With that, Pumpkin walked off, as if she meant to leave me alone with Ernest.

“You’re good to her,” he said, hands in his pockets.

“She’s good in bed. Deserves a few perks now and then.”

“Don’t talk like that! We’re talking about my daughter.” His voice was calm.

“My favorite pleasure toy. Fucks like no one else, and I don’t even have to pay extra for a blowjob.” I smirked.

I wasn’t ready for his fist, which slammed into the right side of my face. I ...