TreyAs Kiara and I step into Mom's house, the aroma of a home-cooked dinner fills the air. Candice arrived before us, perched on the kitchen counter while Mom finishes cooking, both of them drinking large glasses of wine. From her perch on the counter, Candy glances at us for only a second, grimacing before looking back down at the glass in her hand. I guess she's truly willing to set aside her grudge with Mom because she believes my relationship is about to crash and burn. Jokes on her; I'm not even proposing tonight. But I can see just how petty she can be now. Mom's face lights up with an ear-to-ear smile at the sight of Kiara, and she rushes over to give her a warm hug. "There's my future daughter-in-law!" she exclaims. In my periphery, I catch Candy rolling her eyes. "Smells good in here, Mama. Need any help?" I inquire, planting a gentle kiss on Kiara's forehead before releasing her to mingle with my family. Even though I volunteered to cook and bring dinner,
Trey "Why don't you put your head back in my brother's ass and go back to minding your business?" Candy's loud voice reverberates through the room, like a clap of thunder demanding attention. They continue going back and forth for a while until Kiara's voice suddenly softens, "Stop fucking deflecting and talk to me, Candy. You've had enough time to wallow in self-pity." "Fine," she shouts, throwing up her hands. "Patricia was seeing someone else the entire time, and I was so embarrassed, I unwillingly shared her with the other girl just to avoid coming right back home. Is that what you wanted to hear? Are you happy now?" The confession hangs in the air for a moment before Jeremiah interjects, "You know, Mom, you should stop drinking. If Dad managed to stop, you can too." Fuck. A surge of tension courses through my body, but I maintain a neutral mask. Despite its unexpected arrival, I knew this day was inevitable. Not on Christmas Eve, but inevitable nonetheless.
Kiara The scent of breakfast greets me even before I open my eyes, enveloping me in a familiar embrace that reminds me of Christmas mornings from my childhood. I swiftly get out of bed and throw on some pajamas, just in case Candice returned in the early hours of the morning. I haven't felt this excited in years. Even with Jordan, when we used to visit his parents' house, it served as a stark reminder of their wealth. The large amounts of money they spent on decorations and gifts could likely sustain a small country. I step out of the bedroom to discover Trey, standing at the stove, wearing only a red apron. His muscular ass flexes as he expertly flips a pancake onto a plate. "Well, damn. Merry Christmas to me," I giggle, wrapping my arms around his waist. He chuckles warmly, "Merry Christmas, Cupcake. You were sleeping so peacefully, I didn't want to wake you." Glancing at the clock on the stove, I notice that it's almost noon. That's what happens when you spend all nig
Kiara After offering Santa his fill of my milk and cookies, we settle down to watch "Home Alone" and "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." As the night deepens, we change into some warm clothes. Then, Trey prepares hot chocolate, filling thermoses for our Christmas lights adventure. Excitement courses through me as we drive through the illuminated streets, the colorful displays creating a magical atmosphere. As we pull up to the Botanical Garden, I find myself practically bouncing with anticipation. However, I notice a subtle shift in Trey's mood. He seems...nervous. I wonder if he's concerned about whether I'll be satisfied with our plans or if the disappointment from my family being sick is still on his mind. "Is everything okay, Trey?" I ask, my voice filled with genuine concern. "Of course, Cupcake." I can tell he's lying immediately. It tugs at my heart, but I decide to leave it alone, respecting his space. Perhaps there's something on his mind that he's not ready to share,
Trey I wake up alone. Kiara is two weeks into her month-long book tour, and while I'm incredibly proud of her, the absence weighs on me. I truly miss her like crazy. It has been four months since we got engaged, and despite the distance, our connection remains strong, cocooned within the walls of our peaceful little bubble. Our families may still be a mess, but they're happy for us despite our differences. Candice moved back in with Mom right after Christmas, and I usually check in with a call once a week. Not that I'm complaining; I'm glad to have my place back to myself for just me and my fiancée to enjoy. Like every morning since she's been away, I Facetime Kiara before she begins her day. She answers on the second ring. "Good morning, Cupcake," I smirk, holding my face up in the camera. "Good morning, Chef," she says, rubbing her eyes and yawning. "I was about to call you. I have a book signing to go to in like an hour, but the town car will be here in thirty." Damn,
Trey Dinner service is busy tonight, but nothing we can't handle. To distract myself from the ache of missing Kiara, I throw myself into the chaos of the kitchen, juggling dishes and engaging with guests. "How's your fiancée doing?" Alex asks, expertly plating dishes in an assembly line fashion. "Good. She's in New York right now." A proud grin creeps across my face as I boast about my girl—the love of my life, the one who completes my world. "I finally got around to reading her book. That shit was hot!" he exclaims. "Had to recommend it to a few of my girls." "I know," I say with a smirk. I read both the manuscript she sent me months ago and was the first to receive a hard copy of her book. Even if I weren't her fiancé, I would say it definitely deserves the attention it's getting. I'm sure she'll be receiving some literary awards or something shortly. They give those for smutty novels, right? The rhythmic clattering in the kitchen is interrupted by a sudden comm
Kiara I dab my mouth with a napkin, watching as the remnants of my breakfast spiral down the toilet. As my tour nears its end with only a week remaining, I've been feeling like shit the past few days. Perhaps it's the extended time away from home or the overwhelming desire to see my fiancé. Despite Trey's offer to fly out and support me following Lucinda's passing, I insisted that he stay and continue to help with William's sobriety. I was really depressed about it for several days. Sure, I thought maybe she might relapse once or twice before she got better, but the reality surpassed my darkest expectations. The very thought of her brings an ache to my heart, yet I cling to the hope that if an afterlife exists, she has been reunited with her daughter. The whirlwind of my book tour has provided a welcome distraction from everything, except for the persistent nausea and vomiting I've been experiencing. With every passing day, I find myself in a new city, immersed in diverse e
Kiara My eyes flutter open to the sterile white walls of a hospital room, the faint hum of machines, and the concerned faces of Luxury and Simon by my side. "W-What happened?" I groan, lifting my arm to notice an IV and a heart rate monitor attached to it. The last thing I remember is attempting to stand up, and then the world plunged into darkness. "You passed out, so we rushed you to the hospital. You really scared the life out of us," Luxury explains, handing me a cup of water. "Here, drink something. They gave you some fluids, but I want to make sure you're okay." I prop myself up a little to take a sip. "Thanks, Luxury. Nobody saw it happen, right?" She shakes her head. "Thankfully, no. It was just us and two of the bookstore staff." How fucking embarrassing. Tears well up in my eyes, escaping in a cascade down my cheeks. "I'm sorry; I don't know what happened," I say, my voice trembling with the weight of sobs. She reaches for my hand, a mix of concern and discom
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