Alissia POV
With a playful smirk, I slip off his lap, stepping back to let his anticipation build, and turn to the wall where the riding crop hangs. I take my time reaching for it, letting him see exactly what’s coming next, his eyes narrowing as I turn back to him with the crop in hand.
"Alissia," he growls. I smile, the leather handle feels warm and familiar in my grip, and I run it slowly up his thigh, watching the way his muscles tense with each inch it travels. He’s trying to hide his reaction, but the light in his eyes betrays him.
I stroke the crop up his chest, tracing a path along his abs, letting it dance over his collarbone, teasing him as he breathes a little faster. Without warning, I flick my wrist, letting the crop tap his shoulder lightly. He stiffens, but there’s a spark in his gaze, his lips pressing into a tight line as he suppresses the smirk I know is fighting to surface.
I climb back onto his lap, feeling the heat r
Blake POVI’ve been at this for well over an hour, digging through every piece of information on Jake with Lucas by my side. We’ve uncovered bits and pieces, small incriminating details here and there, but nothing substantial enough to send him running from Jenni for good. Every promising lead fizzles out, and frustration gnaws at me. Without the option to kill him—since Jenni would inevitably blame Alissia for any “mysterious disappearance”—we’re left with blackmail or some other way to scare him off.Lucas mutters under his breath, frustration clearly getting to him as well. Then, out of nowhere, he chuckles, the sound low and amused. I look up from my screen, curious.“You found something?” I ask, hopeful.“No, but I’d bet anything that, based on how long they’ve been quiet, she’s probably got Demitri under her thumb,” he smirks, eyes glinting with amusement.I g
Blake POVOdell leans back in his cell, putting on an exaggerated pout. “Aw, come on, Lucas. I was really looking forward to having a new toy in here. You can’t just dangle the possibility and take it away. Can’t you work a little magic and get the cutie locked up anyway?”Lucas chuckles, shaking his head. “Who knows, Odell. If he slips up again, he just might end up right where you want him.” With that, he ends the call, slipping his phone back into his pocket.Jake is staring at Lucas with a sickened expression, the reality of what just happened settling heavily on his face. Lucas smirks, a glint of dark amusement in his eyes. “All the best underground men have connections, Jake. Consider this a guarantee—if you go back on the deal, you’ll find yourself kept nice and warm every night by Odell. And he’ll be waiting.”Jake swallows, his face pale as he nods, finally underst
Alissia POVAfter a long soak in the bath, I slip into something comfortable, letting the warmth linger as I step into the main room. Demitri and Axel are seated, heads close together, clearly engrossed in some business matter. I grab my laptop, determined to finally make progress on my story. Writing has been an uphill climb lately, but with a deep breath, I settle in, knowing I can’t put it off any longer.About ten minutes in, I feel restless, my fingers drumming against the keyboard. I close the laptop, needing a small break. “Coffee?” I offer, needing one myself, Demitri’s eyes lift, a soft smile forming.“Sure,” he replies, nodding. I move to the kitchen, pulling out the cups and setting up the coffeemaker. A moment later, strong arms slide around my waist, pulling me back against a familiar chest. My body instantly relaxes, a smile tugging at my lips as Demitri’s hand traces a slow path up the inside of my top, hi
Alissia POVJenni relaxes a bit more, then looks over at my laptop. “So, how’s the story coming along?” she asks, a hint of curiosity brightening her eyes. “Did you get much done today?”I glance at the screen and let out a small laugh. “It’s coming along, I think. A lot of it is inspired by what’s happened recently—though I’m definitely taking some liberties.” I tap the keys absentmindedly, thinking of the fictional twists I’ve added, but there’s a thread of reality that I know she can pick up on.“Is it still about that reckless author who dives into the criminal world to experience it for her book?” she teases. “Trying to understand those three mysterious men?”I chuckle. “Absolutely. She just keeps digging herself in deeper and deeper. It’s more complicated now, though. She’s starting to realize that it’s not just her career on
Alissia POVAs I step into the room, all three of them turn to face me, eyes sharp and expectant.“Where do you think you’re going?” Demitri’s voice is calm but curious.“To grab something to eat,” I say, unable to hold back a grin. “Jenni and I are going to have some food, maybe a few drinks, just to relax.”Demitri raises an eyebrow. “Go to La Dolce.” Demitri looks at me.“We will, so is that a yes?” I ask.“Fine. Just promise me you’re not getting wasted.” Demitri laughs.I hold up my pinky finger, giving him my most innocent smile. “Pinky promise. I’ll keep it classy.”He nods, though his gaze is still assessing. “Alright. Axel will drive you both there and pick you up. You don’t leave that restaurant, understood? If you need anything, call.”“I won’t leave. I promise,” I ass
Alissia POVWe stare at the masterpiece in front of us, both marveling at its presentation. When we finally cut into the crispy shell, the savory aroma that wafts out is heavenly. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors—the smoky salami, the tender meatballs, the melted cheese, and the rich, buttery pastry crust. We eat slowly, savoring each bite, occasionally exchanging looks of awe.“This is… amazing,” Jenni sighs, eyes closed in bliss.“Demitri was right about this place,” I say, thoroughly enjoying the meal. After a moment, I take a deep breath, and Jenni notices the thoughtful look on my face.“So,” she says, arching an eyebrow, “you look like there’s something else you want to share.”A small smile tugs at my lips. “I told them I love them,” I say, watching her eyes light up.“Wait, really? All three of them?”I nod, feeling
Alissia POVI twist my wrists against the ropes, feeling the rough fibers dig into my skin as I fight to keep calm. I know exactly why Kozlov wants me. The rhythm—my uncle’s strange, lilting tune—is the key to the family’s most treasured possession, a gold painting he stole from them. It’s why they’ve been hunting me all this time, why Kozlov couldn’t let me simply disappear. I’d found that old video of my uncle singing it to me when I was a child, and that melody had stayed hidden in my memory, only surfacing when I stumbled upon the video.Kozlov steps back into the room, his eyes dark with calculation as he sizes me up. His mouth curves in a cruel smile, his tone mocking. “Are you ready to be reasonable, Alissia? Or shall I continue to wait while you test my patience?”I meet his gaze, forcing myself to stay steady. “You’re wasting your time. I haven’t interfered with your business.
