Fallen For Three

Chapter 19

NINETEEN

Two and a halfweeks have passed since my nan’s passing. The funeral was a beautiful send-off and she is buried next to my grandad. Life moves forward amidst the weight of grief and loss. The reading of her will unveil a mix of emotions as the distribution of her estate unfolds. My cousin, Florence, received a lump sum of money, while I am entrusted with the estate and a substantial inheritance. However, excluding my brother and younger cousins from the will, as the will was drawn up before their births adds, another layer of complexity to an already delicate situation.

My mother’s plea for the house, citing it as her birthright after being informed she was not included in the will, brings a new challenge. I refused, of course. The decision to stand firm in my resolve is not easy and is met with resistance and resentment from some corners of my family. Yet, I know deep down that it is the right choice, a testament to my love and respect for my nan’s wishes and the importance of honoring her memory in the most meaningful way possible.

Amid these difficult decisions and emotional turmoil, I find solace in the trio’s support. They have been amazing. I move forward, carrying the lessons learned from my nan’s life and the values she instilled in me, knowing that her spirit will always guide me on the path ahead.

I sit on the sofa,enveloped in the comfort of my loungewear. The familiar sounds of the guys bustling about outside offer a sense of normalcy amid my grief. However, the arrival of Amara at my door interrupts the quiet solitude of my thoughts.

“Please come in, Amara,” I offer, gesturing for her to enter as she stands on the threshold.

“Miss—” she says.

My eyebrows raise at her for calling me Miss.

“Tessie. Sorry. Will you be moving into the main house?” Amara inquires, her strong Greek accent lending a sense of warmth and familiarity to her words.

I pause for a moment, considering her question carefully before responding. “I’m not sure yet, Amara,” I reply honestly.

Amara places a gentle hand on my shoulder, her touch a comforting reassurance amidst the turmoil of my emotions. “I don’t mean to come off rude,” she begins, her voice soft yet firm. “You haven’t left the house for over two weeks. Miss Mavis would not like you locked away like this. I know death is a horrible thing, but this is not what Miss Mavis would have wanted.”

Her words strike a chord within me, a gentle reminder of my nan’s unwavering spirit and the importance of honoring her memory in the most meaningful way possible. I realize she speaks the truth–my nan would want me to live my life to the fullest, even in the face of loss and sorrow.

With a nod of understanding, I offer Amara a grateful smile. She leaves, her words lingering in the air like a gentle breeze, guiding me towards a path of healing and renewal in the wake of my nan’s passing.

I open the curtains and windows to let some fresh air into the room. I catch sight of the trio standing around the Jeep, their heads bent in concentration as they tinker with it. The sound of their laughter and chatter drifts in through the open windows.

I can’t help but smile as I soak in the scene before me, knowing deep down that this is precisely what my nan would have wanted–for me to embrace life fully and find joy in the simple pleasures that surround me.

Just as I’m lost in thought, my phone rings, pulling me back to the present moment. I glance and see Rae’s name flashing on the screen. Without hesitation, I pick up the phone.

“Hey, Rae.”

“Tess…” she cries.

“What’s up?”

“Me and Archie broke up.”

“Oh, Rae, I’m really sorry to hear that.”

I wasn’t sorry they broke up, but I had to lie to her. I hear her cry over the phone. I hadn’t told her about my nan’s passing yet.

“Why don’t you stay with me for a night?”

“I don’t want to be any trouble, Tess.”

“Seriously, it’s fine. You will be doing me a favor, taking my mind off things. My nan passed.”

“Tess! I am so sorry. Why didn’t you say anything?”

“It’s fine, Rae…Listen, I’ll text you the address.”

“Ok. I can be there late afternoon.”

“Oh, Rae! Uhh, don’t tell Archie the address or anything.”

“Trust me, I’m never speaking to him again. I’ll see you later.”

I end the call. Knowing that Rae will be joining me tonight warms my heart. I can’t help but smile at the thought of spending time with her.

With a spring in my step, I make my way to the front door, the trio’s laughter echoing in the air. The day suddenly feels brighter and I look forward to the evening ahead.

I feel the fresh air on my face. Amara was right; I haven’t felt it in over two weeks. As I approach the trio I can sense their confusion as they look at me. Nate’s arms envelop me in a comforting embrace, his concern evident in his question.

“Are you ok, baby?” he asks, his voice filled with genuine care.

I offer him a small smile, grateful for his support. “Yeah, I just need to get on with my life like my nan would have wanted,” I reply.

Nate kisses my forehead tenderly before stepping back, allowing Cain to wrap his arms around me in a tight hug. His embrace is reassuring, a silent reminder that I am not alone in my grief.

I decide to share the news of Rae’s visit, hoping to lift the mood and bring a sense of normalcy back into my life. “Oh, Rae is coming to stay for the night. She and Archie broke up. Don’t worry. I told her not to tell him the address,” I explain, hoping to alleviate any concerns they may have.

