The Companion Love Trap: A Fake Dating Vacation Rom-Com

Chapter 11

I hadn’t slept well,tossing and turning all night as thoughts of sexy men plagued me. I’d given up halfway through and spent some time with my favorite vibrator, but even that hadn’t done the trick. When the batteries died, I called down to the front desk to get some more, hoping a hot bellboy would bring them to me. But alas, Gertrude was pushing seventy and didn’t seem to have the physical aptitude to keep up with me.

That and she’d turned me down.

If the idea of boycotting dick and instituting a cleansing binge didn’t horrify me so much, I’d call this cruise the ‘no fucking zone.’ But since that wasn’t going to happen, I needed an emotional condom to keep any feelings from catching.

Skipping breakfast with the guys, I spent the morning taking time for myself, knowing it might be the last moment of ‘me time’ I’d get. Once I stepped out of this room, I’d be a girlfriend, albeit fake; I’d still need to bring my A-game.

Companion Rule #5—fake it at all costs.

Zipping my last bag, I took a deep breath and headed to the lobby. The hotel coordinated with the cruise, meaning I could leave my luggage with the attendant, and would only need my purse with the essentials for now.

I spotted the guys on the terrace, Jace laughing at something as he told Kieran a story. I watched them together, enjoying the secret peek into their lives. They were two of the most gorgeous men I’d come across, and it wouldn’t be a hardship to spend the week with them.

The clock behind me chimed, reminding me it was time to quit hiding. I had a job to do, and if there was one thing I did well, it was to give everything I had. I didn’t know how to do anything less. Hello, trauma. Focusing on doing my job, I pasted on a smile as I sauntered toward the guys, the cute sundress sashaying around my legs. Jace spotted me first, standing to greet me.

“Good morning, fellas.”

“Morning, Firecracker. You look incredible as ever,” he said, kissing my cheek and pulling me into a hug. His hands smoothed over my body, leaving goosebumps in their wake. The man did not play fair.

“Everly,” Kieran greeted with a nod, his blue eyes trailing over me, too. Smiling, I stepped closer to him.

“Practice, Kieran. Remember? You need to greet me like Jace did, at the least. But most boyfriends are a little more enthused to see their girlfriends.”

“Right.”

His eyes widened, and he took a deep breath and moved toward me. If he wasn’t so cute being slightly petrified, I’d feel bad for forcing him to do this. But since I enjoyed his discomfort, I stepped into his arms and wrapped mine around his waist to help him out. His lips touched my forehead in a gentle caress and had me closing my eyes before I could stop myself. Damn shivers.

Why was that so sweet and hot at the same time?

There was no way he knew that spot was endearing and probably kissed me there since it was the closest to his height. But holy moly, I’d have to prepare myself for that next time if he was going to be dropping forehead kisses as currency.

I squeezed his waist once more, dropping my arm after a few seconds and stepping back. Jace eyed us carefully, a soft look on his face I didn’t understand.

“Ready? We have early boarding, and our luggage will be taken to the cabins. We can tour the ship and get the lay of the land before grabbing something to eat,” Jace stated.

“Sounds perfect. Lead the way.”

I wrapped my arm around Kieran’s, his body tensing before he let out a breath. He gave me a nod before he took off. The three of us headed toward the ship docked at the end of the pier. The closer we drew toward it, the sheer size of the vessel became apparent. Gulping, my eyes scanned over it as I took it in. Wow! This was some high-class cruise if the ship was anything to go by.

“Good morning, Mr. Byrne and guests. Welcome abroad, the Brilliance.”

My head swiveled back and forth as I took everything in. Jace nudged me when it was time to show our passports and scan our tickets. Oh, right.

“Welcome, Beverly Carlisle. Bon Voyage,” the attendant said.

“Beverly?” Jace asked, giving me an odd look.

“It’s Everly,” I told the attendant, ignoring Jace. “The B is silent.”

“Of course, Miss Everly. I’ll have them change your lanyard. It acts as the key to your cabin, access to meals, and any activities you wish to do. Use this one for now until they can bring your new one to your cabin,” she explained, not missing a beat at my name.

“Thank you,” I said, taking my passport and the lanyard she handed me.

Jace looked at me expectantly, but I pretended like he wasn’t waiting for an explanation and took Kieran’s hand. Again, he only tensed slightly, getting more accustomed to my touch. I wondered how other parts of his body would respond?

“How much trouble would I be in if I called you Beverly?” Jace teased.

