Page 111 of Daddy Sees Snakes

With a deep breath, I crank up the radio and peel out of the parking lot, heading towards the billowing storm on the horizon that is Viper and Allegra’s home.

Flurries of snow fall down on my sleek red Miata as I carefully drive down the snow lined streets toward Viper and Allegra’s.

My Miata isn’t exactly the best in the snow, but so far, so good.

Allegra's desperate text from earlier still echoes in my mind:

I need you, I can't stand being in this fucking house right now

My stomach twists with concern for my best friend.

What the hell is going on over there?

I pull up to the sprawling log home, all rustic charm while oozing money.

Before I can even knock, the door swings open.

And there he is—Viper.

Those piercing blue eyes lock onto mine, making my breath catch.

Damn him and his brooding, dangerous aura.

He doesn't say a word, just turns and stalks away, leaving me standing there flustered.

God, what's his fucking problem?

"Iris! Thank God you're here," Allegra cries out, bounding down the sweeping staircase to envelop me in a fierce hug.

Her wild red curls tickle my cheek.

"Hey, I came as soon as I could. What's up?" I ask, searching her face.

Stress lines cover her usually vibrant features.

She glances around furtively before whispering, "I can't take it anymore, Iris. This house, my dad, everything. It's suffocating me. I came here for a good holiday break and look what’s happening."

I rub soothing circles on her back. "I'm here for you, babe. Why don't we go up to your room and you can vent to me about it?"

Allegra nods gratefully and links her arm through mine as we ascend the stairs.

I can feel Viper's intense gaze burning into my back with each step.

The tension radiating off him is palpable.

We settle cross-legged on Allegra's plush king bed, surrounded by her eclectic decor—band posters, crystal collections, stacks of poetry books.

She sighs heavily. "I love my dad, I do. But ever since he got out of prison, he's been so overbearing and controlling," she confesses, fidgeting with an amethyst pendant. "I'm 18. I’m not a child anymore. I need freedom."

"I totally get it," I reassure her. "He missed out on seeing you grow up, so he probably doesn't know how to deal. Have you tried talking to him about giving you some space?"

Allegra scoffs. "You've met my father. Talking isn't really his strong suit. It's his way or no way."

An idea sparks. "Why don't we have a chill girls' day here then? Face masks, trash TV, junk food—take your mind off things for a bit. I already brought some wine and some snacks, but it’s just chocolate and chips."

Her blue eyes light up. "Ooh yes! Dad can just deal. I'll go grab more snacks from the kitchen. Be right back!" She bounds out of the room.

And now I'm alone with my thoughts...and memories of Viper pressed against me, his skilled tattooed hands roaming my body.

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