Ch 1-10

Summary

🌶️🌶️🌶️ What happens after “forever”? For Daniella and her three lovers, it’s a wedding invitation, a road trip, and a weekend that promises love, laughter—and heat. But as emotions run deep and unspoken truths rise to the surface, Dani must confront what it really means to be part of a whole. This time, it’s not about surviving the past. It’s about claiming joy in the present—and letting love be loud, messy, and real.

Chapter 1

POV: Daniella

“Okay,” Ace announced, eyes narrowed at his checklist like it had personally offended him. “Suits, shoes, shirts, chargers, condoms, and three different types of hair gel. We’re good.”

“You packed condoms before your toothbrush?” Nate deadpanned from the couch, stuffing snacks into a tote like we were preparing for a post-apocalyptic lockdown instead of a weekend wedding.

“It’s a wedding, not a monastery.” Ace gave him a smug look. “I plan on sinning.”

“Please,” Bob muttered from the floor beside me, zipping his duffel bag. “Just let me survive my mother’s judgmental death glare first.”

I sipped my coffee and tried not to laugh. “I still can’t believe I talked you into this.”

He turned to me, expression a mix of dread and awe. “Neither can I. Do you understand what you’ve done, Dani? You’ve willingly inserted yourself into a world of polished smiles, passive-aggressive toasts, and people who name their daughters things like Guinevere and Charlotte because Elizabeth wasn’t aristocratic enough.”

Nate made a dramatic face. “So tragic. A rich kid exiled from his five-star homeland.”

“I ran,” Bob said, pointing. “They were sucking out my soul one family brunch at a time. And now I’m walking back in—with backup, sure—but still.” His eyes flicked to me. “You’re really okay being my pretend girlfriend for this weekend?”

I smiled, leaning in to kiss his lips—slow and reverent. “I’m not pretending to be your girlfriend. I am your girlfriend. I just happen to have two more boyfriends.” I glanced at Nate and Ace, grinning. “And I’ve had worse gigs than this wedding. At least this one comes with room service and a formal dress code.”

Bob melted a little, his hand covering mine.

“Speaking of which—how am I supposed to survive sleeping apart from you?” Nate asked, sliding his arm around my waist and tugging me against his chest. “And watching Bob parade you around like you’re just his?”

“Oh, poor thing,” I said, kissing him now—his soft lips curling into a smile against mine.

“Besides,” I added, turning to Ace with a lifted brow, “you two can just sneak into my room after midnight like rebellious teenagers.”

“Oh, we’re sneaking?” Ace folded his arms. “That’s the plan now?” He stepped in, claiming me from Nate’s embrace and kissing me deeply.

Nate snorted. “You say that like you’re not going to cave in two hours and beg to sleep with her.”

Ace gave me a long look. “Who said anything about sleeping?”

I blushed. “The walls are going to be thin, aren’t they?”

“Guess we’ll find out,” Bob muttered, already looking like he regretted everything.

Ace sat back against the table, arms folded. “Okay, so we’ve got three rooms at the resort. One for Dani and Bob—romantic getaway vibes. Nate and I each get our own, so we don’t raise eyebrows. Schedule says rehearsal dinner Friday night, ceremony Saturday, brunch Sunday. We leave in about an hour. Sound right?”

“Sounds like hell,” Bob said cheerfully.

“Oh, stop,” I said gently, brushing his curls from his forehead. “It’s just a weekend. You get to see your sisters. And you won’t be alone.”

His expression softened, his hand resting on my thigh. “You’re too good to me.”

Ace coughed. “She’s too good to all of us. Let’s not forget it.”

Nate tossed a granola bar into my lap. “Snacks for the queen.”

I beamed. “My men take such good care of me.”

“Damn right we do,” Ace muttered, double-checking his phone. “Car’s fueled up. GPS is set. Bob, you’re still sure they won’t try to lock you in a castle tower or disown you publicly?”

“I give it 50/50,” Bob said, standing and stretching. “But if I survive the rehearsal dinner, we might make it.”

“If not,” Nate added dryly, “we’ll kidnap you back.”

“Don’t tempt me,” Bob muttered.

We gathered our bags, and before I could reach for mine, Nate was already hoisting it over his shoulder. “I’ve got this.”

Bob leaned down and whispered, “You sure you’re ready for this?”

I looked up at him, heart full, and nodded. “We’ll face it together.”

Ace opened the front door with a flourish. “Then let the family drama and awkward champagne toasts begin.”

Nate held the first aid kit like it was sacred cargo. “And may God have mercy on us all.”

I laughed as we stepped out into the morning sun, wrapped in nerves and coffee and the kind of love that could handle anything—even a weekend with Bob’s terrifyingly rich family.

The trip was long. Longer than it should’ve been. Thank God for Nate’s obsessive snack planning—if it weren’t for him, we’d have all killed each other by hour four.

“Next time,” Ace muttered from the passenger seat, unwrapping a protein bar, “we fly.”

“You say that like Bob’s car isn’t a luxury tank,” Nate said. “And you didn’t already fall asleep twice.”

“I was resting my eyes.”

I smiled in the back seat, curled up beside Bob.

When we finally pulled into the tree-lined private road, the mood shifted.

“Whoa,” I whispered.

The resort loomed ahead like something out of a dream—glass and stone and wood all woven into this impossibly grand estate, wrapped in gardens and fountains and so much opulence it made my chest tighten.

“Welcome to the kingdom,” Bob mumbled.

At the front, a polished gold sign greeted us in swirling cursive:

Mont Blanc Resort

A Heinmeir Company

I blinked. “Wait. Heinmeir… like your last name?”

He winced. “Yeah.”

“Wait.” I sat straighter. “This is your family’s resort?”

“One of them.”

Ace twisted in his seat to stare at Bob. Nate raised an eyebrow.

“Okay, wait. I knew you were rich,” I said, stunned, “but resort-owner rich?”

Bob sighed. “We’ve got resorts. Hotels. Some investments. My dad dabbles in politics. There’s a yacht somewhere. I don’t keep track.”

“You’re literally saying the most insane things with the energy of someone ordering a coffee,” I muttered.

“Yeah, well,” he said with a dry smile. “I told you they’re aristocrats.”

Ace let out a low whistle. “Damn, Robert.”

“Don’t you start,” Bob warned, parking.

The second we stepped out, warm air and flower-scented breeze hit us. Inside, the lobby was even more absurd—towering ceilings, gleaming marble, and a crystal chandelier that looked like it could fund my entire college education.

As we approached the check-in desk, Ace leaned in. “Let’s make sure our rooms are close.”

“I already requested that,” Bob said.

“Smart,” Nate added.

The receptionist smiled at us. “Hello! Welcome to Mont Blanc. Do you have a reservation?”

“Yes. Robert Heinmeir and party,” Bob said.

Her eyebrows rose a fraction. “Of course. And your… guests?”

I stepped forward with a practiced smile. “They’re our close friends. We’ve been roommates since college. We all live in the same building now—basically inseparable.”

“Like a little family,” Nate added, easily.

“We’re hopelessly co-dependent,” I said with a sigh and a grin.

The receptionist laughed. “Understood. I’ll place all three rooms in the same wing. You’ll have keycard access to each other’s suites.”

Ace leaned down to whisper, “You’re terrifyingly good at this.”

“It’s called planning,” I said, shooting him a wink.

“Robert?”

We all turned.

A woman in a sleek black dress and a sharp blazer walked toward us, blonde curls bouncing, lips painted a soft coral pink. Familiar green eyes sparkled.

“Charlotte,” Bob breathed.

She pulled him into a hug. “You’re early.”

“You’re here,” he said, surprised.

“I came to help with the setup,” she said, pulling back, eyes shifting to us. “And these must be your friends.”

“This is Daniella,” Bob said, tugging me to his side. “My girlfriend.”

Her eyes softened instantly. “Wow. He never brings anyone home. You must be really important.”

My chest warmed. “It’s nice to meet you. I’ve heard good things.”

She hugged me quickly. “Nice to meet someone real. And Ace—Adrian, right? You two were roommates in college.”

“Yeah,” Ace said, extending a hand.

“And Nate. I know your name from Bob rambling about you two for years.”

Bob groaned. “Charlotte.”

“What? It’s true,” she said with a teasing smile. “Anyway, welcome. You’re all staying for the weekend, right?”

“Yes,” Bob said.

“Great. Mom and Dad will be here tomorrow morning.”

Bob’s jaw clenched.

She glanced at me, sensing the tension, then gave me a small conspiratorial smile. “Don’t worry. You’ve already won me over.”

I looked at Bob, who squeezed my hand gently.

“So I’m important?” I teased.

He smiled, soft and real. “Of course you are, beautiful.”

He kissed my temple, and I melted. For a moment, it felt like we were just a regular couple arriving for a fun wedding.

Even though I knew better.

This was the calm before the storm.

And I’d stand tall through it all—for him. For them. For us.

Chapter 2

POV: Daniella

The suite was ridiculous. In the best way.

Tall windows framed a view of the ocean so blue it looked surreal. A massive bed, silky sheets, and a balcony that practically begged for morning coffee and soft kisses. I dropped my bag by the door, still stunned.

“Okay. You didn’t tell me we were staying in a castle,” I said, spinning around slowly.

Bob—no, Robert, apparently—flashed that guilty smile I loved. “It’s not a castle. Just… a Heinmeir resort perk.”

