Kiara After Lucinda is checked into the hospital, I settle in the waiting room while they work on her. I told them I was visiting my boyfriend's aunt and found her passed out in the bed with blood everywhere. Lucinda told her that she doesn't live with anyone else, so she must've gotten high, hit her head, and managed to crawl into bed. I'm not sure how much the nurses believed our story, but so far everything seems okay. I still can't believe I'm covering for an abuser. Every part of me is screaming to tell them the truth, but I'd be betraying both Trey and Lucinda. What can I do when the woman being abused doesn't want to turn in her abuser because as fucked up as the situation is, she loves him? It has to be codependence or something that tethers her to him. There has to be a way to get her away from him, at least for a while, to show her that she can survive without him. I refuse to turn a blind eye. Everything okay, Cupcake? I smile at the text mess
Kiara After a quiet moment, I finally speak, jealousy gnawing at me. "Is it normal for women to flirt with you so aggressively?" I ask, bitterness seeping into my voice. He casually shrugs and responds, "They're not you, so it doesn't bother me. Did it make you jealous?" I quickly stand up, my hands raised in a defensive gesture. "Wait, no! I didn't mean it like that. I just thought it was unprofessional and disrespectful if I were actually your...you know, girlfriend," I stumble over the last word. He angles his head, studying me. "It's alright to say you were jealous. I'd feel the same if some guy was hitting on you." I let out a frustrated sigh. "I already said I wasn't jealous-" He urgently kisses me, trapping me against the wall. His kiss is fervent, as if assuring me that I'm his and there's no need to worry. The way he's kissing me, if I wanted to run around this hospital screaming my claim on him, he would only welcome it. Someone clears t
Trey "Bring something to cover your arms. It's going to be cold." "Fall just started. We've got a few weeks before it gets cold," Kiara calls out from the bathroom. I walk into the bathroom and find her putting on mascara. She catches my gaze in the mirror. I chuckle, "Suite yourself, but if you start freezing your ass off, don't ask me for mine." The thought of her wearing my hoodie has my cock pitching a huge tent in my sweatpants. "Fine, but I thought you were a gentleman," she says jokingly, sticking her tongue out. If anything, I want to be the opposite of a gentleman. I want to fuck her so hard...so dirty, she screams my name until she loses her voice. I fight a smile, "Not when you're being hard-headed, Cupcake." She walks past me to put her makeup back in her bag. "Enjoyed the show?" she teases. I thought she noticed my boner, but it's hidden underneath my hoodie. She must be talking about me watching her put on makeup. "You know, you don't need make
Trey The bleaches aren't crowded, but there are enough people in the stands for the team to not feel like they're complete trash this year. I notice William sitting at the top of the bleachers by himself, his eyes set on the field. We sit a little farther down. "You think she went to rehab?" Kiara whispers. I kind of expected she'd ask that. Her and Lucinda seemed to bond that day, even though Lucinda clearly pushed her away. I get it, she wants to believe Lucinda got help. But unless she really wanted it, she probably went back to the trailer after leaving the hospital. She already turned down our help, so I'm sure she did the same with the doctor. "Or he just didn't want anyone to see what he did to her," I reply honestly. She frowns, but stays silent. It's time for kickoff! The teams rush onto the field, with the cheerleaders attempting to pump up the crowd. The kicker sends the ball soaring into the opponent's territory, and the players scatter in every direction.
