Page 112 of Daddy Sees Snakes

I shake my head.

The last thing I need is to go there right now.

I need a distraction before my imagination runs too wild.

Rummaging through my purse, I pull out a sketchbook and start doodling tattoo concepts—flowers sprouting from pistols, a mermaid with a skeletal tail.

Drawing always calms my racing mind.

"An artist at work," a deep, gravelly voice startles me.

Viper leans against the doorframe, muscular arms crossed over his chest.

His black t-shirt stretches taut over his biceps.

My cheeks flush at being caught. "I need something to keep me occupied." I snap the sketchbook shut.

He pushes off the doorframe and stalks closer, his presence dominating the room. "Yes, well, it’s good to be bettering your craft. Have you given any thought to when you’ll open Ashton Studios?"

How can he even ask me that right now?

I grumble, “Not sure—especially since I’m so busy with other duties.”

"Allegra needs a friend right now," Viper states, an edge to his tone. "Don't go putting any crazy ideas in her head."

I bristle at the insinuation. "Crazy ideas? Like encouraging her to have a life outside of this gilded cage?"

His jaw clenches. "Watch it. You don't know shit about our family."

Oh, I'm just getting started.

I stand up, squaring my shoulders. "I know Allegra is miserable. And I know she deserves happiness and freedom. She’s not a puppy you can keep on a leash, Viper."

Viper takes an imposing step closer, his face inches from mine.

I can feel the heat rolling off his body. "She tell you that? Maybe you should mind your own damn business, Iris."

My nails dig into my palms.

The audacity of this man! "She's my best friend. Her business is my business, Viper. Someone needs to be in her corner."

"And you think that's you?" he growls.

I tilt my chin up defiantly. "Damn right it is."

The air crackles between us, the tension pulls taut.

Will he lash out in anger or pull me into a bruising kiss?

I almost want him to.

Almost.

Right at that charged moment, Allegra bursts back into the room, arms overflowing with chips and candy. "I come bearing snacks! Uh, what did I miss?"

She looks between us warily.

Viper drags a hand down his face and lets out a harsh exhale. "Nothing. You two... do whatever." He storms out without a backward glance.

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