“Which means it is a castle. You absolute liar.”

He laughed, walking over and wrapping his arms around my waist. “I didn’t lie. I said my family was rich. I just didn’t mention the… kingdom.”

I kissed his chin, tugging lightly on his shirt. “Well, thanks for bringing your peasant girlfriend along.”

His smile faltered just slightly. “Don’t say that.”

“I’m kidding,” I whispered, softening. I ran my fingers through his hair. “But seriously… are you nervous?”

He nodded, his smile dimming. “Yeah. My parents are… a lot. But having you here makes it easier. Thank you for coming.”

Bob tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. His hazel eyes locked on mine, full of that quiet adoration that always undid me.

I kissed him—slow and deep. One of his hands held my waist while the other cradled my cheek, thumb brushing gently across my skin. When he tilted his head and deepened the kiss, I melted, moaning softly as I felt the unmistakable press of his arousal against my thigh. Bob bit my bottom lip, just enough to make me gasp—

—and then a knock shattered the moment.

I groaned and opened the door to find Nate and Ace already in swim trunks, grinning like absolute menaces.

And God, they looked good. Both of them, sunkissed and smug and mine.

“Drinks?” Nate asked, sunglasses perched on his head. “We scoped out the pool. Bar’s open, water’s perfect. And Bob said we better enjoy it now, before the nightmare shows up.”

Bob groaned from behind me. “I said after today, everything gets stiff and formal. Come on.”

“Oh no,” Ace said, deadpan. “The Heinmeir Curse approaches.”

They all laughed, but the tension behind their smiles wasn’t missed.

“You know what won’t help with tension?” Nate added, smirking. “Seeing Dani in a bikini and not touching her.”

Ace raised a brow. “Speak for yourself. I plan to touch—just later.”

I rolled my eyes, blushing. “You’re all children.”

“Only when you wear that red bikini,” Bob said, grabbing his towel.

“This bikini?” I asked, pulling the piece from my bag with a teasing smile before disappearing into the bathroom. If I changed in front of them, we wouldn’t make it to the pool at all.

Nate and Bob headed down first to claim lounge chairs, leaving me alone with Ace while I got ready.

He lingered by the door… and then closed it. Leaned against the wall. Watching.

I adjusted my top and caught his eyes in the mirror. His gaze was hot. Intense. Quietly possessive.

“You okay?” I asked, slipping into my cover-up.

He crossed the room in two long strides.

“It’s hard,” he said.

I blinked. “What is?”

“Seeing you be Bob’s girlfriend out there.” His voice was low, rougher than usual. “Hearing people assume that. And having to pretend I’m just some guy in your group.”

“Ace…” I stepped closer, my heart twisting.

He shook his head. “I get it. I really do. But it still messes with my head. You’re his. But you’re mine too. And Nate’s. And no one knows that.”

I reached out, laying my palm flat against his chest, right over his heart. “I am yours. Completely. Just like I’m Bob’s. Just like I’m Nate’s. Even if we have to pretend… it doesn’t change what’s real.”

I cupped his face, grounding him. “I love you. And I always will. No matter what the world sees—or doesn’t. I’ll always be yours.”

That was all it took.

His lips crashed into mine, hungry and raw. His hands gripped my waist, dragging me closer like he needed to feel me, all of me. I kissed him back, just as desperate. My back hit the edge of the bed and his thigh pressed between mine.

“Fuck,” he growled against my lips, trailing kisses down my neck. His hands roamed, sliding over the thin fabric of my bikini, setting fire everywhere they touched. He toyed with the waistband, his eyes dark and searching mine for permission.

I nodded, breath catching.

His fingers slipped beneath the fabric, teasing first—circling my clit until I gasped, clinging to his shoulders.

“Ace—” I moaned, barely able to whisper as he found my slit and pushed in, slow and deliberate.

“Say you’re mine,” he murmured.

“I’m yours,” I breathed. “Yours, Ace.”

He kissed me again, tongue and teeth, deeper this time. His fingers moved inside me, curling in just the right way. My knees buckled.

And then—Bob’s voice called from the hallway.

“Pool’s amazing! You two coming or what?”

Ace groaned, forehead resting against mine.

I tried to catch my breath, still trembling.

“I hate him a little right now,” he muttered.

I laughed, breathless. “Same.”

He helped me adjust my bikini, his fingers lingering, one last kiss pressed to my lips—gentle now. “Later. I’m not done with you.”

“I hope not.”

And then we stepped out into the sunshine, pretending we were nothing more than friends.

But beneath the heat of the tropical sun, we were already burning with truths we couldn’t say out loud.

The pool was paradise.

Infinity edge, sparkling water, drinks that tasted like vacation, and enough sun to make my shoulders glow. Bob and I had taken over the shallow end, legs tangled, cool water lapping around us. Nate and Ace lounged in chairs nearby, sunglasses on, shirtless, sipping cocktails like they belonged in a calendar shoot.

Bob’s arm tightened around my waist as he dipped his head, brushing his lips against mine—soft at first, then deepening with purpose. His tongue teased, coaxed, tasted me like he hadn’t in days. His hand slid under the water, over the curve of my hip, and I let myself sink into it. Let myself be his.

Until someone cleared their throat.

Nate.

I pulled back from the kiss with a breathless laugh, turning toward the chairs. Both of them were watching us now—Ace with one brow arched, Nate with that almost-smile he did when he was annoyed but trying not to be.

“Keep looking at us like that,” Nate murmured, “and someone’s going to drag you out of that pool.”

I bit my lip and tilted my head. “Is that a threat or a promise?”

Ace raised his drink in a lazy toast. “Depends how long you keep teasing.”

Bob chuckled beside me, brushing his fingers down my spine under the water. “Let them suffer a little.”

That earned him another throat-clear from Nate—and then, footsteps.

A new presence. Feminine. Confident.

“Robert.”

I turned as Bob straightened instantly beside me. A woman stood near the edge of the pool in a white sundress and designer sunglasses. Long honey-brown hair. Elegant posture. Regal, really.

“Guinevere,” Bob said, getting out of the pool and offering her a hug that was more polite than warm. “I didn’t know you were already here.”

“I flew in early. Wanted to soak in the sun before the circus starts.” Her gaze slid to me with a glint of curiosity. “You must be Daniella.”

I stepped out of the pool, water cascading down my body, and reached for a towel. “Hi. Nice to meet you.”

She looked me over slowly. Her smile was polite, but there was something sharpened behind it—like she was already deciding whether I passed some silent test. “Likewise.”

Then her gaze slid past me like I wasn’t even there. “And you are?”

“Nate,” he said, standing and offering a quick, awkward handshake. “Friend of Bob.”

Her smile stretched wider, feline and amused. “Friend? That’s all?” She cocked her head, eyeing him up and down. “You look far more interesting than that.”

I let out a soft, involuntary sound—half amusement, half warning—but my throat tightened. A flush crept up my neck, heat blooming beneath my skin.

Chapter 3

POV: Daniella

“I’m Ace,” he said, extending his hand as well, but she barely looked at him. Polite smile, nothing more. She’d already chosen her target.

Bob stepped behind me, hand sliding to the small of my back in quiet support. He saw it—the tension radiating off me like steam—but I tried to hide it. Tried not to care.

Guinevere’s attention didn’t waver.

“You’re a doctor, right?” she asked Nate, circling him now, her voice all silk and interest. “I’m finishing med school. Bob mentioned you’re a pediatric neurologist. That must be so intense. So… fascinating. I bet you have the best stories.”

Nate cleared his throat, this time from discomfort, not sarcasm. “It’s… fulfilling. Sometimes hard.”

She tilted her head just so. “Hard can be exciting, though, can’t it?” Her fingers brushed his arm under the pretense of interest, lingering just a second too long. “You’ll have to tell me one of those stories. Maybe later? Over drinks?”

I moved without thinking—stepping closer to Nate, like my body had made the decision before my brain caught up. Possessive. Protective. Jealous.

I hated how natural it felt.

Bob’s hand tightened gently on my back, grounding me again, silently telling me he saw it all. And that it was okay.

Guinevere barely glanced at the shift. “You’re not going to stay in the pool?” she asked Nate, her voice sweet but loaded.

Before Nate could answer, Bob cut in. “Guin, we were just about to head up—”

“I won’t keep you. I just came to say hi. And to let you know Mom and Dad are arriving sooner than expected.” She waved her phone. “We’re all summoned for dinner. Formal. Tonight.”

Bob glanced at his phone and sighed. “Of course we are.”

“Try not to be late,” she added, turning back to Nate. “And I do hope I’ll see you at the pool again, later.” Her smile was honey-coated venom.

Once she’d walked away, hips swaying like it was part of her job description, Bob muttered, “She’s worse than I remembered.”

“She’s…” I trailed off.

“She’s dangerous,” Nate said bluntly. “And apparently into doctors.”

Bob rolled his eyes. “She’s into anything she can’t have.”

We walked back to the chairs. Bob got a towel, drying off while checking his phone again.

“I’m gonna go shower and get ready for this stupid thing. You guys coming up?”

“I’ll stay a bit,” I said. “Nate, you?”

He nodded. Bob gave me a kiss on the temple before heading off with Ace, leaving Nate and me alone.

I sank into the edge of a lounge chair, legs still dipped in the pool. Nate sat beside me, stretching out like he was trying to act relaxed.

“You okay?” I asked.

