“I invited her,” Smith said.
Orion’s eyes widened for a second.
In his head, he screamed, Dad!
His lips twitched with the hint of a grin, but he quickly buried it. He forced himself to look composed, as though he didn’t like what was happening.
“Listen, Rosy—” he started, he didn't want her to think he planned this.
“Hi, Mr. Smith,” Rosy cut in gently. She didn’t even glance at Orion.
Instead, she stretched out her hand politely.
Smith’s expression softened, softer than she’d ever seen. He shook her hand, but before Rosy could pull back, he surprised her by pulling her into his arms.
Rosy froze and for a moment, she didn’t know how to react.
Should she hug him back or…she thought.
Orion’s father had always despised her, had called her names, had accused her of being a distracti
