Page 34 of Exes and Oh Hell No

Sitting in the chair like she’s a mafia queen is Leona Brooks.

And right next to her, sprawled on the couch like he lives here, is Connor freaking Byrns.

Oh. My. Fucking. God.

This is going to be pure torture.

No way.

I can’t do this.

Panic fills me with a desperate urge to escape, but Ford tightens his grip, locking me in place.

Not only can Inotescape, but now I’m spiraling because his body is all heat, strength, and dangerous comfort.

Meanwhile, Connor folds his arms behind his head, completely unbothered, and says, “Gram called. Said you were about to go ballistic because something happened to Harper.”

Ford snorts but doesn’t say anything.

Connor props his feet up on the coffee table, his voice casual. “Figured I’d stop by and give moral support.”

Ford growls beside me, the sound vibrating against my chest.

Connor smirks, completely unfazed. “Or, you know, eat popcorn and watch the show. Dramas are my favorite.”

“Jesus Christ,” Ford grumbles.

Gram clicks her tongue, glaring at Ford. “Haven’t I told you not to take the Lord’s name in vain?”

“Sorry, Gram,” Ford murmurs.

Her sharp gaze moves from him to me.

I immediately freeze, my pulse skittering beneath my skin.

Oh, God.

Here comes the humiliation.

“Well, well, well. If it isn’t my favorite ex-granddaughter-in-law-to-be,” she drawls, her voice laced with way too much satisfaction. “Back in my house, wrapped around my grandson. What a coincidence.”

A strangled whimper escapes me.

Oh, God, I’m dying.

Meanwhile, Connor fucking lights up. “Oh, shit.” He leans forward, rubbing his hands together in pure delight. “This is getting good. But hold up, Gram. I need to go grab the popcorn.”

Ford’s tone is murderous. “Connor, I swear to God?—”

Connor grins and points to Gram. “You better watch it, man. You keep swearing at the Lord, she’s gonna be the one smiting your ass.” He winks at Gram, then stands and strolls toward the kitchen. “Be right back.”

I’m mortified.

Meanwhile, Gram just smiles sweetly. “Nice to see you again, Harper.”

My voice barely comes out of my dry mouth. “G-Good to see y-you.”

Ford grumbles something unintelligible before whispering, “Come on. Let’s sit down.”

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