Page 130 of A Little Secret

“Yes, Griffin’s handling everything…way better than any other guy in the world,” I answer.

“Figured as much,” my dad replies. “If he wasn’t, Everett would put him in the ground.”

“Which is a very healthy response, by the way,” I quip.

“He loves you,” my dad argues.

With a sigh, I admit, “I know he does. And it’s a good thing I love him back because he’s definitely thrown a wrench in my love life. Did you know he told Griffin to stay away from me when we were younger?”

“That surprises you?” My mom laughs. “The boy’s beenoverbearing and overprotective since before you could walk, Sweet Pea. You really think he was going to be okay with his best friend dating you? No offense, but we both know if push came to shove, your brother would pick you over anyone, and I mean anyone.” She hesitates. “Okay, before Raine, he’d pick you over anyone else.”

“Ouch,” I say with a laugh.

“Don’t worry. It’s the beauty of true love. He’ll never have to, but you get my point.”

“I guess,” I say, my voice tainted with disbelief. “Although, you didn’t have to make it sting so much. My own flesh and blood choosing their girlfriend over someone as awesome as me? Rude.”

“Whatever,” my mom returns, not even the tiniest bit phased by my sarcasm. Bless her soul. “The good news is, Everett knows Griffin would never hurt you.”

“And we know it, too. Although you could’ve told us,” my dad chimes in.

“So, you’re okay with it?” I prod. “Me dating your friends’ son?”

“Honey, we’ve been rooting for you two for a very long time,” my dad clarifies.

“Thanks,” I murmur. “I, uh, I should get going, though.”

“No worries,” my dad replies. “We just called to catch up and say we love you.”

“Love you, too,” I answer.

“And congratulations!” my mom adds. “We’re so excited it’s not even funny.”

With a smile, I sigh. “You have no idea how good it is to hear you say so. I’ll talk to you later.”

“Bye, babe!”

“See you.”

As I hang up the call, a text appears.

Griffin:

Not to sound creepy and shit, but I can hear you through the wall.

Seriously?

“Tell me you’re joking,” I call.

My phone buzzes.

Griffin

Not joking.

Another text follows right after.

Griffin