Page 183 of Unravelling The Beast

"Arlo Hayes."

He responds with a modest nod.

“Philip Edwardz.”

I can't quite figure him out as he looks into my eyes intensely, his vibe sending me all kinds of signals as I shake his hand.

Wren clears her throat, clearly sensing the tension, and Phillip finally lets go of my hand as she speaks.

"So, what brings you here, Dad?"

As he responds, he glances down at her with a faint smile.

"Well, I was driving by on my way home and thought I'd see if you were home because your mom said you were on vacation and might be here."

She nods slightly.

"I was just coming back to get my belongings.Do you want to come in?"

He smiles and gives a little head shake.

"I'd better get going, but it was nice to see you."

He's a touch taller than me, with broader shoulders, yet he has the typical appearance of an older man. When he stands a little taller and looks between us both.

"Perhaps you and Arlo could join us for dinner at our house some time?"

My focus is drawn to Wren, who appears stunned as she speaks.

"What?"

Before responding to her, he gives her a small smile.

"I'm not stupid, Wren. I know you're dating, and I'd like to get to know the man who caught your attention."

She glances at me for approval, and to be honest, I'm not into the whole family bullshit; it's not my favorite thing to do, but I'll do it for her.

I give her a slight nod, and she returns her attention to her father, who is still waiting for a response.

"Okay, sure! Just let us know in advance, and we'll be there."

He gives a slight nod, and Wren's expression changes as she asks softly.

"I want to ask you something before you go. What happened the other night? Lil told me you had intruders."

My attention instantly shifts to him, and he inhales deeply before shoving his hands into the pants pockets.

"I suppose they wanted money, and I did what I had to do to protect your mother and Lily, because that's what it's all about: protecting what's ours."

Before he continues, he quickly turns his attention to me.

"Isn't that right, Arlo?"

I observe him suspiciously before giving him a small, silent nod, and he returns his attention to Wren, kissing her on the cheek.

"I'll see you soon and will be in touch."

He backs up before turning around and returning to his car, shouting back.

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