Giving him the cold shoulder, I turned to Kieran. “I didn’t expect the ship to have a mosquito problem. I didn’t pack any bug spray.”

Kieran glanced over my shoulder and then back to me. “I’m sure there’s some in the gift shop,” he said, surprising a chuckle out of me.

“I knew I liked you,” I whispered, squeezing his arm and nuzzling my face against him. Damn, he smelled just as delicious as yesterday.

Kieran grinned, his cheeks flushing as we continued to walk and ignore Jace. He became more irritating the longer we disregarded him, making me want to keep doing it. It seemed Kieran was like-minded.

We’d toured a few decks and discovered a theater, dance club, two restaurants, a spa, and several shops. There weren’t many people on board yet, which made it easy to navigate the expansive ship as we explored. The dance club reminded me of Howlers and the two men I’d left behind—Cruz and Phantom. A pang shot out at the thought of not seeing them, and I knew I’d need to double glove my heart.

“Would you like to grab a drink?” Kieran asked, pointing to a coffee shop.

“Sounds divine,” I said eagerly, wanting the distraction from men I shouldn’t be thinking about. Jace had fallen quiet several minutes ago, and I peeked over at him, discovering the usual sunshine guy pouting. It seemed Jace didn’t do well with being ignored. Deciding his punishment was over, I touched his arm.

“Jace, do you want anything?” I asked. His head flew up, his eyes meeting mine, and I saw the vulnerability there. Well, fuck. Why did he have to look so cute with his big sad eyes?

“I’d love one, Everly.”

Smiling, I kissed his cheek as I stepped up into line, pretending my heart raced at the promise of caffeine and nothing more.

“You didn’t ask what we want,” Jace said, some of his playfulness returning. He crossed his arms, lifting a brow in a challenge.

“It’s my super skill,” I replied, winking over my shoulder.

Kieran shrugged, happy to stay out of the line, and pulled Jace back. I took a second to take a deep breath and shake out my hand like a 19th-century lady-in-waiting. Kieran’s touch had sent permanent goosebumps and shivers through me.

When it was my turn to order, I listed off three drinks and the names that accompanied them. I grinned as I waited, eager to see their faces when I handed them their beverages.

“Here you go,” the barista said, pushing a tray over. I grabbed it and returned to the guys, trying to hide my grin as I neared.

“Alright, Firecracker. Wow us with your skill.”

“Here you go.”

A wicked grin spread across my face as I sipped my iced coffee. I didn’t trust anyone else to foam my milk just how I liked it. Plus, it was hotter than balls out here. Ice all the way.

“Why does this say ‘Trash Panda’ on it, Firecracker?” Jace asked, lifting his brow.

I rolled my eyes at him, secretly pleased Kieran had tried his without complaint. He was more easygoing than I’d expected, contradicting his grumpy exterior that I now saw as a defense. He nodded in appreciation and turned his cup and frowned at the title.

“Timon?” he asked, his forehead creasing.

“Yup. You’re tall, lean, and shy, like a meerkat. Fit better than Bambi. Did I get your drink right?” I asked. Jace snorted at my description, but Kieran took a second to digest it and then met my eyes.

“Spot on. I’m not into anything fancy.” I smiled as I took another sip, glad I pinged his Americano correctly.

“You made me a coffee before. So I’m not trusting your skills as magic,” Jace said, still frowning at the name.

“Take a sip, and I’ll tell you why, big baby,” I said, daring him with my eyes.

Sighing, he took a sip, his eyes widening in surprise as the liquid met his tongue. “This isn’t a cappuccino.”

“Nope. I figured you ordered that because you thought it made you sound cool, but really you’re a Caramel Macchiato type of guy. As for the name, you’re mischievous and curious, often trying to pull one over on others. Yet you’re fiercely protective of what’s yours. It fits.” I shrugged, taking a sip.

Jace eyed me, his brain processing something as he continued to stare. “Fine, but I refuse to be called anything that starts with trash. Surely there’s a cooler raccoon name?”

“That would mean you’re cool,” Kieran quipped, taking me by surprise. Laughing, I snorted, almost spilling my coffee.

“Maybe. But you’ll have to earn it.” I winked, enjoying the flirting.

Jace growled, his hands reaching out to tickle my sides. I dodged, barely missing his fingertips before he gave chase. Giggling, I hid behind Kieran, using him as a shield. To my surprise, he allowed me, giving his best friend his grumpy face and crossing his arms to ward him off.