He didn’t answer right away. Just stared at the water, then finally said, “You got jealous.”

I blinked. “What?”

“When Guin was flirting with me. You were glaring like you wanted to drown her.”

“I was not—” I paused. “Okay, maybe a little.”

He chuckled, low and warm. “It was cute.”

“I don’t want to be that girl,” I admitted. “But it’s hard. She’s beautiful and elegant and knows exactly what she’s doing. And you were… smiling.”

“I was being polite,” he said, voice softer now. “I’m not interested in her, Dani.”

I nodded. “I know. I do. But still… I hate pretending in front of everyone. Like I’m Bob’s and only Bob’s.”

“I get it,” he said. “But it doesn’t mean it doesn’t sting. Seeing you kiss him in front of everyone while I sit there, pretending it doesn’t matter. When it does.”

My heart twisted. I reached for his hand, squeezed it.

“I did this for him. To make this easier with his family. But I never wanted you—or Ace—to feel pushed aside.”

“We know,” he said, thumb brushing over my knuckles. “Doesn’t make it easier.”

“I’ll find a way to make it up to you,” I whispered, leaning into him.

Nate’s eyes locked on mine, heated and intense. “You better. Because watching you in that bikini, wrapped around him like that, and not being able to touch you—fuck, Dani.”

“I’ll make it up,” I promised again, kissing his shoulder.

His voice dropped to a whisper. “I’ll hold you to that.”

We stayed there in silence, the sun dipping lower, the water glinting gold around us—two lovers forced to hide in plain sight, but hearts still burning beneath the surface.

By the time we got back to the room, my skin was still prickling—part sun, part jealousy, and part something hotter I wasn’t ready to name.

Nate and Ace had already decided not to use their rooms. Their bags sat by the dresser now, half-unpacked, suits hanging from the closet rod. This was our base. Theirs were just for show.

I slipped into the bathroom with my dress and makeup bag while the boys changed in the bedroom, the low hum of conversation and the occasional curse over ties filling the air. I could hear Bob’s voice through the door.

“Just remember,” he said, tone tight, “don’t talk about politics. Or religion. Or sex. Actually, just let me talk. Smile and nod, and for the love of God, don’t flirt back if my mother flirts with one of you. She does that.”

“Oh,” Ace said, “sounds like a party.”

Nate laughed under his breath. “Should we take notes?”

“Not funny,” Bob muttered.

I smirked to myself and stepped out, smoothing the silk of my slate-blue dress down my thighs. It was sleeveless, with a dipped neckline and a soft cling to my hips. Elegant enough to be respectable, but… it didn’t hide much.

Conversation stopped.

Three pairs of eyes found me at once.

“Well,” Ace said first, his voice a little too low, “we’re definitely going to be late.”

Bob’s gaze burned over every inch of me. “That dress is going to kill me.”

Nate blinked once, slowly. “You look… unreal.”

I felt heat rise in my chest and tried to play it off. “It’s just a dress.”

“It’s not,” Bob said, already crossing the room. “It’s a fucking declaration.”

His hands found my waist like they’d lived there forever—firm, confident, possessive. Bob leaned in, and the kiss he gave me was anything but gentle. It was hungry. Slow at first, then deeper, his tongue slipping between my lips as if he couldn’t get enough of me.

I melted into it, my body already pulsing, heat blooming low in my belly.

Then I felt him.

Ace.

He stepped in behind me, one hand sliding over the curve of my hip, the other brushing my hair aside like he owned the right to touch me. His chest pressed to my back, and then—God—his hips. Hard. Insistent. His erection rubbed against my ass through his slacks, making me gasp into Bob’s mouth.

A moan slipped out, involuntary and filthy, and it only made Bob kiss me harder.

Then Nate.

I felt the heat of his breath before I saw him, and then his lips found the curve of my neck. Soft, warm kisses. Slow. Torturous. His hand slid along the edge of my open dress, fingers slipping between fabric and skin like silk on fire.

He cupped one breast, teasing my nipple with practiced ease, thumb circling, fingers tugging just enough to make my knees buckle.

I was soaked.

Already panting.

And completely overwhelmed.

Nate’s voice rasped low in my ear. “You’re going to make it really hard to pretend we’re just friends tonight.”

I could barely think. Barely breathe.

“You’ve all ruined my panties,” I whispered, dizzy with need. “I should probably change.”

Ace chuckled behind me, deep and sinful, his hand wrapping around my wrist like a promise. “Don’t test us, baby. Not unless you’re ready to pay for it later.”

He pressed forward again, slow and deliberate, grinding just enough to make me whimper. “Or now,” he added, voice dark. “Honestly, I’m starting to care less and less about this dinner.”

Bob pulled back just enough to look at me—his lips swollen, eyes dark with lust. “We’re going to be late,” he groaned, but his voice lacked conviction.

My body ached, alive and buzzing with every inch of skin they’d touched.

“I thought your mom was the terrifying one,” I managed, cheeks flushed, thighs clenched. “Shouldn’t we be early?”

“She is,” Bob said, running his hand down my spine, pausing just above my ass. “And if she sees you like this, she’ll know something’s up. She’s… sharp. Strategic. Likes to test people. She’ll probably ask you a lot of personal questions—just let me handle it, okay? You don’t have to prove anything to her.”

Ace nipped my earlobe before letting go. “Guess we’ll have to behave… for now.”

Nate’s hand lingered over the bare skin of my chest one final beat before he sighed and stepped back. “Later,” he whispered, his lips brushing my jaw. “We’re not done.”

My body screamed at the loss of contact, but my heart raced even faster. Because they weren’t bluffing.

And the tension now?

Unbearable.

The kind you don’t forget.

The kind that demands release.

Nate stepped in, more serious now. “If she crosses a line, we’ve got you.”

Ace nodded. “You’re not doing this alone, Dani.”

My heart did that fluttery thing again. The way they always had my back. The way it wasn’t just sex or fun or drama—it was real. They cared.

Bob adjusted his cufflinks and gave me a half-smile. “You’ll be fine. You’re brilliant. And gorgeous. She won’t know what to do with you.”

“She might try to interrogate you about your job, or your family. Just keep your answers light and vague,” Nate added.

“I can do that,” I said, and suddenly my dress didn’t feel like armor—it felt like a weapon.

We all did one last look in the mirror. I fixed Bob’s tie. Ace adjusted Nate’s collar. Nate buttoned the back of my dress for me, his fingers lingering a beat too long.

When we finally left the room, we were charged.

Tension curled around us like heat lightning—hot, electric, and ready to snap.

Dinner was going to be polite.

But later?

Later was going to be something else entirely.

Chapter 4

POV: Daniella

The ballroom glittered with gold and candlelight, the kind of place that made you straighten your spine even if you didn’t know why. Polished marble floors reflected every shimmer of the chandeliers overhead. Towering floral arrangements in shades of cream and blush stood like guardians between the tables, while waiters in black moved silently, expertly balancing trays of crystal flutes and hors d’oeuvres.

It smelled like money. Like generational legacy. Like judgment dressed in silk.

I pulled my shoulders back, the blue satin of my dress hugging every curve. Beside me, Bob walked with quiet confidence—tall in his tailored suit, his features set in a perfect, practiced calm. His hand never left mine.

It grounded me.

Behind us, Ace and Nate flanked our sides like shadows in Brioni—sharp, watchful, too handsome for their own good. We didn’t just enter the room. We entered as a unit.

Bob leaned in and whispered, “Just breathe. Remember, this is your night too.”

I nodded. But the ballroom felt like a spotlight.

And then—we saw them.

His parents.

They stood near the main table, statuesque, their posture cultivated by decades of power and prestige. His mother was striking—light brown hair swept into an elegant chignon, icy blue eyes framed by delicate crow’s feet that didn’t soften her expression. She wore a midnight black gown and diamonds that glinted like ice shards. Her smile was precise, like it had been practiced in front of mirrors and enemies alike.

His father could’ve been Bob’s older clone—same hazel eyes, same strong jawline, though his blond hair had faded into steel gray. His stance was stiff, arms crossed even as he nursed a drink, like every social engagement was just another transaction.

“Robert,” his mother said with cool grace, air-kissing each of his cheeks. “Finally.”

Her gaze snapped to me. The smile didn’t falter, but something in her eyes shifted—like a scanner had just locked onto an unexpected data set.

“And this must be…”

“Daniella,” I said, trying to hit the sweet spot between too meek and too forward.

“Of course.” She said it like she was sampling a vintage she hadn’t expected to enjoy. “You’re… not quite what I imagined.”

“She’s my girlfriend,” Bob said evenly, his arm sliding around my waist like it belonged there. “And she’s amazing.”

Her lips pressed into a polite, tight line. “Well. Bob never brought anyone before. We’re very observant in this family. Let’s hope you live up to what he’s worth.”

She delivered the blow like it was a toast.

“Mother—” Bob started, but I squeezed his hand, smiling before he could snap.

“It’s a beautiful party,” I said with practiced sweetness. “Thank you for having me.”

She blinked. Just once. Surprised.

A little annoyed.

Small win.

Bob’s father extended a stiff handshake, nodded, and offered a gruff “Welcome.”

Then Bob turned slightly. “These are my closest friends—Nate and Ace.”

Nate stepped forward, offering his hand with polite confidence. “Pleasure to meet you, ma’am.”

Her smile didn’t touch her eyes. “Likewise.”

