The bedroom went completely still. It was as if the oxygen had been sucked out through the air vents.

Evelyn let out a high, nervous laugh that rang false. “Oh, Daniel, please. She doesn’t even know what she’s saying half the time with all the hormones—”

Dad stood up smoothly, his movements eerily fluid. He didn’t turn to face them.

“Grant,” Dad said, his tone dropping to sub-zero. “Take three steps back and step away from my daughter.”

Grant’s handsome face twisted into an arrogant sneer. He puffed out his chest, trying to assert dominance. “This is my damn house, Colonel. You don’t give orders here.”

I felt a strange spark ignite deep in my bruised ribs.