Page 87 of Hold On Me

My eyes shoot open, I sit upright and declare I need the bathroom, and I hop off Ben’s lap, leaving the room quickly. I don’t need my brothers to see me on the edge of an orgasm.

Once I’ve calmed myself down, splashed some cold water on my face, I emerge and face everyone again with narrowed eyes, challenging them to say anything to me. None of them do and I take my seat on the other side of Ben, making sure we have a little room to breathe. But he has other ideas and scoots closer to me, our thighs pressed against each other and his hand landing on the back of the sofa behind me. I roll my eyes but relax into the familiar feel of having him near.

“They were just talking about the Spartans’ chances in the playoffs.” Angie buries herself into Jenson’s side and he kisses the top of her head.

“Next year we’ll get there. This year I don’t think we’ll make it.”

Jenson stretches his legs out as he speaks and I take a second to appreciate my brother’s maturity. But just for a second, because he grabs his phone and laughs obnoxiously at whatever he sees, ruining the moment. “Check this out. I posted a picture of those two all hot and heavy to the Brady group chat, told them what he did, and Mama is having a field day.”

“You did what?” I snatch my phone off the coffee table and see the messages flying in. “Jenson, you’re such a dillhole.” Another pillow gets thrown, and Angie ducks out of the way as I try to do damage control thanks to stupid Jenson Brady.

43

THE BRADY FAMILY - TEXTS

Mama

Oh I knew you two would be like love’s young dream. I hope you’re not gonna keep me waiting for a wedding like my other children.

Pops

Now, baby, go easy. This is a new relationship.

Mama

Hush. They’ve been walking around each other for years.

Jenson

They have, Mama. And they look mighty loved up to me. You saw the picture.

Penny

I’m gonna hurt you. You remember all those self defence classes my dad made me do. I’m gonna inflict so much pain.

Mama

Now, now Penny. You have to wait till the season’s over first.

Jenson

Mama!

Mama

You know I love you, but I loved the Spartans first.

Penny

Deal, Mama. I’ll wait and do this with your blessing.

Pops

You’re in for it now. I still remember what that boy looked like who tried to kiss her and wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Penny

Jimmy Newham? I think I made him prettier.

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