The trio exchanges a glance, their expressions unreadable for a moment before Mike breaks the silence with a closed-lip smile. “It will be good for you to see Rae,” he says.

“I’m going to have a shower. I was thinking we could maybe move into the main house tonight?” I suggest, feeling ready to embrace change and move forward.

“Only if you are sure, princess,” Cain responds.

“I am sure,” I affirm with determination. I gently release myself from his embrace and make my way toward the guesthouse, ready to take the next step toward healing and rebuilding.

We watch Tessie walk back to the house. I am glad she is starting to feel herself.

“So, Paul finally reached out,” Cain begins, “He’s been in contact, but it’s all been cryptic, like…”

Leaning forward, we listen intently as Cain continues, his words painting a vivid picture of the unfolding drama. “She’s been sold.”

As Cain speaks, my heart sinks. “The buyer,” he continues, his tone darkening, “was one of those anonymous phone buyers. You know, the kind that operates in the shadows, pulling strings without ever showing their face.”

Every detail Cain reveals only deepens the mystery, leaving us hanging on his every word. “We’re in deep waters now, guys,” he concludes, his voice a mixture of determination and uncertainty. “But Paul is gonna find out who the buyer is. They still have no idea where she is. Archie has been trying to find out, though. I will do everything in my power to keep that girl safe.”

Cain changes the subject when he sees the gardener walk past. “She’s resilient, that’s for sure.”

Nate and I nod in agreement, his eyes reflecting a mixture of empathy and understanding. “It’s a relief to see her smiling again,” he says, his voice tinged with gratitude. “At least she isn’t throwing up anymore.”

“When my mom and sister died,” I begin, my voice faltering slightly, “I was throwing up all the time. It felt like my whole world was spinning out of control. Crazy what emotions can do to your body.”

Cain’s expression softens, “I can’t even imagine what you went through, dude,” he says softly, his words carrying a weight of understanding. “But you’re still standing and that’s a testament to your strength.”

“You’re right. I’m going to check on Tessie,” I say, walking backward toward the house.

I approach the house and my footsteps feel heavier with each step. The door creaks softly as I push it open, the sound echoing through the quiet hallway. The distant rush of water draws me closer. As I step into the bathroom, the steam clouds my vision for a moment before clearing to reveal Tessie, her silhouette blurred by the cascading water. I am struck by the sight of her naked body, huddled and vulnerable.

Her tears mingle with the water and my heart clenches at the sight. Without a second thought, I close the distance between us. Entering the shower and sitting beside her, I can feel the warmth of the water soaking through my clothes.

With a gentle touch, I wrap my arm around her trembling shoulders. The sound of her sobs fills the small space.

Together, we sit in the embrace of the shower. As the water continues to fall, I silently vow to stand by her side in the midst of her darkest moments.

“It’s ok not to be ok, Tessie,” I say over the running water.

Her voice trembles with emotion as she speaks. “I can do this. I know I can,” she declares through her tears, her words echoing in the humid bathroom air. I see the strength that lies within her. With a soft smile, I squeeze her shoulder gently. “You don’t have to do it alone,” I assure her.

Together, we sit in the sanctuary of the shower, surrounded by the steady rhythm of falling water.

I hold Tessie close. With a gentle touch, I brush a stray strand of hair away from her face, my fingertips grazing her skin with a tender caress.

I just hold her tight and close as she cries.

“Have you washed your hair?” I inquire softly. She shakes her head in response. Without hesitation, I reach for the shampoo bottle, squeezing a generous amount onto my palm.

“Lean back,” I instruct her gently, my voice a soothing whisper amidst the rush of water.

I massage the shampoo into her hair delicately, my fingers working slowly. Despite the water soaking through my clothes, I am consumed by a sense of purpose, a desire to offer her a moment of respite in the midst of her storm.

I grab the shower head, carefully rinsing away the shampoo. I can feel the weight of her gaze upon me, a silent testament to the trust that binds us together in this fragile moment.

“Do you use a conditioner?” I ask.

A soft giggle escapes her lips. “Yes,” she replies, her voice carrying a hint of amusement despite the tears lingering in her eyes.

With a gentle smile, I reach for the bottle of conditioner, squeezing a small amount onto my palm.

“Just from the middle to the ends,” she instructs me softly.

I run my fingers through the ends of her hair and then rinse the conditioner away.

“I’m just going to get you a towel,” I assure her.

As I leave the shower and step out, the slick tile floor betrays me, sending me tumbling onto my ass.

“Oh my god. Are you ok, Mike?” Tessie’s voice rings out with concern.

I can’t help but laugh. Looking up at Tessie from my undignified position on the floor, I meet her gaze with a sheepish grin. Tessie can’t help but join in with my laughter.

