QUOTE : If he scratches my baby . . .” Ben tried to scowl, but it didn’t take. He seemed relieved. And still hadn’t let go of my hand.<br />I heard a shoe scuff the ground. Shelton and Hi were standing across from Ben and me.<br />Shelton took a deep breath. “So it’s like that, huh?”<br />“Guys.” I felt my stomach lurch. “I know this is weird. Ben and I, we—”<br />Hi’s face was pained. “I don’t even get a chance? No shot to say how <i>I</i> feel?”<br />My head jerked back. “What?”<br />“So it’s all decided.” Shelton sullenly kicked a rock, his voice resentful. “What does Ben have that I don’t?”<br />I stared, openmouthed.<br />Hi dropped to a knee and pinned me with solemn eyes. “I can’t hide it anymore, Victoria. You need to know the truth. <i>I</i> love you, too. Forever and ever. I want to be your sweet babushka.”<br />My mind reeled. “Hi, I . . . I didn’t—”<br />“I’m gonna wring your stupid necks.” Ben’s face was burning.<br />Hi burst out laughing, rolling away from his kick. I glanced at Shelton, who was trying—and failing—to hold it together.<br />“I love you, Tory Brennan!” Hi bounced to his feet, ready to bolt at Ben’s slightest twitch. “Let me rub your supple feet!”<br />I covered my face with both hands. “Oh God.