Page 166 of Silver Fox Puck

The weight of something pressing down on him—something bigger than just us. And I understand exactly what’s at stake.

Olivia.

This isn’t just about some petty ex. It’s about his daughter. And Lauren knows it.

“She’s really doing this,” I murmur.

Grant’s hands ball into fists.

“She’s always played games,” he mutters. “But this is different.”

I exhale slowly, reaching for his wrist.

When my fingers brush his skin, he finally meets my gaze.

And what I see?

It’s not just anger.

It’s fear.

A man who’s already lost too much—who’s suddenly terrified he might lose again.

I tighten my grip.

“We’re not letting her win,” I say, voice firm.

Grant lets out a breath, but it’s not steady.

“I should’ve seen this coming,” he mutters. “I should’ve prepared—”

I cut him off.

“No,” I say, shaking my head. “You’re not doing that.”

Grant blinks. “Doing what?”

I hold his gaze.

“Blaming yourself for someone else’s bullshit.”

His throat bobs.

But I’m not done.

“Lauren is doing this because she’s bitter. Because she doesn’t want you happy. And because she knows exactly what buttons to push.”

I pause, take a breath.

“But she doesn’t get to win. Not this time.”

Grant stares at me for a long moment. Then, finally, he exhales. Some of the tension leaves his shoulders.

Not all.

But enough.

Then, he cups the back of my neck, tugging me forward, resting his forehead against mine.

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