “It’s okay, baby. I’m right here, shoulder to shoulder with you. They can’t hurt you.”

I smile up at him, my anxiety lessening. “You’re right. I’m an adult. If they revoke my tuition next semester, I’ll find another way to pay for it.”

Stryker clears his throat, looking at me from beneath lowered brows.

“I hate the thought of taking money from you.”

“Even if you’re my wife?”

“You’re serious, aren’t you?”

“As a heart attack.”

“Mallory Ward,” I muse aloud. “It sounds natural. Even better than my current last name.”

“It’s fate. We’re meant to be.” He squeezes my hand, nodding at my parent’s front door. “You ready?”

“Let’s do this.”

Edward hasa shit-eating grin on his face when he opens the door. “Good evening, Miss Mallory and Mr. Stryker.” He winks at us, his voice a whisper. “That was the most entertainment I’ve had in a decade. I can’t wait to see the fireworks tonight.”

Then he adopts his usual somber look, but his eyes twinkle with mischief as he gestures. “Please, come inside.”

“Thank you, Edward.” I kiss his cheek and whisper, “Brace yourself.”

Stryker heartily shakes Edward’s hand. “I’m not letting these fuckers off the hook for the way they treated my woman.”

I hear Edward say, “I like you, Stryker. You’re good for Miss Mallory. I’ve never seen her so happy.”

My parents stand a few feet away, scowling at us.

As we approach them, I cling to Stryker’s hand, my shoulders back and my spine straight. “Hello, mother. Father.”

My mom looks me up and down. “What are you wearing?” she hisses.

“She looks stunning, doesn’t she?” Stryker twirls me around, giving my mom the full effect.

“No, she looks like a cheap tramp.”

“Danelle,” my father admonishes. He gives me a disapproving look. “Why don’t you go to your room and change into the dress your mother bought for you?”

I release Stryker’s hand, my hands moving to my hips. “No.” Defiance flashes in my eyes. “I love thisdress, and Stryker does too. It’smybirthday celebration, and I’m an adult who can wear whatever the hell I want.”

My father scowls at me before his expression transforms into his usual smile. “We’ll discuss this later. The guests are arriving.” He levels Stryker and me with a look. “I expect the two of you to be on your best behavior.”

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