I am reminded of the power of laughter that can transcend even the darkest moments.

Nate rushes into the bathroom. “Is everything alright?” he asks, his eyes scanning the scene before him and lingering on me as I pick myself up from the floor.

I straighten my posture, feeling the dull ache in my lower back begin to make its presence known. “That’s gonna hurt in the morning,” I remark, instinctively reaching for my lower back.

Nate wastes no time springing into action, his movements swift and decisive as he grabs a towel from the nearby rack. Without a word, he wraps it around Tessie, shielding her from the chill of the air as she stands at the edge of the shower.

Amara’s warm embrace envelops me as I enter the main house entrance, momentarily easing the tension that grips my chest. I return the hug, feeling a sense of gratitude wash over me for her unwavering support. I glance over her shoulder towards the bottom of the staircase. A knot forms in my throat, a silent reminder of the weight of grief still hanging heavy in the air.

“I’m glad you are using the main house. It is what Miss Mavis would have wanted,” Amara’s gentle voice breaks through the silence.

Standing beside Cain, I feel a surge of uncertainty wash over me, the weight of my emotions threatening to overwhelm my fragile resolve.

“If it’s too soon, we can go back to the guesthouse,” Cain offers, his voice laced with concern as he gazes at me with unwavering support.

“No, I’ll be ok,” I reassure him, summoning a faint smile despite the heaviness in my heart.

Mike’s comforting touch on my back sends a ripple of reassurance through me.

“I have prepared a room for your female guest. My shift ends soon, but I have prepared a meal for you all. You just have to warm it up,” Amara explains.

“Thank you, Amara. Really. Thank you for everything,” I say, the words heavy with gratitude as I meet her gaze with a heartfelt sincerity.

She turns around, a soft smile playing at the corners of her lips, a silent testament to the strength of her spirit amidst the trials of life as she disappears into the kitchen.

I ascend the stairs, each step feeling heavier than the last. The familiar sight of my nan’s closed door beckons me, drawing me towards it. But before I can reach out to touch the door, Nate’s voice breaks through the silence, his words a gentle plea. With a sigh, I reluctantly withdraw my hand.

Mike and Cain follow closely behind. As we reach another door to a bedroom, I push open the door revealing a spacious sanctuary.

A wooden, four-poster bed dominates the room. Its sturdy frame billows cream drapes that cascade gracefully to the floor, creating a sense of timeless elegance. A massive, white, fluffy rug lies in the heart of the room, adding a touch of luxury.

But the white marble fireplace commands attention, a focal point of the room. Carved with intricate detail, its smooth surface gleams.

“This is nice…” Mike’s voice drifts through the air, his words showing appreciation as he sets down a suitcase on the massive bed before us.

I walk over to the window, gazing out at the world beyond. I am struck by the quiet beauty of the landscape unfolding before me.

The guesthouse exudes warmth and intimacy with its small size and cozy vibes. Every corner is infused with a welcoming charm, from the quaint furnishings to the soft lighting that bathes the rooms in a gentle glow.

In contrast, the main house commands attention with its grandeur and elegance. From the moment you step through its doors, you are greeted by the expansive expanse of space and the regal beauty of its architecture. Every detail speaks of luxury and refinement.

Despite their differences, both houses hold a special place in my heart.

Nate’s arms envelop me and I lean into his comforting embrace. We stand together, gazing out the window. With his head resting on my shoulder, we share a moment of quiet contemplation.

The sound of Rae’s car suddenly jolts us back to reality, the music blaring from the speakers. As she beeps her horn, a smile tugs at the corners of my lips, a reminder of the vibrant spirit Rae brings into my life.

“Here we go…” Mike’s voice breaks through the silence, his words laced with amusement and anticipation.

Nate releases me from his embrace. I feel a surge of energy coursing through my veins. Turning around, I jog past Mike and Cain, my heart racing with anticipation as I rush downstairs to greet Rae.

Throwing open the front door, I find her standing there, a vision of effortless cool in her black sunglasses and hair swept up in a messy bun. The faint scent of cigarette smoke hangs around her, mingling with the sweet perfume that clings to her skin.

Before I can utter a word, she envelops me in a tight hug, her arms wrapping around me. In that moment, all the weight of grief and uncertainty fades away.

As she pulls away, a smile lights up, her eyes twinkling with mischief and laughter.

“How are you?” she asks.

“I have been better,” I reply.

Cain strides past us and he mutters, “Raquel.”

With a nod of acknowledgment, he picks up Rae’s overnight bag, a silent gesture of hospitality.

“Cain…” Rae’s voice trails off.

Before I can say anything, Cain leans in to kiss my cheek, “I’m going to take Raquel’s bag upstairs. We will let you catch up,” he explains, his words tinged with warmth and consideration.

“Thank you,” I reply.

“Don’t be stealing anything from my bag, Cain,” Rae remarks with a laugh.