Ace gave a slow, deliberate smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes—calculating, curious.

A panther reading the room. Her gaze flicked between them, something clearly not computing in her aristocratic brain.

We moved on, the four of us slipping into the crowd just as the music transitioned to a lilting classical piece. I exhaled only when I could no longer feel her ice-chip stare drilling into my shoulder blades.

“Breathe,” Bob whispered against my ear again. “You’re doing great.”

“I feel like I just survived a Vogue cover shoot and a tax audit at the same time.”

He laughed under his breath and kissed my temple.

Then—thankfully—Charlotte.

“Dani!” she said, pulling me into a hug that felt sincere in a room full of masks. She wore soft pink chiffon and diamond hairpins, her makeup glowing and not too perfect. Next to her stood a man with kind, intelligent eyes and sandy-blond hair.

“This is Matthew,” she said, beaming. “My fiancé.”

“Pleasure,” he said, shaking my hand. His grip was warm and steady. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

“Hopefully good things.”

“Oh, all good. Charlotte says Bob’s never looked this happy. You must be a miracle worker.”

I smiled, cheeks warming.

Matthew shook hands with Nate and Ace, exchanging a nod with Bob, before gesturing to someone stepping toward us.

“I want you to meet my sister—Helena.”

And just like that, the temperature dropped a few degrees.

Helena was tall and glossy, with dark chestnut hair that fell in polished waves over one shoulder. Her dress was body-hugging silver satin, lips painted a shade of red that matched danger signs. Her confidence was the kind that came from a lifetime of never hearing “no.”

Her eyes landed on Ace like a predator clocking her prey.

I saw it instantly.

Ace did too.

“Helena, this is Robert—Charlotte’s brother—his girlfriend Daniella, and their friends, Nathanael and Adrian,” Matthew said warmly.

“Please,” Bob said with a light groan, “no one calls me Robert except Mom. It’s just Bob. This is Dani, and my friends go by Nate and Ace.”

Helena nodded politely, but her eyes never left Ace. “Ace, is it?” she said, stepping in just a little too close. “And what do you do?”

Ace’s polite smile barely moved his lips. “I’m a lawyer.”

“Mm. I love a man who can argue well.” Her fingers brushed his forearm—intentional. Possessive.

I sipped my champagne.

No need to growl. Yet.

But I moved closer, my arm brushing against Ace’s. His fingers twitched, then steadied, and that little knowing smirk curled at the corners of his mouth.

He was enjoying this. Bastard.

“Maybe another time,” Ace said smoothly, turning just enough to let our shoulders align.

Nate raised an amused brow, sipping his drink like he was watching live theater.

The music shifted again—slower, softer. Bob caught my hand and steered us toward a small table tucked near the edge of the ballroom, beneath a tall window draped in sheer white curtains. Ace and Nate followed without a word, as natural as gravity.

I sat, the silk of my dress whispering against my thighs as I smoothed it. My spine ached from all the polite posture. My jaw from too many curated smiles.

All around us, people whispered. Watched.

I wasn’t just Bob’s girlfriend. I was a Heinmeir’s girlfriend.

And I was… more.

They couldn’t categorize me.

And I liked it that way.

But underneath the calm—

Heat.

Ace’s fingers found mine under the table, slipping between them, warm and grounding. Nate’s brushed my thigh, deliberate and soft, his expression calm but his eyes burning.

Bob took my other hand in full view, lifting it to press a kiss to my knuckles like we were already married.

“Everyone keeps watching us,” I murmured low, a wicked smile tugging at my lips. “I know you three are hot as hell, but come on. Why does everyone want a piece of my men?”

They all chuckled softly—low, rich sounds that felt like warm fingers down my spine.

Bob leaned in, lips brushing the shell of my ear. “Jealous?”

“Maybe.”

Ace murmured, “You didn’t growl. That’s progress.”

“I’m saving it for later,” I said sweetly.

The moment held—tender, electric, unspoken things passing between us like static.

This wasn’t just a dinner.

It was a declaration.

The calm before the burn.

And I was ready for the fire.

The garden was beautiful. White orchids curved delicately around golden lanterns, everything glowing with this warm, soft light like a fairy tale. But I couldn’t enjoy any of it.

Not when Bob’s hand tightened just slightly against my lower back.

He was tense. I could feel it before I even saw her.

“Robert,” his mother said, her voice smooth as glass. Too smooth. “There’s someone here I just knew you’d be thrilled to see.”

My stomach flipped.

Bob’s body stiffened beside me. His hand slipped from my back.

“Mother—” he started, but she didn’t let him finish.

“It’s a wedding, darling. Joyful reunions are practically required.”

And then she walked up.

A tall brunette in a sleek navy dress, legs for days, and a champagne glass dangling from perfectly manicured fingers. She looked like she’d stepped off the cover of a magazine. Elegant. Poised. Expensive. And the way her eyes zeroed in on Bob like she already owned him?

I hated her instantly.

“Robert,” she said, like the word was a secret she was letting me hear. “It’s been too long.”

Bob’s jaw clenched. His whole body went rigid. “Clara,” he said flatly.

He didn’t smile. Didn’t hug her. Didn’t touch her at all. But I saw it—that flicker of something. A history I wasn’t a part of. She leaned in for a cheek kiss he clearly didn’t want, and my skin burned.

I didn’t realize I’d taken a step toward him until a gentle but firm hand caught my arm.

“Daniella,” his mother said, turning to me with a smile that didn’t come anywhere near her eyes, “would you come with me for a moment? I’d love a private word.”

Chapter 5

POV: Daniella

Everything in me screamed no. But I caught the looks across the garden—Nate watching like a hawk from the terrace, Ace half-turning toward us with narrowed eyes. They saw it happening. They didn’t like it.

But they also couldn’t do a damn thing about it.

So I nodded and followed her.

We walked into a smaller garden off to the side, more secluded, quieter. She took her time, every step like a dance she’d practiced her whole life. And when she finally turned to face me, it was like she’d been waiting for this moment since the second I arrived.

“You’re a beautiful girl,” she said, voice calm and clipped. “Truly. But being with a Heinmeir isn’t about beauty. It’s about legacy. About bloodlines, and responsibility. And… I’m not sure you understand what that means.”

I stared at her for a second.

The words didn’t hurt—they pissed me off.

Because I knew what she meant. I wasn’t one of them. I wasn’t rich or polished or born into money. I didn’t have family connections or a last name that opened doors. I was just… me.

But damn it, that had always been enough.

So I stood up straighter. I kept my voice even.

“Look,” I said, “I understand you’re trying to protect your son. But you’ve got the wrong idea about me.”

She blinked, like she wasn’t used to being interrupted. Like she couldn’t believe I dared.

“I’m not just a pretty face,” I continued. “I’ve worked every day of my life to build something. I put myself through school, I built my career from scratch. I’ve fought like hell for everything I have. And Bob? Your son? I love him.”

My voice wobbled, just for a second. But I didn’t let it fall.

“I didn’t come here because of his name. Or money. I came because he sees me. And I see him. And whether or not I belong in your world doesn’t matter to me. Because he’s the only part of it I want.”

The silence that followed was thick.

And then—

“She belongs with me.”

I turned at the sound of his voice, my heart catching in my throat.

Bob was standing just behind me, eyes blazing, hands clenched at his sides. I didn’t know how long he’d been there—but he’d heard me. All of it.

“I didn’t ask for your approval,” he said to his mother. “And I don’t need it. But if you can’t respect her—don’t talk to her at all.”

His mother straightened, her face twitching like she wanted to say something else. But Bob didn’t give her the chance.

“It’s my sister’s wedding. I brought the woman I love. That’s the only thing that matters.”

He stepped closer and took my hand, threading our fingers together like it was a promise.

And then we turned and walked away.

As we neared the others again, I felt my heart pounding—not from nerves. From pride. From him.

“You were incredible back there,” he whispered against my temple.

I looked up at him, still breathless. “I meant every word.”

His grip on my hand tightened. “So did I.”

And the look in his eyes?

Said everything he hadn’t said out loud yet.

By the time we rejoined the crowd, my heart was still thudding in my chest—but not from fear anymore. I’d said what I needed to say. Bob had heard me. And I wasn’t alone.

Nate was the first to spot us. He peeled away from a conversation near the bar and pressed a glass of water into my hand like he’d been waiting with it.

“Drink,” he said softly, eyes searching mine. “You okay?”

“Yeah.” I nodded, voice low. “I am now.”

Ace was behind him. He slid in smoothly, his hand brushing the small of my back, then dipped his head to kiss my temple. His lips lingered just long enough to ground me.

“I was watching the whole time,” he whispered. “You handled her like a damn queen.”

God, I loved them.

I took a deep breath and looked at Bob, who hadn’t let go of my hand once. But there was something flickering in the back of my mind—one last question burning on my tongue.

“Who was that?” I asked, keeping my voice even. “The brunette. Clara.”

Bob’s jaw clenched the second I said her name. “Clara’s… my ex. Our parents arranged it years ago. It was never about love. She liked the lifestyle, the power, the prestige. But when I broke things off, she didn’t handle it well.”

Of course she didn’t. Heinmeir men weren’t exactly easy to let go of.

“She shouldn’t even be here,” he added darkly. “She wasn’t invited by Charlotte. I’ll handle it.”

I didn’t answer at first. Just sipped my water, keeping my expression unreadable. But he caught my chin with two fingers and gently tilted my face toward his.

