Page 95 of Breakout
“If you don’t see how much that man wants you, you need to get your eyes checked,” Cora mutters.
“I’ll book the appointment for you myself,” Grace says.
“You know what, maybe you’re right. Maybe it’s time I see where this goes,” I tell them as I watch Beckett approach.
“Ladies,” he says as he comes to a stop in front of us.
“Are you guys going to keep gossiping, or are you going to start the next game?” Clay says as he rubs his hands together.
“You’re so on,” Grace says as she stands up.
“Girls against boys?” Cora says as she gets up.
“Oh, like there’s any other way,” Grace says as the three of them move away.
Beckett takes a step closer and lowers his voice. “Are you good?”
I stand up, and when my body brushes against his, he reaches out and squeezes my hip, sending a bolt of desire rushing through me. God, I’m such a whore for his touch.
“I’m good.”
I don’t know who I surprise more by leaning in and hugging him, but it’s worth his reaction when I pull away.
Yeah, I’m good as long as I have him.
There’s only so many times I can ignore his calls and texts before my father steps in and throws his weight around to remind me that he’s the one in charge, and that’s the last thing I need right now. I know I told Peyton that I would tell my father we were married, and I will, but not until she’s agreed that this is real. I need her to be willing to weather the storm for the long term and not fear him running her off.
If only she could be here with me now.
I get out of the car and hand my keys to the valet before making my way inside.
“Welcome, Mr. Hayes, your father is waiting,” the hostess says.
I follow her back, and as soon as my father comes into view, I bite back a groan. Of course he’s not alone. That would be asking for too much.
“Dad,” I say, not even bothering to hide the annoyance in my voice.
“You’re late,” he says as he stands.
“Traffic,” I lie.
He turns and holds out his hand. The woman next to him places her hand in his and stands.
“Beckett, I’m sure you remember Penny.”
Of course I do. She’s the daughter of one of his business associates who happens to be a year older than I am. He also tried to set me up with her not that long ago. At least this time her family and my mother aren’t here to witness the shit show.
This is a setup.
I dip my chin toward her. “Nice to see you again.”
“Thank you for inviting me,” she murmurs.
Last I checked, I wasn’t the one who extended the invitation, but I don’t need to point that out.
We all sit down, and my father turns toward me. “How are your studies going?”
“Well,” I say, knowing he gets a weekly update like I’m still in elementary school.