Cain scoffs.

Taking Rae’s hand in mine, I lead her towards the kitchen. As she takes in the sights of the house around her, she can’t help but let out a wow.

Rae settles onto the stool. Her eyes are wide with awe and she breathes, “This place is beautiful.”

I smile hesitantly. “Yeah. It’s also mine,” I murmur.

“What?”

Shaking my head, I gather my thoughts before replying, “Yeah. I’ve inherited this place.”

Her eyes widen in disbelief, her mouth forming a silent “O” of surprise. “Oh my. Are you going to live here or sell it?” she asks, her voice tinged with curiosity.

The question catches me off guard, and for a moment, I am at a loss for words. Should I live here? Should I sell it? I hadn’t even considered the options.

“I don’t even know. I will probably live here,” I finally admit.

Rae’s concern is evident as she presses further, “What about college and everything?”

The question hangs in the air.

“Honestly, I don’t know, Rae,” I confess.

Rae places her hands in mine. Her gesture of comfort and support warms my heart. She offers her condolences on my grandmother’s passing. “Thank you,” I murmur, grateful for her understanding and compassion.

Changing the subject feels like a necessary distraction. “So, what happened between you and Archie?” I ask.

“Well, he went all weird on me. Saying it was him, not me. Also, he needed to do stuff before getting serious with anyone.”

“Hmm. Odd.” I reply.

“I’m over him. I’m done. It’s nice being here and taking my mind off it.”

I am so glad she is done with him. Archie was, and still is, a creep.

The corners of my lips curl into a mischievous smirk as I rise from the stool, the wooden legs scraping softly against the floor. “Would you like a drink?” I ask.

Her eyes light up with a playful glint as she responds, “Do you have wine?”

“Uhh…”

I swing open the cupboard door. My gaze flits over the array of bottles, finally settling on the red and white wines nestled among the glasses. “I’ll have a glass of red, please,” she requests.

I grab a wine glass and set it on the countertop. I carefully uncork the wine, the satisfying pop echoing softly in the air.

“You not having one?” she asks, breaking the silence.

“No, I’ve been sick the last couple of days,”

“Probably all the emotions. Come on, have a glass.”

I roll my eyes. “Fine…” I mumble, reaching for another wine glass. With practiced ease, I pour myself a glass.

I carefully place her glass on the kitchen island.

I bring the glass to my nose, inhaling deeply. The aroma of the wine envelops me.

With a sense of anticipation, I take a small sip. Rae raises her glass to her lips, her expression thoughtful. She takes a sip, her eyes closing briefly in appreciation before a soft hmm escapes her lips.

“This is nice. What is it called?” she asks.

Turning the bottle in my hand, I present the label to her. She leans in, her gaze tracing the words before a smile graces her lips.

“So, how have the guys been?” Rae asks.

Her question catches me off guard and I pause for a moment.

“They have been amazing in supporting me. I couldn’t ask for any better,” I finally respond, choosing my words carefully.

“That’s good. I’m gonna be blunt. Like…are you fucking them all?”

She leaves me speechless, my eyes widening in surprise.

“Uh...Yes... Rae,” I stammer, the admission leaving my lips before I can fully process it. She meets my gaze with a knowing smirk, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

As the tension dissipates, I chuckle nervously, grateful for her acceptance and understanding.

Mike rushes into the kitchen, breaking the tension of the moment. I watch as he swings open the fridge door.

“Ay. Close that fridge, Amara has made us food,” I interject, my tone light, but firm.

Rae’s curiosity piques when she mentions Amara and turns to me with a questioning gaze. “Who’s Amara?” she asks.

I explain she is the housekeeper and close the fridge. With a huff, Mike redirects his focus.

“Hi, Rae,” Mike greets her, his voice warm as he approaches. He leans in to kiss my cheek.

I smile in response, the brief touch of his lips sending a flutter of warmth through me.

“Do you want me to warm up dinner?” he offers, his gaze meeting mine with a hint of affection.

“That would be great, thank you,” I reply.

I seize the opportunity to show Rae around. With a light bounce in my step, I hop off the stool.

Raeand I step into the game room. The vibrant energy of the space envelops us with the sound of darts hitting the board. Nate and Cain are engrossed in a game of darts, their competitive spirits evident in the focused expressions on their faces.

Rae’s admiration for the house prompts a bittersweet pang in my chest, a reminder of my nan’s death. I smile, grateful for her kind words even as they stir conflicting emotions within me.

Cain’s approach interrupts my thoughts, his arm encircling my waist. His lips meet mine in a tender kiss. I return the gesture with a gentle smile.

“Dinner will be ready soon. Mike’s warming it up,” I inform Cain.

Nate takes the opportunity to engage Rae in a game of darts, passing her a set of darts with a playful smirk. She accepts the challenge with a confident smirk, striding up to the dartboard with determination.