“You were amazing tonight,” he said, eyes fierce with something that looked a lot like devotion. “With my mother. With all of it. I know this world isn’t easy, and you walked into it like you owned it. I’m so fucking proud of you.”

A slow smile pulled at my lips. “Well. I am amazing.”

Ace laughed behind me. “She’s got a point.”

Nate crossed his arms, smirking. “I think we owe her something, don’t we?”

“Oh, definitely,” Bob agreed. “After the way she handled today? She deserves a reward.”

I arched a brow at the three of them, swirling the last of the water in my glass. “Good. Because I’ve been through a lot of jealousy today. Clara batting her lashes at you, Guinevere throwing herself at Nate, Helena trying to sink her claws into Ace… I’ve earned at least a little something.”

Ace leaned in close, his mouth brushing my ear. “Baby, if you’re fishing for a little something… you’re about to get a lot of something.”

My skin flushed at the heat in his voice.

Nate smirked. “We did tell Charlotte we were heading out early.”

Bob stepped behind me, resting his hands on my hips, lips near the curve of my neck. “Our little party’s waiting.”

I turned toward them, cheeks warm, pulse picking up.

“Well then,” I said, setting my glass down on a nearby tray, “what are we still doing here?”

They didn’t answer. They didn’t need to.

We slipped out quietly, unnoticed in the flow of champagne and clinking forks and distant laughter.

But I knew the real celebration was just beginning.

By the time the door clicked shut behind us, the air changed.

Gone was the formal tension of dinner, the weight of Bob’s mother’s words, the jealousy that had simmered behind my smile all night. All that was left was this—us.

Bob tossed his jacket aside and locked the door with a sharp click. He was already undoing his tie, movements taut and full of restrained energy. Nate drew the curtains closed with swift, deliberate precision. Ace dimmed the lights until the room was wrapped in a soft, amber glow.

And I just stood there—heart thudding, mouth dry—watching the three men who loved me move in silent, perfect synchrony. My body responded before thought could catch up.

“Sit,” Bob commanded, his voice deep and thick, the sound vibrating low in my core. I obeyed instantly, heat blooming between my thighs.

Chapter 6

POV: Daniella

They began to undress—slowly, deliberately—and I watched, breathless, as three monuments of desire stripped down for me, each movement a promise.

I perched on the edge of the bed, anticipation curling tight in my belly. Ace knelt in front of me, hands bracing my thighs, gaze reverent.

He removed my shoes, one by one, and kissed my ankles. “You were unbelievable today,” he murmured, lips brushing higher. “That speech? You stared her down like a queen. Do you have any idea what that did to me?”

“Probably the same thing it did to me,” Nate murmured behind me, fingers ghosting over my shoulders as he slid off my wrap and shifted my hair to the side. “You stood there, fearless and stunning, and I thought… fuck, she’s mine.”

I exhaled a trembling breath as Nate’s lips touched the curve of my neck, Ace’s warm palms sliding up my thighs beneath my dress.

Bob stepped between my legs, tilting my chin up. “I’ve never been prouder,” he whispered, forehead resting against mine. “You didn’t just endure her—you owned her.”

I smiled, breathless. “Told you I’m more than a pretty face.”

His eyes darkened. “Oh, baby… you’re everything.”

Then he kissed me. Hard. Deep. Possessive. Like he needed to reclaim every part of me.

I moaned into his mouth as Nate’s fingers slid my zipper down and Ace pushed my dress higher. Their touch was reverent, purposeful—each of them showing how much they needed me.

“You’re overdressed,” Ace murmured, lips brushing my thigh.

“Then fix it,” I whispered.

They did.

Nate peeled my dress down my body like it was sacred fabric. Ace unclasped my bra, knuckles brushing my skin with aching patience. Bob leaned down, kissed between my breasts… then lower, until I arched into him with a soft gasp.

They touched me like I was their prayer.

Ace removed my panties in one smooth motion, baring me to the room, to them. He pulled me gently to the edge of the bed as Nate laid me back. Then Ace opened my thighs, eyes never leaving mine, and pressed soft, open-mouthed kisses along my inner thigh.

When his tongue touched my clit, I gasped, back arching. His mouth moved with unrelenting precision—slow, teasing, devastating.

Nate took one breast into his mouth, sucking and nipping as Bob kissed me upside down, lips claiming mine, tongue coaxing.

“You taste so fucking good,” Ace groaned into me.

“God, I— I can’t…” I whimpered.

“Yes you can,” Bob said, hand in my hair. “Take it. Come for us, beautiful.”

Ace slid one finger inside me, then two, curling just right. I shattered.

My orgasm tore through me, body convulsing, cries muffled into Bob’s mouth. But they weren’t finished.

Bob switched with Ace. Ace kissed me, slow and deep, while Bob dropped between my thighs, his mouth on my still-sensitive clit.

“Feel it, princess,” Ace whispered. “Feel your taste on my tongue.”

That alone made me come again, crying out his name.

“I could do this all day,” Nate muttered before kissing me, his tongue coaxing mine.

Bob stood, hands wrapping around my calves, lifting them to his shoulders. His cock nudged my entrance—thick, hot, ready.

“You’re mine,” he growled as he pushed in, slowly. I gasped, overwhelmed by the stretch, the weight of him. His rhythm was relentless, grounding.

I reached for Nate and Ace, stroking them both. Their cocks hard and needy in my hands, their eyes filled with hunger.

Ace pinched my nipple. Nate’s fingers rolled over my clit.

It was too much. I came again, clenching around Bob, who groaned and spilled inside me. “Fuck, Dani…”

He collapsed beside me, panting. Ace took his place, lying down, cock stiff. I straddled him and sank down, taking all of him in with a moan.

“So tight,” he growled, hands gripping my hips. Nate moved behind me, lube in hand.

“May I, baby girl?” he asked.

“Yes,” I breathed.

He pushed in slowly, stretching me until I was filled in every possible way.

I leaned forward, forehead to Ace’s, as Nate began to move. Then Ace. They found their rhythm. I was wrecked—shaking, overwhelmed, on fire.

“I’m gonna—”

Ace came first, pulsing inside me. Nate followed, groaning low, clutching my waist. And I fell apart between them—every part of me touched, worshipped, claimed.

They kept going, murmuring praise, kissing my skin, driving me to the edge again and again.

When it was finally over, I was boneless and sated, sprawled in their arms, skin slick with sweat and kisses.

Bob curled around me. “You still want that reward?”

I let out a breathless laugh. “Think I just got it.”

“That was just the beginning,” Ace chuckled.

Nate brushed my lips with his. “Tomorrow might be chaos. But tonight? You’re ours.”

And I was.

Claimed. Loved. Worshipped.

And I had never felt more powerful.

I woke to warmth—pure, golden warmth, the kind that seeps into your bones and makes you forget there’s a world beyond the bed.

The light filtered in soft and honeyed through the curtains, painting lazy stripes across the sheets and bare skin. My legs were tangled with someone else’s—longer, muscled, warm. A hand cupped my breast with unmistakable possessiveness, another splayed across my stomach, and one of them—definitely Nate—had his face buried in the crook of my neck, breathing steady and hot.

I didn’t know where I ended and they began.

And I didn’t want to.

I shifted slightly, the sheet slipping down my bare chest. Bob’s hand moved with me, tightening his grip on my waist, a sleepy growl rumbling from his throat.

“You’re awake,” he mumbled, voice thick with sleep.

I hummed. “Barely.”

“Don’t move yet,” Nate whispered behind me, kissing the curve of my shoulder. “I’m not done dreaming about you.”

Ace’s voice came next, low and amused from the other side of the bed. “Pretty sure you weren’t dreaming, brother.”

I turned my head to look at him. He was lying on his side, hand under his head, messy curls falling into his eyes, that lazy smirk tugging at his lips. “You were making noises like a man who got everything he wanted.”

Nate snorted into my neck. “Can you blame me?”

“You all were noisy,” I teased, stretching like a cat between them. My breasts brushed against Bob’s chest, and I felt his cock twitch against my thigh. “I think the whole damn resort knows how thoroughly I was ruined last night.”

Bob grinned and kissed my collarbone. “Good. Let them know you’re taken.”

Ace reached for me, trailing a finger down my exposed thigh. “Taken. Worshiped. Devoured. We could add a few more adjectives.”

“Ruined,” Nate murmured, his hand sliding from my waist down to my hip. “And still so fucking beautiful.”

My body warmed all over again, that slow, delicious heat curling between my legs. They were looking at me like I was the only thing that mattered, like there wasn’t a wedding in a few hours, like the world outside didn’t exist. And maybe, right now, it didn’t.

I was about to say something smart—something sassy and smug and maybe a little dirty—when Bob rolled me onto my back, settling between my legs without breaking the softness of the moment.

“You slept like a goddess,” he said, eyes drinking me in. “But I missed being inside you.”

I gasped as he ground his hips against me, hard cock sliding against my slick folds, already wet and wanting. “Jesus, Bob…”

“You feel that?” he asked, voice low, teasing. “You’re soaked. From just waking up beside us.”

Nate propped himself on one elbow and leaned over to kiss my breast, his tongue flicking over the nipple until it hardened beneath his mouth. “She’s always like this in the morning. Hot and soft and aching.”

Ace knelt at the end of the bed, eyes on my center like I was breakfast. “Let me have a taste before you fuck her, Bob. Please.”

