Page 58 of The Secret Heir Next Door

Dee’s smile falters, and she shoots a glance at her mother, who is standing a few feet away, arms crossed. “Abby, it’s time to clean up, okay? Aunt Serena will be right here when you’re done.”

Abby’s bottom lip quivers, but she reluctantly nods and lets Dee lead her away. I watch them go, my heart heavy. I know what’s coming next.

Logan’s mother strides over, her expression pinched. “I don’t know what you think you’re doing, Serena, but this needs to stop. You’re filling that child’s head with ridiculousness.”

“I don’t know what you mean. Also, it doesn’t matter if you have a problem with me. Abby’s party is not the place to make a scene.”

“You’re the only person making a scene.”

“If you’ll excuse me, there are gift bags that need to go out.”

“You will stay away from my son,” she hisses icily. “He’s engaged to…”

“I’m engaged to Serena,” I hear Logan say from behind me as he wraps his arms around me.

Say what?

I didn’t hear him right, did I?

12

LOGAN

I’m not sure what words just came out of my mouth, but the look on my mom’s face makes it all worth it.

It feels right, regardless.

Those words feel right.

“You’re not serious,” my mother spits. “Have you lost your damn mind?”

“No, not at all. I’ve never been more certain of anything before in my life.”

“Logan,” Serena says softly.

“I will not allow you to disrespect her. Who causes a scene at their granddaughter’s birthday party anyway?”

“Logan,” Mom growls. “I forbid you to marry her. You’re already engaged to Nikki Westerheide. You know this.”

“I haven’t proposed to anyone except for Serena, and she accepted. Nikki Westerheide is some sick and twisted arranged marriage that you guys planned with her parents.”

“She’s perfect for you. She’s got a good pedigree and…”

“She’s not a damn dog. Besides, I’m certain that you invited her to this party, and she couldn’t even show up.”

“That’s because Abby threw chocolate milk at her the last time she was here.”

“If Abby doesn’t like someone, there’s a reason.”

“She is four. She doesn’t like anyone.”

“She loves Serena.”

“She’s four.”

“Don’t disrespect my fiancé again,” I tell her as I link my hand with Serena’s and lead her off.

“What in the hell was that?” she asks.

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