With a flick of her wrist, she releases the dart, only to watch it sail wide of the mark, missing the board entirely. Nate can’t help but scoff at her attempt, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips.

Rae passes me the darts, her playful challenge sparking a competitive fire within me. With a determined expression, I step up to the mark, the weight of the darts familiar in my hand.

I focus on the target, blocking out the distractions around me as I take aim. With a swift motion, I release the dart.

I hear the satisfying thud of the dart hitting the board. My heart racing with excitement as I realize I hit the bullseye.

“Yay!” I shout, unable to contain my excitement as I leap up and down.

Cain’s voice interrupts my celebration, his sarcastic tone piercing through the air. I watch as he approaches the dartboard, retrieving the dart with a wry smile.

“Well done. However, it’s better if you hit a triple twenty. You score more. Well done for hitting the middle of the board, though,” he remarks, his words laced with playful teasing.

I scowl at him, sticking my tongue out and raising my middle finger. As the tension melts away, I can’t help but grin.

Mike’s call for dinner echoes through the house. Cain’s hand intertwines with mine, leading the way out of the room. Nate and Rae trail behind us as we make our way to the kitchen, curiosity tingling in the air.

Upon reaching the kitchen, the dishes on the island resemble something out of a culinary experiment gone awry. Nate’s face drops and his smile vanishes.

“What is that?” Rae asks, her voice betraying her apprehension as she asks the question on all our minds.

“Did you warm it up correctly, Mike?” I ask, my stomach churning with uncertainty.

Mike’s response, a sheepish scratch of his head, did little to ease our concerns. “Yeah. I think it’s some kind of beef in a sauce.”

“Let’s just order some pizzas,” Cain says.

“I would feel bad,” I admit reluctantly, “Amara made this for us.”

Rae’s blunt assessment delivers a mixture of amusement and disbelief, “Tess, it does look like cat food,” she remarks, punctuating the air with a touch of humor.

I roll my eyes. “Fine,” I mumble, my reluctance evident in my tone.

The atmospherearound the table is relaxed and our bellies are comfortably full of pizza. The clink of glasses and the sound of laughter fill the air. I find myself reaching for my third glass of wine while Rae is already on her fourth.

Cain’s hand finds its place on my thigh. His glass of whisky sits nearby, its amber contents reflecting the warm glow of the room as he takes measured sips.

Nate’s sudden proposal injects new energy into the gathering. He produces a deck of cards with a mischievous glint in his eye. “Who’s up for some poker?” he challenges, his smirk infectious.

Rae’s response was immediate, her enthusiasm evident in her words. “Fuck it,” she declares.

“Are we playing for real money?” Mike asks, his tone betraying a hint of caution.

“No! We can play with fake poker chips,” I propose, eager to maintain the evening’s lighthearted spirit.

We all straighten up in our chairs, anticipation mounting as Nate begins to deal out the cards. I pour myself another glass of wine.

As the cards fall before me, a grin tugs at the corners of my lips. Six of clubs and five of clubs stare back at me, their modest value sparking excitement.

Nate reveals the first three cards, each sparking a flurry of calculations and strategizing among us. An ace of hearts, an eight of spades, and my six of clubs lay splayed across the table, their presence setting the stage for the unfolding drama.

Quickly assessing my hand, I noted the potential for a pair.

Mike’s raise injects a new level of intensity into the game, his boldness prompting a moment of deliberation among us. With a shared glance and a silent understanding. We each affirmed our commitment to the hand, our chips meeting Mike’s wager with determined resolve.

The stakes are set.

Nate flips the fourth card, a ten of hearts, and a ripple of tension sweeps through the room. Mike dismissively scoffs as he folds, leaving the rest of us to face Cain’s confident raise.

Cain’s expression is a mask of calm composure as he raises the stakes. My gaze flickers to him.

Meeting my gaze with a knowing look, Cain lifts his glass to his lips, the amber liquid swirling within as he takes a measured sip of whisky. His eyes hold mine for a moment before his attention returns to the game at hand.

With a flick of his wrist, Nate reveals the fifth and final card: two of clubs. He and Rae fold, leaving Cain and me to face off in a battle.

Cain’s scrutinizing gaze bore into me, his eyes squinting in contemplation as he assesses the situation. With one final check, I reveal my hand. The modest pair of cards lay bare for all to see. Cain turns over his own cards, revealing a pair of aces; a curse escapes my lips in a moment of realization.

“Fuck,” I mutter, the weight of defeat settling over me as Cain’s hand clenches the victory.

“If I beat you in this next game, can I have a good grade?” Rae asks Mike. Her tone is laced with a touch of humor.

Mike’s response is swift and blunt, his laughter punctuating his words as he dismisses her request. “No,” he replies with a scoff, the finality of his answer underscoring their playful banter.