Bob looked down at me, waiting for my answer. “What do you say, sweetheart?”

“God, yes,” I moaned, thighs already spreading.

Ace’s hands gripped the backs of my knees and lifted them over his shoulders. His mouth was warm and wet and perfect, tongue circling and then lashing my clit, sending bolts of heat through me that had my back arching off the bed.

“Fuck,” I whimpered, hips grinding into his mouth as he devoured me like a man starved.

“You like that?” Bob murmured into my ear. “Being worshiped first thing in the morning?”

Nate kissed my lips, then down to my neck, murmuring against my skin, “She loves it. Look how she trembles. Look at how good she is for us.”

When Ace slipped a finger inside me, I cried out, the pleasure already unbearable. He added another, curling perfectly as his tongue never stopped its delicious torture.

“She’s gonna come,” he said, voice muffled between my thighs. “She’s almost there.”

“Let her,” Bob said, kissing my temple. “Let her fall apart for us.”

I shattered. Shaking and gasping, hips bucking against Ace’s mouth as he held me through every wave of it. He only pulled away when I was panting, limp, and twitching.

Bob kissed me again, softer now. “Good girl.”

But I wasn’t done.

Chapter 7

POV: Daniella

I reached between us and wrapped my fingers around Bob’s cock. “Your turn.”

He groaned as I guided him inside me—slow, deep, grounding.

“Fuck,” he breathed. “You’re so wet, baby. So tight around me.”

He started to move, slow at first, savoring every inch. Nate kissed me, Ace’s mouth was on my breast, and Bob filled me with every stroke like he belonged there.

And maybe he did.

They all did.

It didn’t last long—morning sex never did. Not when we were already so wound up, so full of need.

“I’m close,” Bob warned, hips stuttering. “Gonna fill you again. Gonna claim you.”

“Yes,” I gasped. “Please. I want it.”

He came with a growl, body pressed flush to mine, pulsing deep inside me.

Ace was next, rolling me onto my side and lifting my leg over his hip. He slid in with a moan, and Nate kissed my shoulder as I gasped and welcomed him.

“You want us both again, don’t you?” Nate whispered in my ear. “Greedy girl.”

“Please,” I whimpered. “Don’t make me beg.”

“You’re already begging,” Ace groaned, thrusting hard. “And you’re so fucking perfect when you do.”

They took their time. They made me beg. Made me feel. And when I came again, clenching around them, moaning their names, the sun had risen fully and the room smelled of sex and sweat and home.

Eventually, we collapsed in a tangle of limbs and sheets, skin warm and sticky, hearts pounding in sync.

“I don’t want to get up,” I murmured.

“You don’t have to,” Bob said, nuzzling my neck. “We’ll carry you.”

Ace chuckled. “But maybe let’s shower first. We can’t have you showing up to the wedding smelling like sex.”

Nate pulled the sheet over us all and kissed my shoulder again. “She should show up smelling like victory.”

I smiled into the crook of his neck, my body sated and my heart full. “Then let’s make it one hell of a victory lap.”

“Shower,” Ace said, sitting up and raking a hand through his damp curls. “Or we’ll be late, and you’ll walk into the reception smelling like an orgy.”

I laughed weakly from where I was sprawled across Bob’s chest. “You say that like it’s a bad thing.”

“Your hair’s a mess, sweetheart,” Bob murmured, fingers brushing it off my cheek. “You look like a goddess after a war.”

“I feel like I’ve been conquered.”

“Pretty sure you conquered us,” Nate said, already climbing out of bed, gloriously naked, stretching with a yawn that made every muscle in his back ripple. “Shower before I drag you back into bed and make us all even later.”

I grumbled but let Bob pull me up gently. The sheets clung to my skin, and I winced slightly at the soreness blooming between my legs. But it was a good soreness. A reminder of the way they’d loved me.

Possessed me.

Worshiped me.

“Do we even fit in that shower?” I asked as we stumbled into the bathroom.

Ace flicked the lights on, revealing a luxurious walk-in shower enclosed in glass and marble. “We’ll make it work.”

He turned on the water, letting it warm while I leaned against the cool counter, catching my breath. Nate came up behind me, wrapping his arms around my waist and kissing my neck softly.

“You okay?” he asked, voice gentle now, the heat of the earlier hours softened into concern.

“Perfect,” I whispered. “Just overwhelmed—in the best way.”

He kissed my temple. “Good. We’ll take it slow.”

Bob and Ace stepped into the steam first, muscles glistening under the spray. When I joined them, the warmth of the water poured down my back, making me gasp. Hands immediately reached for me—Ace pulling me to his chest, Bob behind me, pressing a kiss between my shoulder blades.

The water was hot, but their hands were hotter. Soapy and slow, exploring every curve of me like they had all morning to memorize the terrain.

“You smell like us,” Bob growled against my neck, voice low and feral. “Like sex. Like sweat. Like mine.”

I whimpered, pressing back into his chest, my skin slick and hypersensitive. Nate stepped forward, switching places with Ace, his eyes burning as his fingers slipped between my thighs.

“Still sensitive,” he murmured against my jaw, kissing me slowly, deliberately. “Still wet.”

“You’re going to kill me,” I gasped, hips twitching at his touch.

“We’ll take turns,” Ace said behind me, voice thick with hunger.

Bob’s hands slid down my hips, anchoring me, as Nate knelt under the spray. Water streamed over his broad shoulders and down the sharp lines of his jaw. He looked up at me like I was divine.

Then his tongue flicked across my clit—slow, knowing.

“Oh God,” I moaned, one hand bracing against the marble wall, the other diving into his hair. “I thought this was a shower, not another round…”

“You’re too delicious to resist,” Nate said, smirking, before dragging his tongue up my folds again, nipping the inside of my thigh.

“She tastes like all of us,” he added, eyes gleaming.

That did something to me—something primal. The need pulsing in my veins was molten, coiling, tightening with every flick of his tongue. My moans echoed off the tile, the sound of water and heavy breaths filling the room like a symphony.

“Come, baby girl,” Nate murmured against my skin, pressing a soft kiss to my inner thigh. “Come for us.”

I shattered—loudly, completely. My hands clutched his hair, hips bucking on his mouth as I cried out. The pleasure rolled over me in violent waves, leaving my thighs shaking and my heart thundering.

Before I could collapse, strong arms caught me.

“Come here,” Ace said, lifting me with ease and pinning my back to the cool marble wall. The chill made me shiver, but then his mouth claimed mine—hot, deep, possessive—and I melted into him.

Bob and Nate crowded in again, their hands everywhere, sliding over me, over each other. Their touches were teasing, reverent—worship disguised as indulgence.

They turned me slowly, bodies guiding mine like choreography. Water continued to pour over us, steam rising around our tangled limbs.

Ace moved behind me, his cock thick and hard, gliding along the curve of my ass. Nate was in front, his mouth devouring mine again as Bob leaned in, his tongue flicking over my breasts, sucking until I arched.

“I need…” I whimpered.

“You’ve got us,” Nate whispered, stroking my cheek, then kissed me like it was a promise.

Ace aligned himself and pushed in, slow, thick, making me gasp into Nate’s mouth.

Then Nate moved, guiding himself into my pussy while Ace filled me from behind. I was surrounded, impaled, held between them, and every nerve in my body screamed with need.

They began to thrust—deep, deliberate. Not fast, not yet. Just enough to make me lose my mind. My moans turned breathless, needy, desperate.

Bob stood beside us, watching, panting, his hand moving between my legs.

“Fuck, baby girl, I’m close,” Nate said, voice ragged.

“So come. Come inside me,” I whispered, looking him dead in the eyes.

“Me too,” Ace groaned behind me, hips moving faster now. “Fuck, I can’t—”

“I want you to come with me,” I gasped, hips moving helplessly between them. That was all it took.

I came hard, moaning their names, my body clenching around them. Nate cursed and spilled into me, his face buried in my neck, and Ace followed with a groan, his grip bruising on my hips as he emptied himself.

We stayed like that for a moment, panting, trembling, the water washing away the sweat, but not the heat.

Then they pulled back, slowly, gently, and Bob stepped forward, eyes dark with hunger, a soft smirk on his lips.

“Still have time for me, beautiful?” he asked, brushing a wet strand of hair from my face.

“Always,” I said, and opened my arms.

He stepped in and lifted me effortlessly, wrapping my legs around his waist as he slid inside me with one smooth thrust. I gasped—still sensitive, still pulsing—but needing him just as much.

He moved with reverence, his thrusts deep and loving, lips brushing mine between every moan.

“I won’t last,” I whispered.

“You don’t have to,” he said, voice shaking. “Just feel me.”

“Will you come with me?” I asked, breath catching.

“Always.”

His pace grew erratic, our mouths clashing, bodies straining. And then we were both coming again, clinging to each other as the water poured down, sealing the moment like a kiss.

By the time he lowered me back to my feet, I was boneless, trembling, and glowing.

Held.

Loved.

Ruined—in the best possible way.

And it wasn’t even breakfast yet.

Chapter 8

POV: Daniella

The four of us came down freshly showered and changed, the scent of citrus soap and clean clothes replacing the heady mix of sex and heat that had filled the room upstairs. I wore a soft linen dress that barely touched my thighs, and my hair was still damp at the ends. Bob had offered to dry it for me, but I kissed him instead and promised later.

