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I glance at Violet, who narrows her eyes to a grinning Ridge as he sits next to her. Hmm, there are other seats available, but he chose the one next to my girlfriend.

"I'm not always going to be jailbait. In fact, I turn eighteen in three weeks and four days. You won't know what to do with me then!"

My lips twitch in amusement and I desperately try not to laugh.

Ridge mutters. "That's what you think... The first thing I'd do is put you over my knee."

"Cake!" Maggie says louder than necessary, shooting a warning glare at Ridge. He smirks and takes a piece, munching on it. His eyes go back to Violet.

My friend takes a piece and scowls at Ridge. "What color panties should I wear while you spank me?"

Ridge chokes on a bite of cake while Essex and Atilio howl with laughter. I join in, noticing that Maggie’s mouth is twitching with amusement. How Violet keeps her face straight, I'll never know.

After getting himself under control, Ridge cups Violet's chin, brings her closer to his face and says, "Babe, I'd prefer no panties." He saunters out of the kitchen.

"That can be arranged," Violet shouts at his retreating back. She waves her hands in front of her face. "Is it me or is it warm in here?

I giggle. "It's all you."

Violet winks and takes a bite of cake. "Mmm, this is really good, Mrs. Redd."

"Maggie, please. Any girl who gets to one of my sons has to be on a first name basis with me."

I meet Violet's eyes and shake my head. Her eyes are bright with joy. She also looks flushed. My friend enjoyed teasing Ridge.

21

BEATRICE

"Wait!Bea! Can we talk for a minute?" Atilio says as we reach the boat.

Essex's hand tightens around my waist before he lets go.

“Oh! Did I miss something?" Violet asks.

"Jailbait, mind your own business." Ridge tosses her over his shoulder.

"I'm wearing navy blue panties if you want to look."

Ridge stumbles a step and slaps my friend's butt. "Shut your filthy mouth."

She lifts her eyes to me and winks.

I shake my head and turn to Atilio. "We can talk while Essex goes and saves Ridge."

Essex laughs. "You owe me one, Mermaid Girl."

I hug Atilio and whisper, "I'm sorry..."

"Hey, I wanted to tell you we're fine. I'm glad you're with Essex. He's a good man."

I sigh. "Thank you for saying that. I was feeling guilty, but Essex... well, you know."

"He's got you." He gives me a sincere smile. "If you need help with anything, let me know, okay? You're part of the Redd family now. We take care of our own."

I lean into his arms for a longer hug. "Thank you!"

He chuckles. "You better go tell my younger brother to stop shooting daggers in my direction."

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