Page 86 of Running Winter

My father and I spoke in unison, and Raven glared at us both in turn.

"Sorry, I wasn't asking. Either I go on the date, or I don't ask next time. Even if this bumbling idiot has to come with me, I'm going."

Leigh didn't even flinch when Raven insulted him, and Dad studied them both.

"She's not going on a date with anyone,” I said bluntly, as Raven cut her eyes at me. "You're Raven Deacon, not the school bike."

"Excuse me, I'm the virgin, remember? You're the bike. Don't start this bullshit about you're a guy because I'll throw equality in your face, asshole."

"Rafe, Raven. Shut up. Raven, you aren't going. End of discussion.” Dad shrugged as Raven shook her head in disbelief.

"I'm the only prisoner alive with a fucking bodyguard and a warden for a father!" Raven spat before stomping off to her room.

"Teenagers," Dad muttered before waving me away.

I shrugged at Leigh, and he followed Raven up the stairs. I heard her door slam, and I felt a wave of sympathy for the guy. I wouldn't want to be my sister's keeper.

Ever.

JOKER

R A V E N

Was my Dad losing the fucking plot?

A bodyguard?

I stormed into my Nana and Pops's house, letting the door slam shut behind me.

"Raven! Hey baby. Your—"

"A fucking bodyguard!" I exhaled, sinking onto the sofa dramatically. "Dad is officially insane."

The door opened behind me, and Leigh hovered in the doorway.

"Are you the bodyguard? Leigh, isn't it?" Nanna broadly smiled as Leigh nodded silently.

"Well, come in. Make yourself at home. You're protecting precious cargo, and that is thirsty work. Lemonade?"

I was still pissed off, but Leigh made it easier by being so quiet. He mumbled thanks but turned to me.

"I'll be outside."

With that, Leigh turned and walked straight out of the front door. Nanna turned to me, fanning herself lightly.

"I see they're still making them as handsome as I remember."

"Hardly.” I snorted, folding my arms with a huff.

So what is my dumb-ass Dad thinking?

"Can I stay here tonight?"

Nanna nodded but then paused thoughtfully.

"Leigh will have to stay too. Your dad will have told him not to leave your side."

"Well, he can sleep on his bike. It amazes me that my Dad thinks it is safe for me to ride on the back of that thing, yet I can't go on a damn date!"

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