Their exchange adds a lighthearted energy to the game. With a shared chuckle and a playful roll of her eyes, Rae settles back into her seat, ready to take on the challenge before her. Our friendly rivalry grows as the cards are dealt and the game unfolds.

“Do you guys have any friends I can date?” Rae chuckles, asking the guys and then taking a sip of wine.

Nate laughs and says, “My only true friends are at this table and we are devoted to our girl, Tessie.” He then leans into me.

Rae smiles at me and takes another sip of her wine.

“Look,” she begins, her words slightly slurring from the effects of the wine. “Because I’m a little drunk, and you’re fucking my best friend, I’m going to be honest.”

Cain lets out a groan, a mixture of amusement and trepidation, while Mike raises an eyebrow, his lips turn into a half-smile.

“Oh, god,” Cain mumbles under his breath, earning a playful swat from Nate.

Rae ignores Cain’s exasperation, her gaze fixed on Mike with playful intensity. “Mike, I think you’re such a grumpy fucker at college,” she utters, punctuating her statement with a giggle.

Mike’s expression softens and he folds his arms across his chest, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips.

Nate, always quick with a witty remark, couldn’t resist chiming in. “If you think he’s grumpy, just wait until you’re around Cain long enough,” he says, his voice dripping with sarcasm as he shoots Cain a teasing grin. Cain rolls his eyes good-naturedly.

We play another hand of poker.

The cards slide smoothly across the table. With a practiced flick of my wrist, I reveal my hand, a triumphant grin creeping onto my face. “Oh, would you look at that,” I drawl, my voice dripping with confidence, “three of a kind.”

When those words leave my mouth, it reminds me I have three of a kind: Cain, Mike, and Nate.

A ripple of reaction sweeps through the room. Cain shoots me a knowing wink, acknowledging the satisfying turn of fortune.

“Well done,” he whispers in my ear.

I lean back in my chair, relishing the sweet taste of victory.

The room fills with friendly banter and occasional laughter. Rae’s preoccupation with her phone did not go unnoticed.

“Everything ok, Rae?” I question gently.

Her smile, though warm, holds a hint of distraction as she glances up from her phone. “Yeah,” she reassures me, briefly returning to the screen before focusing back on me. “I think I’m going to head to bed. That wine got to me,” she adds with a light chuckle, rising from her chair.

Standing up alongside her, I offer a supportive nod. “I’ll show you the room, we need to have a girly chat.”

“Night, guys,” Rae says.

The trio nod their heads and say goodnight.

The soft glowof the bedside lamp casts a warm, intimate ambiance in Rae’s bedroom. With our heads propping up on pillows, Rae reclines comfortably while I stretch out at the foot of her bed, our gazes fixed on the expanse of the ceiling above. Conversation flows effortlessly between us, weaving through topics both lighthearted and profound. As the minutes melt into hours, the comfort of our friendship envelopes us like a familiar embrace.

“I love them,” I murmur.

“Really?” Rae’s voice holds a hint of curiosity, her eyes glinting with interest.

“Yup,” I affirmed, a soft smile tugging at the corners of my lips.

The question hung in the air, heavy with contemplation. “Can you love three men the same?”

“I do. I love them equally,”

Rae’s response is a mixture of awe and wistfulness. “You are so lucky to find them. I can’t even find one, let alone three,” she huffs, a hint of playful frustration in her tone.

“You will find someone, Rae.” She tosses the small pillow into the air and catches it again.

“Here’s a question,” she chirps, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “If you had to kiss, marry and kill one. Who would it be?”

I chuckle softly, shaking my head at her cheeky inquiry. “I’m not even gonna answer that, Rae.”

“You’re boring,” she teases, her playful pout drawing a grin from me.

With a mock-serious expression, I grab a nearby pillow and launch it at her, the soft projectile sailing through the air with playful intent.

The room fills with our laughter, the carefree exchange of playful banter.

“I might stay for another night. If that’s ok with you? Not too sure yet.”

“That’s fine. It’s nice to have you here,” I reassure her.

In the quiet exchange, the unspoken comfort of companionship bridges any gaps of uncertainty. I find solace in the simple pleasure of her company and I am grateful for the warmth of friendship that filled the space between us.

Nate, Cain, and I sit in companionable silence, each lost in our thoughts. The weight of recent weeks hung in the air like a heavy blanket, but amidst it all was a glimmer of hope.

“It’s nice to see Tessie laugh after the past weeks. Rae has definitely helped,” I state, a note of gratitude coloring my words as I reflect on the positive change in Tessie’s demeanor.

Cain nods in agreement, his expression thoughtful. “Hopefully, Rae hasn’t told Archie where she has gone,” he muses, raising both brows in concern.

Nate chimes in with reassuring news. “Nah. Tessie told me earlier that Rae and Archie are done,” he explains, his tone conveying relief.

