Page 127 of Score on You

“Outside.” She points over her shoulder as if I didn’t just watch her step inside.

My gaze wanders to our other three unexpected guests. “But why are you here?”

“Oh!” She laughs, but it’s strained. “Don’t be upset, okay?”

My pulse quickens while Ridge turns to stone beside me. “What did you do?”

Harper fidgets before gripping onto the handle. “Um… well, maybe it’s better if I show you.”

I creep forward until the backyard is in view. My eyes bulge at the unpredictable sight.

Tables and chairs are arranged in a socially receptive formation. Bright pink decorations fight against the natural scenery. Clumps of balloons sway in the breeze as if greeting us. Upon closer inspection, a few appear to have a phallic shape. My blush reignites until I’m sure the clouds can tag me as scandalized.

Our friends are spread across the grass in clumps of two or three. My visual sweep pauses on Drake and a woman I don’t recognize. They seem to be caught in a heated moment, which encourages my focus to move along. Under the shade of our large oak tree sits my mother and an older couple. An undeniable longing pushes me to move in that direction.

“Surprise!” A loud bellow erupts from right behind me.

My soul vacates my body for a second as I jolt. Ridge looks ready to punch his youngest brother. I grab his clenched hand, prying his fingers open to weave through mine.

Soren’s announcement has the desired effect on everyone else. They turn in a unified pivot to where we’re standing on the deck. Applause and cheers boom from our suddenly captivated audience. Harper is bouncing on her toes, clearly pleased with the end result.

My friend hops next to me and gives my shoulder a gentle nudge. “Go on. Enjoy your engagement party.”

“Our what?” The slice of Ridge’s tone could sever the head from a statue.

She rolls her eyes. “Oh, hush. It’s just a small gathering. The invite list almost got away from me. I had to remind myselfthat you two aren’t fans of crowds. Jake was convinced this would backfire. It totally makes me want to throw him a huge extravaganza.”

“Ridiculous,” Ridge mutters.

“That’s exactly what Jerky Jake said. Twinning,” she chirps.

“It’s not so bad.” I bump Ridge with my hip.

The thunder fades from his expression when he smirks down at me. “Are you happy?”

A giddy tingle spreads through me. “I think your parents are over there talking to my mother.”

His gaze doesn’t shift from mine to confirm my suspicion. “They wouldn’t miss the occasion.”

“It’s very special,” I breathe.

“Hold off on the compliments until you get a load of Abbie’s swag.” Harper rolls her lips between her teeth.

I catch sight of Grace’s friend straight ahead. She’s pointing to a stack of metal tins that are neatly organized on a table. Garrett is visibly laughing at the colorful contents that he’s holding in his hand. After a shrug, he dumps several pieces in his mouth.

Grace shakes her head, trying and failing to hide a smile. She motions to the little girl standing with her daddy near the fence. Sydney appears preoccupied, but my curiosity is piqued.

Ridge remains glued to my side as I approach them. Once again, shock widens my eyes as I discover what they’re arguing about. My earlier concern about the balloons was warranted.

“Hi!” Abbie doesn’t hesitate to hug me, but makes no attempt to touch Ridge. “Congratulations. I’m responsible for providing the risqué items.”

Grace snorts and points at what appears to be candy. “That’s one way of describing these.”

“Every party needs a theme. I took the honor of deciding this one.” Abbie taps a label while pride stretches her grin. “Same pecker forever. It fits with the cock den.”

Ridge nods. “I don’t see a problem.”

“They’re not bad.” Garrett shakes the box that’s filled with tiny dicks. “Wanna try? They’re sugarcoated for your pleasure.”

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