Page 190 of Broken Ties (Rixon High 4)

“Okay, Bennet, put my daughter down,” he barked. “And let’s eat.”

A secretive smirk tugged at my lips as we all sat down.

If only he knew I’d already eaten.

Poppy

“I can’t believe you’re coming to West Chester with me.”

“Believe it, Poppy Star.” He squeezed my hand as we walked downtown. We were meeting everyone at Bell’s to celebrate Aaron’s news.

“Are you sure you don’t want to try and—”

“Do I need to show you again how much I want this? You. West Chester.” He pulled me closer, dropping his mouth to my ear. “Because I will happily—”

“Aaron, stop.” My lips pressed into a thin smile. “We told everyone we’d meet them. Besides, Eli is bringing Leo to meet us.”

“And is Leo joining us as Eli’s friend or his… friend friend?”

“They’re taking things slow. So please don’t say anything.” I jabbed him in the stomach.

“Who, me? I wouldn’t dream of it.”

“Aaron…”

“I really don’t think it’s me you need to worry about, Poppy Star.”

“What do you— Sofia.” A heavy sigh rolled through me. “Did she say something to you? Because she told me she was cool with it.”

“I’m joking. I’m sure she’ll behave herself.”

“She’d better, because I want tonight to be drama free.”

I’d had enough drama to last me a lifetime.

Aaron opened the door to Bell’s and I slipped inside. Our friends spotted us almost immediately.

“Go,” he said, pressing his hand to my lower back. “I’ll get our drinks.” Dropping a kiss on my head, Aaron headed for the bar while I joined Sofia, Ashleigh, and the guys.

“So… how’d it go?” Sofia wiggled her brows.

“I think Aaron should be the one to tell you.”

“Sounds… ominous.”

“Eli isn’t here yet?” I asked, and Sofia rolled her eyes.

“I can’t believe you invited him.”

“Actually, it was Aaron’s idea. The two of them have struck up a weird friendship.”

“Hannigan is good people,” Ezra said.

“Yeah, but he’s bringing Leo.”

“Leo is—”

“Standing right here.”

---