The conversation shifts, turning toward the uncertain future that lies ahead. “Can’t believe Tessie owns the estate now. Are we going to live here now?” I ponder aloud, glancing around the room, which now feels familiar.

“Where Tessie goes, I go. I can move my mother into a care home close by,” Nate declares, his loyalty to Tessie unwavering. In that moment, we sip on our whisky and contemplate the twists and turns of fate.

The morning light filters weakly through the kitchen window, casting long shadows across the tiled floor as I sit at the island, my eyelids heavy with sleep. The previous night’s conversation with Rae stretched into the early hours, leaving me drowsy and disoriented.

Cain expertly flips bacon in the skillet and the savory aroma fills the air. Nate’s silhouette is visible through the window, his silhouette in smoke as he indulges in his morning ritual. Mike has headed to the store in towns.

Suddenly, Rae walks into the kitchen, her overnight bag slung over her shoulder and sunglasses on her head. “I’ve decided I’m going to head home,” she announces, her attention absorbed by the glow of her phone screen.

I hop off the stool, concern flickering in my tired eyes. “Oh, ok. You’re welcome to stay, Rae,” I offer, moving closer to her.

But it seems she didn’t hear me; her focus is fixed on her phone. Cain coughs lightly and wraps an arm around my shoulder. “Well, thank you for cheering up, Tessie,” he interjects, his tone warm with gratitude.

Rae finally glances up from her phone, offering a smile. “It’s fine, really. Anything for my girl,” she replies, her words carrying a genuine sincerity that warmed my heart.

Realizing that Rae is set on leaving, I nod and smile. “Right, well, I’d better show you out then,” I say softly, leading her towards the front door.

Cain graciously takes Rae’s overnight bag and follows behind us.

Rae kisses me on the cheek, her lips leaving a faint warmth against my skin. I return her hug, holding her for a moment longer, wanting to prolong the farewell. “Drive safe and text me when you get home,” I say.

“Of course. Thank you for letting me stay. Tell Mike I said bye,” Rae replies, her tone casual yet filled with warmth as she steps back from our embrace. Her eyes lingering for a moment before turning towards Nate.

Nate approaches with his usual easy stride, wrapping Rae in a quick hug. She leans close, whispering something into his ear with a mischievous glint. Nate releases her from the embrace.

Rae then turns to Cain, giving him a quick hug before straightening up and glancing back at us one last time. With a wave, she makes her way to her car, the sound of her engine humming to life punctuating the air.

The three of us make our way back into the house and the question burning in my mind can no longer be contained. “What did Rae whisper in your ear?” I ask Nate.

“That’s for me to know and you to find out,” Nate replies with a playful grin, his words dripping with mystery.

Cain can’t help but roll his eyes at Nate’s cryptic response. “That makes no sense, dude. She’s trying to find out by asking,” he chimes in, shaking his head in amusement.

We enter the kitchen, the smell of sizzling bacon filling the air as Nate and I settle onto stools.

Cain plates up the bacon sandwiches, passing one to me with a nod. “Thank you,” I say appreciatively, eyeing the delicious creation on my plate.

Next, he hands a plate to Nate, who can’t resist adding a touch of playful banter. “Thank you, housewife,” Nate remarks with a smirk, aiming to tease Cain.

Cain’s reaction is immediate, his expression shifting to a scowl as he shoots a mock glare at Nate. Despite his attempt to appear stern, a small chuckle escapes me at Nate’s quip, unable to contain my amusement.

“Asshole,” Cain mutters under his breath, though his playful irritation is evident as he grabs a plate for himself, joining us at the island.

The kitchen buzzes with the sounds of clinking plates and friendly banter as we indulge in the simple pleasure of having breakfast together.

Surprise blooms in my chest as I turn my head and see Mike standing at the kitchen door, a bouquet of vibrant flowers in his hand. The colors seem to brighten the room even more as he approaches, his smile warm and genuine.

He kisses me gently before passing the bouquet into my hands. “For you,” he says simply, his eyes reflecting the affection behind the gesture.

My heart swells with gratitude as I take in the beauty of the flowers. “Oh, wow. They are beautiful, Mike,” I exclaim, genuinely touched by his thoughtfulness.

As if the flowers weren’t enough, Mike adds another sweet surprise to the mix. With a playful grin, he places a heart-shaped chocolate box on the island.

The combination of flowers and chocolates fills the kitchen with an air of romance and I can’t help but feel overwhelmed by the love and care Mike had poured into this gesture. With a grateful smile, I pull him into another hug, feeling genuinely fortunate to have him in my life.

Mike reaches into his pocket and produces two ring boxes, passing one to Nate and the other to Cain.

Nate reveals a ring adorned with three intricately crafted skulls. “For my boys,” Mike declares, his tone carrying a mix of solemnity and brotherly affection.