The breakfast hall was already bustling, the long table filled with fruit, pastries, eggs, and espresso cups that clinked against delicate saucers. The family was seated in a loose arrangement, tension humming just beneath the surface.

Charlotte sat near the end of the table, spine too straight, fingers tight around her coffee mug. Her lips were pressed together in a forced smile that cracked the moment her eyes met Bob’s. I saw my lover as the protector he truly is—softening for his sister.

He was at her side in seconds.

“Where’s Matthew?” Bob asked quietly, crouching beside her chair.

Charlotte shook her head once, her voice small. “He said it’s bad luck to see the bride before the wedding.”

Bob’s brows furrowed. “Mom said that, right?”

She gave a stiff nod, and her eyes glistened for a second before she blinked fast. “She is driving me crazy,” Charlotte murmured.

“I knew it,” Bob muttered under his breath, then took her hand in his. “Hey. Look at me. You love him?”

“Yes,” she whispered, her voice cracking.

“Then nothing else matters. Not them,” he said, nodding toward their mother, who was already pursing her lips in disapproval. “Not this circus. You two are what matters. Okay?”

Charlotte gave him a small, watery laugh. “Why are you always the soft one?”

“Don’t tell anyone. Ruins my image.”

I walked over quietly, laying a gentle hand on Charlotte’s shoulder. “You’re holding so much tension in your chest and neck. Can I show you something?”

She blinked at me, surprised. “You can tell?”

“I can feel it,” I said gently. “You’re practically vibrating. It’ll just take a minute, I promise.”

She hesitated for only a second before nodding. I guided her to one of the lounge chairs just off to the side and had her sit back. I slid behind her and placed my hands at her shoulders.

“Breathe in through your nose,” I said, pressing my thumbs lightly into the muscles around her traps. “And out through your mouth. Good…”

I worked through a short series of myofascial release movements, feeling the tension melt under my hands. Her shoulders slowly lowered, her breathing evened out, and her fingers unclenched from the armrests.

When I finished, she turned around, eyes wide and grateful. “That was… amazing. I actually feel like I can move again.”

“You’ll be glowing for your wedding photos now,” I smiled.

She pulled me into a tight hug. “Thank you, Dani.”

I glanced toward Bob, who was watching with soft eyes. He mouthed, thank you, and I gave a little nod.

Back at the breakfast table, the atmosphere had softened. Charlotte’s color had returned, and she was laughing lightly at something Guinevere said—though her sister’s attention wasn’t exactly on her.

Guinevere was seated across from Nate, her eyes dancing as she spoke, fingers twirling a strand of her chestnut hair. She leaned in just a little too close when she passed him the jam.

Nate didn’t say much. He just watched her, polite but distant—and every few moments, his gaze flicked to me. Eyes like silent messages. She could try… but I’m yours.

It made my belly warm. My smile stretch. I sipped my espresso and licked a bit of foam from my lip without breaking eye contact. Nate’s jaw ticked.

Bob took the seat beside me, still visibly touched from the moment with Charlotte. He placed his hand on my thigh under the table, fingers stroking lazily.

Ace leaned in from the other side, nabbing a croissant from my plate. “You gonna eat this?”

“You’re lucky I love you,” I murmured, just for him to hear.

“Good. Because I love carbs. And you too, of course,” Ace whispered back with a grin.

Bob smirked. “Actually, I think she needs more carbs after all the effort this morning. And in the shower. And last night.”

I bit my lip, smiling into my cup.

“Are we counting individual orgasms now?” I teased, arching a brow. “Because I might need a spreadsheet.”

“I’m great with spreadsheets,” Bob said smoothly, sliding his hand a little higher.

“Of course you are,” Ace muttered. “The man alphabetizes his sock drawer.”

Nate, sipping his coffee across from us, just shook his head with a quiet smile. But when our eyes met, the heat there was unmistakable.

The room was filled with light conversation and laughter.

It was soft. Normal. Like we could pretend for a moment that we weren’t holding secrets behind every glance, every touch.

The sun spilled through the wide windows, warming our skin, our plates, our hearts.

And for that breakfast, just that one morning—we were whole.

We made our way back to the room wrapped in lazy smiles and warm touches, that rare breakfast still blooming in our chests like sunlight. Bob’s hand stayed on my lower back the entire walk, Ace kept bumping my shoulder with his, and Nate’s thumb brushed mine with every swing of our hands. We were tangled in each other, even in motion.

I felt… whole.

The hallway was quiet. A sliver of golden morning stretched through the corridor window, catching the soft shimmer of my linen dress.

Bob slid the keycard into the door and pushed it open with a little hum, like he was about to whistle some old jazz tune—

Then froze.

Ace bumped into him, stopping short. “What—”

And then I saw it.

Chapter 9

POV: Daniella

Our room was exactly as we left it, except for one thing.

My dress. My gown for the ceremony. The silky, pale champagne one I’d carefully laid out on the bed with all the giddy reverence it deserved—was ripped down the bodice.

Not just torn. Destroyed. A deliberate, jagged slice that ran from the shoulder to the waist. The fabric was frayed, the hem stomped on.

And there, on the chair near the window, lay one of the decorative scissors from the welcome bouquet.

My stomach twisted into a knot.

“Dani.” Bob’s voice cracked like thunder. “Don’t come in here yet.”

But I was already inside, already staring at the ruin. The silence behind me buzzed, sharp and mean.

“What the fuck,” Ace growled.

Nate bent over the gown, careful not to touch it. His eyes scanned the room, cold and calculating. “This wasn’t clumsy. This was intentional.”

“Who had access to the rooms?” Bob’s voice was steel now. “This is a private floor. No staff keycard opens our suite. Not unless someone gave them access.”

“They didn’t take anything,” I said softly, walking forward despite Bob’s arm trying to hold me back. “Just the dress.”

Because that’s what this was. A message.

“This is about her,” Ace said. “Clara.”

Bob’s jaw flexed so hard I could hear his teeth grind.

“Your family owns this whole damn place,” Nate said, already pulling out his phone. “That means every access code, every override—your father controls it. Your mother too. Your sisters, maybe. But they were all with us.”

“And Clara wasn’t.” Bob’s voice turned raw. “Where the fuck was she during breakfast? Was she even there?”

“No,” I whispered. “I didn’t see her.”

Bob slammed a fist against the wall. “I swear to God, if this is her—”

“Hey.” I grabbed his shirt, tugged him around to face me. “You don’t need to kill anyone yet, okay?”

His eyes softened the second they met mine, but the fury still hummed under his skin.

“Look at me,” I said. “She wanted a reaction. She wanted me to melt down. To cry. Maybe cancel the whole thing.”

“I will cancel the whole thing if it keeps you safe—”

“No, you won’t,” I said with a slow smile. “Because I’m still going. And I’m wearing that damn dress.”

Ace blinked. “Dani, baby—”

“I’m not letting her take this from me.” I walked over, scooping up the ruined silk. It was heart-wrenching, yes, but as I held it up and twisted it around my body, an idea began to form. “She gave me a slit.”

Nate raised a brow. “A slit?”

I turned to them, threading the dress around me as if I was already designing it in my mind. “The tear is clean on one side. If I pin the shoulder and cut away this part here…” I tugged at the lining. “It becomes an asymmetrical slit. And that makes it hotter.”

Ace whistled, slow and low. “You’re serious.”

“Dead serious,” I said. “Help me?”

The three of them moved at once.

Bob went to the bathroom to grab safety pins and scissors. Ace got on his knees in front of me to adjust the new hem with surgical focus. Nate stood behind me, gently tugging the bodice into shape, murmuring quiet praise into my ear.

“Smart girl,” he whispered. “Brilliant girl.”

“Hot damn,” Ace muttered, leaning back to admire the slit that now ran clean up my thigh. “This is criminally sexy.”

“You’re glowing,” Bob said, stepping in to help pin the shoulder. “God, Dani, you’re turning sabotage into runway.”

“You always rise,” Nate murmured, lips brushing the shell of my ear.

I looked at myself in the mirror once the last pin was in place. The dress was edgier now, the high slit revealing nearly to my hip, the neckline dipped from the adjustment. It wasn’t what I planned.

It was better.

I turned to them, slowly, letting the silk catch the light and cascade along my leg like liquid fire.

“Well?” I asked.

They stared like I was the center of the damn universe.

Bob walked up first. “You are… a fucking goddess.” He kissed my collarbone reverently.

Ace followed, running a hand down my thigh where the slit revealed golden skin. “Remind me to worship you properly later.”

Nate didn’t speak. He just cupped my face, kissed me once—long, soft, and full of everything we were.

“Let’s go show them what they didn’t break,” I said, breathless.

And together, we walked out of that room like we owned the place.

Because we did.

Because they loved me. And that love made me unstoppable.

The sun was high but kind—soft and golden, not too hot yet—when we stepped outside the resort and made our way toward the ceremony garden.

It felt surreal.

Lush green arches, bursts of white roses and baby’s breath, sunlight flickering off champagne flutes being set on tables. Elegant guests were gathering near the white chairs and flower-laced altar ahead. The music hadn’t started yet, but it was close. Close enough that butterflies started dancing in my stomach.

We were close to our seats. I walked toward one side while they headed to the other, and just as I turned around—I saw them.

Of course, we’d gotten ready together. I lived with them. I knew exactly what they looked like.

