Page 60 of Scarred Sins

“I can tell,’’ I grin.

His humorous laughter turns into a nervous chuckle, and his eyes are wide, a timorous gaze lingering. He avoids looking at me like the plague, interested in the road ahead. My brows crease, eyes narrowing in suspicion.

“About that,’’ he chuckles. “There’s something I haven’t told you.’’

“Then, tell me.’’

He grimaces. “I can’t. I literally cannot find the words to say it, so it’s better if you see it for yourself.’’

“You’re making me anxious.’’

“No. No!” He tries to deflate the severity of the situation, but I’m not budging. My arms are folded in front of my chest, tapping my index finger against my forearm. With a raised brow, I wait for an explanation.

“It can be a good surprise, though it depends.’’

“Depends on what?”

He uses one hand to scratch the back of his head. “What do you consider a good surprise?”

“Something that makes me happy, fulfilled. or excited.’’

“Yeah, not a good surprise, then,’’ he groans. “We’re almost there, and let me apologize in advance for not telling you. I completely forgot about it until you asked about my parents; please, believe me.’’

“Arlo, whatever-your-last-name-is,’’ I hissed. “Tell me right this instant or I’ll jump out of the car.’’

“The lock is childproof, so good luck there. And my last name is De Santis.’’

“Of course,’’ I snorted. “Even your last name is hot.’’

The tips of his ears turn pink. “You find me hot?”

My mouth drops open at the realization of my words. I forgot to think before speaking and to filter my words, so it slipped out. My neck heats up, the tips of my fingers as cold as ice.

“No,’’ I lie, my voice squeaking.

“It’s okay to admit it, butterfly. Most women find me attractive.’’

I scowl at the thought of him ever being with another woman. It pisses me off more than I’m willing to admit.

“Well, I just happen to find you very ugly.’’

Arlo pulls up into a gigantic driveway, turns off the engine, and shifts in his seat, looking at me while pouting.

“Words hurt, you know.’’

I roll my eyes. “You and your ego will survive.’’

He chuckles. “Are you ready?”

I glance out the window, staring at the house. It’s far too big to be called a house; the size is unimaginable. It’s a home a celebrity would have, yet this one is slightly different. Despite being gigantic and made out of the finest materials, it’s still holding some sentiment that resembles a true home.

“As ready as I’ll ever be.’’

SEVENTEEN

“That’s the surprise.’’ Blair's voice is flat, eyes locked with my father’s.

Since we left the car, she’s been clinging to me. Her hand wrapped around my forearm, gripping it tightly as we walked toward the door. She hasn’t let go.