I watch as Cain opens his box, revealing the same skull ring that seems to shimmer with understated elegance, symbolizing their bond and friendship.

The moment is filled with a sense of loyalty, each ring representing a connection that transcends words. As the three of them slip the rings onto their fingers, a silent pledge of solidarity and support that would endure through whatever life throws their way.

With a nod of appreciation, I marvel at the depth of their friendship.

Mike presents the other ring box. With a gentle flourish, he opens it to reveal a stunning ring with two bands. Locked between the bands are intricately detailed four skulls, their hollow eyes seeming to gaze into the depths of my soul. Between the skulls, delicate roses intertwined, adding a touch of beauty to the dark allure of the design.

I can’t help but gasp at the sight, the craftsmanship and symbolism taking my breath away. Mike’s eyes sparkled with warmth and affection as he reaches for my hand, silently asking for permission to place the ring on my finger.

Without hesitation, I extend my hand towards him, offering my finger as he slides the ring into place. As it settles snugly, a sense of completeness washes over me, as if the ring had always belonged there.

With tears of joy glistening in my eyes, I wrap my arms around Mike, knowing that this ring was not just a piece of jewelry but a promise of a future filled with love.

“These rings signify us. Our loyalty and bond to each other,” he says.

Mike’s words resonate deeply within me. With a mixture of gratitude and emotion swirling in my chest, I get up from my stool and embrace Mike tightly, feeling the strength of our connection solidify with each passing moment.

Nate and Cain join in, surrounding me with their warmth and support. I feel an overwhelming sense of love and belonging knowing that no matter what challenges lay ahead, we will face them together united in our loyalty and unwavering bond.

The day had beena whirlwind of laughter and adventure, the hours slipping by like grains of sand through an hourglass. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the tranquil lake, we returned to the main house, our spirits light and our hearts full from a day well spent.

In the intimate glow of the fireplace, Cain and I nestle on the soft, fluffy rug in front of it. The crackling flames cast flickering shadows across the room as we settled into our cozy sanctuary. Mike and Nate, worn out from the day’s excitement, are already asleep in the comfort of the bed nearby.

I nestle against Cain between his legs, feeling the warmth of his body against mine. We are just in our underwear.

Cain’s gentle caresses trace patterns on my skin, his touch sending shivers of pleasure through me. I close my eyes, reveling in the sensation as I wrap one arm around his, feeling the steady rise and fall of his chest against my back.

With his head resting on my shoulder, I surrender to the quiet intimacy of the moment.

The sweetness of the chocolate melts on my tongue as Cain gently places it into my mouth. I savor the indulgent treat.

With a mischievous glint in my eye, I lean close to Cain, my voice barely above a whisper. “What did Rae whisper in Nate’s ear?” I ask, unable to contain my curiosity any longer.

Cain responds with a quiet chuckle, his lips turn up in amusement. “If we hurt you, she will kill us,” he whispers back, his tone tinged with both humor and sincerity.

I can’t help but scoff at Rae’s fierce protectiveness. Laughing softly, I turn my head to his, kissing his cheek tenderly. At that moment, surrounded by the crackling fire and the gentle embrace of Cain’s arms, I feel truly loved and cherished.

“I love you, princess,” Cain whispers in my ear.

“I love you, too,” I whisper back, my voice barely above a breath with my gaze locking with his.

At that moment, as I look into his eyes, I feel as if I am seeing him for the first time. The flickering flames of the fire cast dancing shadows across his face, illuminating his eyes with a mesmerizing glow. I notice the subtle hues of color that dance within them, reflecting the fire’s vibrant glow.

Cain’s following words wash over me like a gentle wave, their sincerity and depth echoing in the quiet intimacy of the room. “When I’m with you, it’s like all the pain of my past just fades away. It’s as if nothing else matters except you.” His voice is filled with tenderness, revealing a vulnerable side he rarely shows.

Tears prick at the corners of my eyes, filling me with a profound sense of love and gratitude.

I tenderly kiss his lips with a soft smile, pouring all my love and devotion into the simple gesture.

The crackling of the fire provides a soothing backdrop as Cain and I embrace in comfortable silence, content to bask in each other’s presence simply. It’s a moment of tranquility.

Cain breaks the silence with a gentle question. “What would you like to do tomorrow?” he asks, his eyes searching mine for any hint of desire or preference.

I ponder for a moment before replying, a smile playing at the corners of my lips. “Well, I’m going to meet Amara in the morning at the hardware store as I want to give the guesthouse a fresh lick of paint,” I explain.

“Ok, princess. Did you want to go out for dinner tomorrow night?”

A soft smile tugs at my lips as I nod in agreement. “That would be nice,” I reply.

The peaceful atmosphere is interrupted by Nate’s snoring, a sudden noise that breaks the tranquility of the moment. Cain and I exchange a glance and start quietly giggling.