“Not fair,” Jace hissed, lunging around one side of Kieran. I stuck out my tongue, laughing as I tried not to focus on how amazing Kieran’s ass felt pressed into my belly. Buns of steel, I tell ya!

“Mr. Byrne, is that you?” a voice asked, freezing Kieran.

He turned, his body rigid, and I watched as he morphed into the man I’d met yesterday. I hadn’t realized how much he’d thawed toward me until I saw him revert to this version of himself. The no-nonsense businessman with no personality.

“Mrs. Combs,” he greeted, not saying anything further. Jace spun on his heels, a charming smile on his face.

“Jodie! Looking beautiful as ever. How are the grandkids?” he asked, kissing her hand. I slipped around to Kieran’s side and took his hand, hoping to give him courage. I could tell how much he hated this part of running a company. It also gave me some insight into how he and Jace operated and why it seemed like he deferred to the other man at times. Jace just had that way about him.

The woman in question gushed to Jace like an old friend; her smile was warm and friendly. Her eyes met mine a second later, and she stumbled over her words in surprise.

“Apologies. I didn’t see you had company. How rude of me. I’m Jodie Combs. My husband’s an investor in Mr. Byrne’s company.”

“Everly Carlisle,” I said, extending my free hand. “It’s lovely to meet you.”

Kieran cleared his throat, wrapping his arm around my shoulder and pulling me closer. “This is my girlfriend, Mrs. Combs.”

Her eyes softened as she stared at me before flicking back to Jace, and I wondered if the woman picked up more than she gave away.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Everly. I was so thrilled when I heard Kieran would be bringing someone. He’s a special one.”

Kieran shuffled on his feet, apparently not accustomed to praise.

“That he is,” I said, smiling at my blushing boyfriend and enjoying how ruffled he was. If only I could reach his cheek, then I could give him a kiss.

Hold up, where did that thought come from? I mentally slapped myself on the head. Time for another rule, since the emotional condom wasn’t working.

Companion Rule #6—never forget it’s fake.

“It’s so nice to see young love,” she gushed. “I’ll let you get settled, though I look forward to getting to know you more at dinner, dear.” She patted Jace’s hand before waving and walking back the other way.

“She seems nice,” I said once she was gone.

“She is. One of the few,” Jace stated, spinning back around, the earlier playfulness gone. “I think you officially passed your first test. Good job, mate.” He clapped Kieran’s shoulder, knocking him out of his stare off with the empty space.

“Huh. Oh, yeah.” He stepped away, his arm dropping from around my shoulder. The heat of his body left me, and I instantly missed it. Get. A. Grip.

“Shall we continue touring?” I asked, distracting myself and them from how much I wanted him to pull me toward him again.

Jace pointed out different things we could do as we walked the decks, taking in the pool, a few bars, and a fitness room. It all went in one ear and out the other as I nodded along, too focused on the unfamiliar emotions churning in my gut. My stomach grumbled, reminding me I’d skipped out on breakfast.

“Let’s get you something to eat, Firecracker,” Jace said, winking as he turned us around.

As we headed back to the main area, the cutest dog ever bounded toward us, its leash trailing behind them. I instantly dropped to block it from getting by, holding my hands for it to run to. The furry fluff ball skidded as it tried to brake, running smack into my legs. I scooped up the golden love bug, nuzzling my nose into its fur as I gave the dog some love.

“Where are you off to, little one? You’re the cutest thing ever. Your owner must be terrified,” I cooed.

“He was,” a voice I’d have recognized anywhere said.

Snapping my head up, I met Cruz’s molten gaze and blinked, convinced I was hallucinating from lack of food. He stepped closer to me, his thumb trailing over my arm and bringing shivers.

“You have a dog?” I asked instead of the one I really wanted. Why are you here?

“Yep. That’s Buns.”

“Buns.” I smiled, peering down at the corgi. “She?” I asked, glancing back up.

Cruz nodded, giving me his cocky grin like he’d just won something. His long hair was up in his usual top-knot, earrings shining on his ear. He was dressed casually in gray shorts and a white tee shirt with slip-on canvas shoes. He looked relaxed like he was meant to be here and not thousands of miles back home.

“We’re getting some lunch. Care to join?” Jace asked, startling me as I’d forgotten they were there. My two worlds were clashing, and I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t even think there was a companion rule for this.

“Um, this is Jace and Kieran,” I said to Cruz.

