Page 7 of You're To Blame 2

“I told them I had to spend time with my girlfriend.” He sank into the sofa beside me.

The kids sat on the floor, staring at the seventy-five-inch screen TV. They argued over what they’d build next on the game. I laughed. My family was my comfort zone.

Mason’s arm slipped over my shoulder. “I heard a rumor about Veronica yesterday. You have any idea who could have started that rumor?”

I stared at the TV arms folded. “Nope.”

His nose nuzzled my hair behind my ear. “I have needs, Chelsea.”

My blood coursed through my veins. I wanted to sock him in his mouth.Asshole.

“You’ve managed all this time with Marisa,” I whispered.

“Yeah, but I’d like to test drive something different.”

Ugh!I bit my lip.

“After we’re married, it’s just me and you, baby.”

“Marriage,” Dad growled from behind.

We sat up straight, peering over our shoulders. My heart raced. Of course, I knew Tate was the man I wanted to marry, but not now. We discussed our future briefly. Our goal was to focus on our passions and worry about marriage down the line.

“Mr. Culver, sorry you had to hear about Chelsea and I tying the knot casually. I assure you I planned to ask for your daughter’s hand in marriage the correct way.”

Dad’s gray eyes narrowed. “Don’t you think you two are a little young to discuss marriage?”

Dad sat in the chair beside us.

“No. She was the only girl I ever had any intention of being with for the rest of my life. Why wait? She’s the love of my life.” His eyes darted over at me. “I’ve loved, Chelsea since we were kids.”

The reminder was very clear. ‘She’ll never be yours.’ He planned to keep his word. My dad’s nosiness may have just escalated my marriage to Mason.

“Tate, you are excited to have her in your life all the time?”

Mason squeezed my hand as he stared at my dad.

“You have no idea, sir. I won’t waiver from my decision to marry your daughter.”

Dad’s eyes narrowed between us.

“Chelsea, is this what you want?”

Swallowing was next to impossible. I felt like cotton balls were lodged in my throat. I nodded. “Yes, Dad. I love Tate.”

Not sure if my shaky voice was so convincing.Chelsea, hold on. You can do this.Maybe escalating the process would give you access to Tate sooner than later.

I snaked my arm around Mason’s. “He’s the love of my life. I can’t wait to become his wife.”

Keep the tears at bay, Chelsea. Instead, think of revenge.My face brightened.

Dad stood and Mason followed. “I’ll have a talk with my wife and your parents.” He extended his hand.

“You have my blessing. We’ll see if we have everyone else’s.”

Mason grinned from ear-to-ear. “Thank you, Mr. Culver.”

“You’re welcome.” He smiled.

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