But somehow… I still couldn’t get used to it. Couldn’t stop the way my heart kicked when I saw them like this. Now they were walking toward me from across the lawn like a dream I’d once had.

Bob. Nate. Ace.

Three tuxedos. Three men. All mine.

Nate walked with that easy, open stride of his, his brown curls neatly styled but still a little rebellious—just like him. His warm brown eyes caught the sunlight like gold-flecked honey, and when he smiled at me, I swore I felt the earth tilt.

Bob came next, taller than most in the crowd, his muscles practically testing the limits of his perfectly tailored jacket. His blond hair was brushed back, accentuating the cut of his jaw and the strength in every line of him. He looked like royalty and trouble all at once. And those hazel eyes? They found me instantly.

Then Ace.

He was last, but he always moved like he was in control of every room he entered. His presence alone stole the air from my lungs—tall, dark hair sleek and sculpted, those impossible blue eyes catching fire in the sun. Commanding. Magnetic. A thunderstorm in a black suit.

My pulse fluttered as they came to me.

I couldn’t help it—I whispered the thought that bloomed hot and possessive in my chest.

“You’re all so handsome… and you’re all mine.”

Nate grinned, dipping his head until our noses brushed. “Say it again.”

Bob’s voice was a low murmur near my ear. “Please do.”

Ace just chuckled, stepping close enough that his shoulder brushed mine. “Claim us, sweetheart.”

“I don’t need to,” I said with a soft smirk. “Everyone already knows.”

And they did. Heads were turning. Whispers floated across the grass like petals in the breeze. Let them talk.

Because as we walked down the center aisle, arm in arm, my dress flowing with every step like silk lightning and the three of them flanking me like dark princes—I felt invincible.

Then I saw her.

Clara.

Standing a few rows back with two of Bob’s cousins, drink in hand.

Her reaction when she saw me was instant. Her jaw clenched. Her eyes narrowed. The flinch was subtle, but I saw it.

She hadn’t expected me to come.

She’d expected me to fold. Break. Hide.

Big mistake.

“Give me a second,” I said, touching Bob’s wrist lightly.

His eyes snapped to mine. “Dani…”

“I’ve got this.”

I walked to her with calm steps. I didn’t rush. I didn’t puff up or play nice.

I smiled.

“Clara,” I said lightly.

She blinked at me. “Oh. Hi.”

“I just wanted to thank you,” I said. “For the dress modification. Turned out better than I expected.”

Her smile faltered. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Sure you don’t.” I tilted my head slightly. “Just a friendly reminder: I’ve faced some pretty bad things before. Psychotic ex-girlfriends?” I lowered my voice. “You’re not even in the top ten.”

Her face froze. A perfect mask cracking.

“So maybe sit back, sip your champagne, and stay the hell out of my way.”

I didn’t wait for her response.

I turned, walked back to my men, and found them watching me like I’d just conquered a kingdom.

“You are so hot when you’re terrifying,” Ace said, wide-eyed.

“I’m so proud of you,” Bob muttered, pressing a kiss to my temple.

Nate just took my hand and held it over his heart. “Damn right, baby. That’s our girl.”

I grinned, heart racing, and took a deep breath.

The coordinator started calling people into place. The ceremony was moments away.

“Time to behave,” I said, smoothing the dress down my leg with a wink. “At least until the kiss.”

Bob growled softly. “You’re gonna kill me.”

“Later,” I whispered.

Then we took our seats—together—and the wedding began.

Chapter 10

POV: Daniella

The ceremony was stunning.

Sunlight filtered through the leaves above the altar, scattering gold across the aisle like nature’s own confetti. The gentle strum of a string quartet filled the air as Charlotte stepped forward, radiant in her gown, her smile trembling with the weight of joy.

Everything was soft, elegant, and dreamlike.

I sat between Nate and Bob, with Ace beside them, our hands resting in little secret touches on knees and thighs, hidden by the folds of my dress. No one said anything. No one had to. We were in sync—breathing in unison, hearts steady together, watching love be spoken out loud and sealed with a kiss.

For a moment, I forgot about Clara. About the whispers. About the tension buried in Bob’s family’s eyes every time they glanced our way.

For a moment, I just felt… whole.

After the ceremony, we moved to the reception garden, which looked like something out of a fairy tale. Lanterns were strung between the trees, flickering like stars. Tables shimmered with crystal and gold. The band had started playing light jazz, and the dance floor was already alive with the clink of heels and bursts of laughter.

It was warm and full of life. People laughed too loud, drank too much, hugged too long. For a while, I did the same—letting Nate pull me into a ridiculous dance, letting Bob feed me a bite of cake, watching Ace charm an older woman so thoroughly I was pretty sure she forgot her husband was standing right next to her.

Then Charlotte came over.

She looked breathtaking and exhausted in equal measure, heels already dangling from one hand, a flute of champagne in the other. Her hair had loosened slightly from the ceremony, and she gave me a knowing, grateful smile.

“Hey,” she said, leaning close so only I could hear. “Thank you again for that myofascial work earlier. I honestly don’t think I could’ve walked down the aisle without limping—and with my shoulders like that? No way.”

I smiled. “It was my pleasure.”

Charlotte took a sip and glanced around, then back at me with a smirk. “Just a heads up—if you marry Bob, you’re gonna need a hell of a lot more therapy. And maybe some pills to face this family.”

I laughed at first. But then I didn’t.

Because something about the way she said marry hit me square in the chest. That word. That idea.

Marriage.

I’d dreamed of it once—lace and vows and forever promises—but now? Now I lived in something real and messy and beautiful and… unconventional. I didn’t know how to wrap a white dress around this.

Could I even marry them?

Would I have to choose?

Would one wear a ring and the others just… stand beside?

Would they want that?

The thought twisted something deep inside me.

Charlotte’s eyes scanned my face. “Shit. Sorry,” she said quickly, her voice softening. “I don’t know if you guys even talk about marriage. I didn’t mean to—”

“It’s okay,” I said, forcing a smile. “Actually… I’ve thought about it. I want it.”

Her brows lifted in surprise. “Really?”

I nodded. The words felt heavier, more real as I spoke them. “Yeah. I just… never talked about it with Bob.”

I said Bob, but I thought about them.

Charlotte hesitated, then said, “I don’t mean to pry, but… your relationship with Bob—his friends don’t… get in the way?”

My stomach tightened. I swallowed hard.

“Oh… no. They’re great,” I said after a beat. “They… don’t get in the way. There’s no problem with it.”

Her eyes widened slightly, but she didn’t push. Just nodded, slowly, like she was still trying to figure out what that meant.

Before either of us could say more, Bob appeared at my side, hand outstretched, his hazel eyes bright.

“May I steal you for a dance?”

Gratefully, I slipped my hand into his. “Please.”

He guided me onto the dance floor, one hand on my waist, the other curled around mine like I was the only thing anchoring him to the earth.

“You okay?” he asked softly.

“I am now.”

He smiled. “You were amazing earlier. I wanted to kiss you in front of everyone.”

I grinned. “Then why didn’t you?”

He leaned in, his breath hot against my ear. “Because I wouldn’t have stopped.”

The song swelled around us, and we moved in easy rhythm—swaying, turning, his body warm and steady against mine.

I looked at his eyes—my dream in front of me. At least a third of it.

When the song ended, Nate was already stepping in, hand extended, that boyish charm lighting up his face. “My turn.”

Bob gave me a soft kiss on the lips before letting go.

With Nate, the energy shifted—playful, magnetic. He spun me once before pulling me close, our foreheads touching as we laughed.

“You look like a dream,” he murmured.

“You feel like home.”

His lips brushed my cheek, an inch from the real target—my mouth—stealing a second between beats.

A secret sealed in music.

And when the next song began, I turned—and found Ace already waiting.

He didn’t ask. He just pulled me into his arms like he was claiming me all over again.

“Dance with me, sweetheart,” he said against my ear, voice like velvet and sin.

His movements were slow, deliberate. Every step a silent vow. Every breath a promise.

“I want to kiss you so much…” he murmured low, just for me. “And to do more stuff.”

In his arms, I remembered:

Maybe we couldn’t get married the way others did.

Maybe the world wouldn’t ever understand this.

But this love—this dance—it was real.

It was ours.

The music had shifted into something slower, smoother. Laughter rippled like wind across the garden as couples swayed and flirted under the lanterns.

I was halfway through a polite conversation with one of Bob’s aunts when I heard that laugh—high, charming, a little too breathy. I turned.

Guinevere.

In a pale blue slip dress that hugged her like a secret, she was standing close to Nate. Too close. Her hand brushed his bicep like she needed help balancing. She was giggling. He was smiling—that smile. The one that made me melt the first time he used it on me.

My stomach twisted.

I wasn’t stupid. Guinevere was beautiful. Blonde, poised, wickedly charming in a way that seemed effortless. She leaned in and whispered something in Nate’s ear, and his lips parted in a grin that made my chest tighten.

I told myself it was nothing. Nate was friendly. Nate was polite.

But Guinevere wasn’t just being friendly. She was hunting.

And Nate wasn’t exactly running.

I sipped my wine and tried to listen to Bob’s aunt ramble about wedding favors. But my eyes kept drifting back. Guinevere touched his chest. Laughed again. Nate leaned in—maybe to hear her better over the music—but that little part of my brain didn’t care about logic.

She’s touching what’s mine.

I hated the thought. I hated how possessive it sounded.

But I felt it all the same.