“We’ve met.” Cruz grinned like he was in on some big cosmic joke to bring all the men I wanted to fuck together in one place. Now all I needed was for Phantom to appear, and I’d have a quartet. Cruz’s gaze shifted to Jace, something simmering there. Now that was a new development. I licked my lips, wondering what they would be like together and if I could be in the middle.

“How are you here?” I blurted when I couldn’t stand the heat licking up my body.

“Well, I bought a ticket. Flew down to Miami. And then walked onto the ship. I’m sure you did the same.”

I groaned; not liking when sarcasm was directed back at me. I was the sassy, sarcastic one—no one else.

“Yes. I know how the logistics of it work. I mean, how are you on the same cruise as me?”

“Fate.” Cruz shrugged his shoulders, irritating me even more. “I did tell you. But you didn’t read my messages,” he added, the corner of his mouth tilting up in satisfaction. Jerk.

Fudge-a-roni. Ugh. I wouldn’t put it past him to have purposefully waited, knowing I wouldn’t read them just so he could tell me this.

“Fine. You’re here, but I’m working. So, no distractions,” I said, trying to regain control.

“From what I understand, Meu Tudo, you’re only required to work parts of the day, leaving other times open to your discretion. Am I wrong?”

“You’re not,” Jace supplied so helpfully. “Also, I made it very clear that Everly could fuck whoever she wanted.”

The way he said fuck had me closing my eyes and pressing my legs together. Buns panted in my arms, but I kept her close, worried my nipples would be hard as diamonds in this dress.

“I don’t know how to take you two together,” I said when I could open my eyes.

“However you want,” Jace teased, nudging me forward. “Food first.”

Nodding, I let him direct me back on course, focusing on the dog as I tried to make sense of this. There was no way I could boycott dick now. My pussy was already throbbing at the thought of Cruz being here.

The man had mad dick skills. And tongue. And fingers.

Okay, he had skills. Period.

“Do you need some sunscreen, Meu Tudo? You’re looking a little flushed.”

“Nope. All good.”

I pushed forward, taking Kieran’s hand and dragging him with me, setting Buns down and using her leash. Kieran peeked at me like he was trying to see if I was okay. I squeezed his hand and pressed my cheek against his arm. At least I had him.

Which admittedly was odd considering I’d only just met him, but he felt safe and secure, giving me the space not to have it all figured out for a second.

Lunch was quiet, the guys talking as I listened, trying to figure out how they knew one another. It had to be Howlers. Cruz spent most of his time there, and Kieran said he and Jace had gone. Though, I’d never seen either of them. I would’ve remembered both.

“The boat disembarks soon. Do we want to watch before we head to our cabins?” Jace asked.

“Yeah. Sounds good.”

Then I could get some more space to think through things. I’d need to double up on the walls. I always kept Cruz at arm’s length, knowing too much of him and he’d absorb me or something, like an amoeba.

We joined some others against the rail as the ship pulled away. I watched the flurry of activity below on the dock, amazed at all the steps that occurred. People waved, so I returned it, smiling as we set off. The sun felt nice on my face, and I dropped my shoulders as I tried to relax. It didn’t matter that my fuck buddy was here. I could still do a good job and keep my boundaries. Nothing had to change.

Companion Rule #7—when in doubt, refer to rule #1.

I followed Jace and Kieran as they navigated the ship’s inner workings to find our staterooms. Jace kept looking at the paper and then the doors, a frown forming on his face.

“Um,” he said, then snapped his lips closed.

“What?” I asked. “Is this the wrong deck?”

“No. That’s not it.” His hazel eyes widened as he took his card from his lanyard and opened a door. Confused, I followed him, taking in the gorgeous room. It had a king bed against one wall, a couch and kitchenette off to the side, and a door for a bathroom hidden in the back. The curtains were pulled open on the windows, and I realized it led to a balcony.

“Wow, this is amazing. I doubt mine’s this nice.” My foot hit a piece of luggage as I moved toward the door.

“Um, about that,” Jace said, cringing. I turned, spotting him and Kieran arguing with their eyes. Cruz stood in the doorway with a satisfied grin as he watched me. His dark eyes were too much to take, so I looked down to move the luggage I’d tripped on.

“Wait,” I said, the piece of luggage sticking out the mint and taupe of my own. Next to it sat the black and silver of Jace and Kieran’s.

Three sets of luggage.

One bed.

Ah, fuck. I’d just been rom-comed.