TreyWilliam keeps glancing back like he expects me to hit him or something. After he gets in his truck, I say, "drive safely and tell Lucinda I said hi." His entire face deflates. "S-She hasn't come back. She decided to go to rehab," he mutters. Kiara will be happy to hear that! I shove my hands into the pockets of my sweatpants, feeling awkward. I've never seen him look like a sad, lost puppy before. It's...unsettling. "Maybe you should consider...similar options for yourself." I don't want to set him off with the word "help". Surprisingly, he just nods, slams his door, and zooms out of the parking lot. I walk back to the bleachers and see that the game is over. Kiara and Mom are waiting for Jeremiah to change. I resist the temptation to hug her and just stand nearby, stealing glances at her. J finally comes over to us, disappointment clear in his eyes. He really wanted to see William, but he puts on a fake smile for us...well, mostly for Mom. "Great game, Jerry,"
Kiara After completing the final step of the revision process, I send my manuscript to three different publishing houses. The thought of being rejected again lingers in the back of my mind, whispering doubts about my future as a writer. I mean, if it happens, I'll still have some time before I run out of money, but what happens if I don't get a book contract before I'm broke? I'll end up on the street, begging my parents to move back in while I hear Lavender and Jordan fucking every night in the next room. The thought curdles my stomach, the ramen I just ate threatening to come back up. No! I've been through enough with that whole situation, I will not allow them to ruin my life any more than they have. I just have to believe my writing is good enough this time. I glance up from the couch as Trey strolls in with the biggest grin on his face, like he hasn't just worked six long hours at his restaurant. Business seems to be booming since he followed my advice and redid his me
KiaraThe air pulsates with vibrant energy, a large group of people on the dancefloor spinning, dipping, flipping, and shit. I watch in amazement, swaying along to the music. There's not one person there that doesn't look like they're having the time of their lives. "Do you wanna dance?" He reaches his hand out to me and I take it, feeling a jolt of energy. My heart is racing as he pulls me to the dance floor and envelopes me in his arms. "I don't know how to dance," I admit, nervously biting my lip. "No problem. I'll teach you," he whispers close to my ear. How does he even know how to do this? Oh yeah, they probably do this shit every day in Texas. His eyes hold a mix of confidence and excitement as he places one hand on my waist and the other holds mine. "Relax and follow my lead," he instructs with a warm smile. He takes a step and I mirror it, deciding to trust him completely. If I fall and bust my ass, I know he'll catch me. As the dance unfolds, the music en
Kiara I stop thinking about the moves and let the music guide me. The energy in the room is infectious as I start moving in sync with everyone else. When I dip and raise myself off the floor, I catch Trey watching me from across the room, a smirk playing on his perfect lips. Damn, I almost forgot about him. I think about just stopping, but I might as well finish the song. With him watching me, I feel bolder, sexier even. I continue performing the moves with assurance, my eyes locked on him the entire time. His amusement gradually morphs into lust as he watches me twirl and sway my hips. My body hums with need under his heated gaze, but I manage to keep my focus. The people dancing around me hype my head up with whoops and cheers. "Attagirl!" "Okay, we see you!" It's been a long time since I've had this much fun. I'm actually grateful that Trey brought me here! Candy and I never did things like this, but we'll definitely have to start...if she ever comes back from New Yo
Kiara I take her tiny hand in mine and lead her inside the house. When she sees Trey, she runs to him. "Grandpa, I missed you!" "VioletPie!" Trey responds with equal enthusiasm, scooping her up and swinging her up into his arms. I smile at the adorable interaction, my heart warming at the bond they share. I thought Trey couldn't get sexier as a chef, but watching him be a father and grandfather is everything. He is so kind and patient with kids, you'd never think he used to be a menace in high school. As I glance at the clock, I realize that TJ, his husband, and two daughters should arrive soon. Winston and his wife recently welcomed a baby, so we're giving them space to adjust to their new family dynamic. Candice and Cassie will probably be late, but they always show up eventually. As for Jeremiah, who now lives in Texas with his wife, we won't be seeing him today, but he'll most likely come down for Christmas. William peacefully passed away in his sleep five years ag
Kiara "Cupcake, they'll be here soon!" Trey's voice calls from downstairs where the delicious smell of food permeates the house. "Shit, I'm coming!" I shout back, quickly submitting my manuscript to my editor—the sixtieth and final book of my writing career. I decided that it's time I retire and enjoy some well-deserved adventures with my husband. Next week we're going to Hawaii for our thirtieth-year anniversary, and the idea of peace and relaxation fills me with excitement. As I walk through the hallway towards the stairs, I can't help but glance at the wall adorned with a collage of photos of our family. Trey and I have faced many obstacles together, but despite it all, we've achieved so much. What did Maggie used to call us? Oh yeah...a power couple. Yeah, I think we've lived up to that nickname. Each photo on the wall serves as a testament to our resilience and everlasting love that has carried us through every twist and turn of our journey together. My eyes
TreyThe remainder of the night unfolds beautifully. Following dinner, Kiara and I take to the dance floor for our first dance, swaying to "You Are The Reason" by Leona Lewis and Calum Scott. After we return to our seats, everyone starts running to the dance floor. Meanwhile, Magnolia peacefully sleeps in Kiara's arms as we watch them dance. I can't help but smile as a sense of contentment washes over me. The room is filled with laughter and smiles and infectious energy of people just reveling in the moment — exactly what I had hoped for. "Can I hold her?" Williams asks eagerly, reaching out for his granddaughter with a twinkle of adoration in his eyes. Kiara beams. "Of course. We're about to go dance anyway, right Trey?" I nod. She made sure there were multiple songs in our playlist that we could line dance to. After carefully passing Magnolia into his arms, ensuring not to disturb her sleep, Kiara seizes my hand. "Let's go, Candice!" she exclaims, her excitement
