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“Dean hates me”

“Use reverse psychology Tell hiht”

“I’ll consider that” Her fingers brush s her hands to her side “But what if he starts stripping?”

“Not sure there’s any way to prevent that” I scan the room for my brother, but he’s not inhim”

“True” Her eyes linger on aze, but it’s not an invitation It’s soood to see you happy”

“Thanks” I finish irl”

Her smile is soft “Don’t let her mess it up”

If only I had any fucking control over that

My shoulders relax as Penny turns and walks away It’s easier talking to her, but it still steals the warmth in the room

I replace it with bourbon

Leighton isn’t in the living room—her purple hair makes her easy to find I check the hallway The bathroom The kitchen

There

She’s sitting at the dining table, dipping carrots into hu to whatever Penny’s best friend Kristen is saying

Kristen’s dark eyes light up when she sees hton Froossip about me

“There you are, baby” Itable with confident steps “I’ve been looking everywhere”