Trey "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride," the minister declares, his voice ringing through the chapel. We had planned to get married before our daughter was born, but at twenty eight-weeks pregnant, she tried to come early, and Kiara was put on bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy. It was a rough ass time for her, but of course, my amazing wife managed to get through it and successfully deliver our healthy nine-pound baby. For someone who didn't let her Mama eat much without throwing up, she sure weighed a lot. Hand in hand, surrounded by our family and guests, we stroll down the aisle, cheers mingling with the soft patter of rice raining down on us. With 'Lux Temptations' on the same block as the chapel, we decided that everyone would walk there together. Of course, It only made sense for us to have the reception at our restaurant, the best in Virginia. My staff volunteered their time and effort today to cater my wedding as l
Kiara I feign a pout at the command. "But I want to make the demands tonight." He smacks my ass as I move into position, causing me to giggle, "Okay, okay. I'm sorry, Chef." Trey's fingers softly graze over my skin, making me shiver in anticipation as he trails all the way from the nape of my neck to my pussy. Then, I feel him spit on my asshole, and I moan as I feel it drip down. He hums as if he's contemplating something. "Are you sure you can handle me fucking you hard tonight, Cupcake?" Always. "Yes, Sir," I whimper needily. He smacks my ass again. "What? I didn't hear you." "Yes, Sir!" I say louder. Hoping it makes him lose control, I wiggle my ass for him. Obviously it works because he grips my hips and impales me with his cock. He grabs my ponytail tightly, using it as a reign as he pounds into me. "H-Holy...holy...s-shitttt," I stammer, my fingers clawing at the sheets as he demolishes my pussy. There's something about pregnancy that makes sex so much more amazi
Kiara I needed this. His touch brings back the peace that was disrupted when we went to my parents house. I expected a bad reaction, but nowhere as explosive as my mom was. There's a chance she may not want to be in our lives after today, but honestly, I think I'm okay with that. I'm tired of trying to live up to her expectations just because the life she chose to live wasn't fulfilling to her. I won't make the same mistake. I know for certain that even if she doesn't show up for me and my daughter, I have people that will. Once we return downstairs, the aroma of pizza fills the air. William, Jeremiah, and Candice are sitting at the table, engaged in conversation and laughter. Candice waves us over with a smile. "Hey guys, we were just talking about a weekly game night or something, at least until you have the baby," she suggests enthusiastically. I smile. "I love that idea. What do you think?" I ask Trey. He smirks in response. "Hell yeah, but we're not playing S
Kiara I'm rendered speechless as we step into the house, marveling at all of the changes they've made. Despite the remodeling, Maggie's home still exudes the same cozy warmth it always has. When Trey mentioned he had a surprise for me, one that would be revealed once it was completed, I suspected that it was a house or something. Never did I anticipate that it would be Maggie's. Yet, I'm so damn happy and grateful that it is. It somehow makes me feel even closer to her knowing we'll live in the same space that she raised her children in. Soon, we'll be raising our own children here. "You guys did this yourselves?" I ask, pausing in the dining room, my eyes resting on Maggie's table, the very one I've eaten countless meals or sat talking with Maggie. "William, J, and I did all the hard work," Trey beams, "and, of course, Candy did all of the interior decorating." Candy slaps her brother's arm. "Just so you know, that was hard too, asshole," she laughs, shooting him a pl
Trey "I love my girls so much," I murmur, feeling a lump form in my throat from the overwhelming rush of love and pride bursting from my chest. Kiara sniffles, her voice thick with emotion. "We love you too." Suddenly, my phone vibrates, breaking the tender moment. Glancing at the screen, the text says, "it's done." I kiss her passionately, savoring her lips before I pull a blindfold out of my pocket and reach over to cover her eyes, gently tying it behind her head. "What's this for?" she asks, grinning. "Time for the surprise you've been waiting so impatiently for," I say, my voice brimming with excitement as I pull out of her parent's driveway. My heart races, imagining how she's going to react when I reveal the long-awaited surprise. I really hope she loves it. It's not long before we pull up at a familiar address, although the house has been completely transformed in the past four months. "We're here," I announce, swallowing hard as I step out of the car. The
TreyAll eyes shift to Kiara, a thick tension growing in the room as they wait for her to speak. Her mouth opens and closes, but she seems unable to form the words. Glancing up at me, her face flushed with distressed, she screams for help with her eyes. I squeeze her hand to let her know that everything's alright. Clearing my throat, and stand up. Who knows why; maybe it's because I'm accustomed to making announcements this way at my restaurant. "We're having a little girl together," I say proudly, unable to contain my grin. Although I can hardly believe it myself, I've heard her little heartbeat and watched her suck her thumb at the last ultrasound. To say I'm over the moon is a fucking understatement. I feel the peace in the room pop like a bubble. Her father stares at us in stunned silence. The color drains from her ex's face and he looks as if he may be stick to his stomach that it's with me and not him. Meanwhile, her sister bursts out laughing, the sound echoing through t