Alissia POVKozlov leans in close, his eyes glinting with a dark curiosity as he studies me. “Why are you fighting?” His voice is quiet, menacing, but I meet his gaze with a bitter smile.“Why would I give in?” I murmur, refusing to show fear.He straightens, casting a glance at one of his men. “She was with a woman in the restaurant, right? No one else?”The man nods, his voice flat. “Just her and another woman. No one who would come looking.”Kozlov’s lips curl into a satisfied smile as he turns back to me. “And her phone? Was it left behind?”“On the table.” The man shrugs, confident. Kozlov visibly relaxes, reassured.My lips quirk despite myself, and I can’t hold back a smirk. Kozlov catches it, his eyes narrowing, suspicion dawning. He leans closer, his gaze piercing as it sweeps over me.“No… there’s something else. You
Blake POVThe backyard is alive with laughter and music, a celebration buzzing with life. Today is Zaneâs third birthday, and heâs tearing across the lawn, his little legs pumping as he darts between the tables. Not far behind him is Elijah, toddling as fast as he can to keep up with his older brother, his green eyes wide with excitement. I watch them both, my chest tightening with pride and love I never thought Iâd feel.Demitriâs over by the grill, chatting with Axel while flipping burgers, and Lucas is putting up the last of the decorations that Alissia decided we âneededâ at the last minute. As for Alissia, sheâs cradling Keziah in her arms, bottle-feeding her while keeping a close eye on our two sons as they play. The whole scene is something I never dreamed would be mineâkids, family, this sense of belonging that goes deeper than I can put into words.Alissia made sure it was as close to a regular kids party as possible, no overly priced locations, just something simple at home
Demitri POVAs I pace quietly through the kitchen, Keziah nestled soundly in my arms, her tiny breaths soft against my chest, I feel the weight of it allâthe life weâve built, the family weâve created. Axel leans against the door, arms crossed, his expression one of quiet amusement, a glint in his eye that tells me heâs up to something.âWhat, Axel?â I murmur, keeping my voice low to avoid disturbing Keziah.âNothing,â he replies, though the smirk says otherwise. I narrow my eyes at him, and he finally chuckles, unable to hold back. âYou know sheâs three months old now, right?â he says, raising an eyebrow.I frown, not quite following. I grab my coffee, nodding for him to follow me as I head out of the kitchen. âAnd?â I prompt, confused by his insinuation.He shrugs, his grin widening. âI was just thinkingâĶ after Zane was born, you three were so caught up in the whole baby frenzy that you kindaâĶ forgot a key point about Alissia. Next thing we know, Alissiaâs pregnant again, and then w
Alissia POVI donât know how long Iâve been out when a sharp, intense pain jolts me awake. I gasp, clutching my stomach, my heart racing as I try to make sense of whatâs happening. The pain is undeniable, and as it fades, I feel Demitriâs hand on my shoulder, concern etched into his face.âWhatâs wrong?â he asks, eyes wide, and I can feel the tension ripple through the car as Blake and Lucas turn, alarmed.âI thinkâĶâ I pause, sucking in a shaky breath. âI think Iâm in labor.âDemitri stares at me, as if hoping he misheard. âThis better be a joke, Alissia,â he says, his voice a mixture of worry and frustration. âWeâre still an hour away.âI manage a laugh, but it quickly turns into a scream as another contraction hits, the pain searing through me. âOh god, it hurts!â I gasp, squeezing his hand with all my strength.âOkay, okay, donât panic,â Blake says from in front of me, though his voice sounds anything but calm. âLucas, find somethingâanythingâuseful. Blankets, towelsâĶ anything. I'l
Alissia POVI rest my hand on my stomach, feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves flutter beneath my fingertips. My book was published three months after we moved into our new homeâsix months ago now. And here I am, cutting things close to the wire, but there was no way I was going to miss this event, not for anything.Suddenly, I feel strong hands grip my shoulders, gently but firmly pushing me down into a chair. I look up to see Demitri standing over me, a smirk on his face. I glare at him, but he only shrugs and lets out a soft chuckle, clearly unfazed. The room around us is buzzing with energy, filled with authors at their tables displaying all sorts of extravagant setupsâbanners, exclusive bookmarks, even themed merchandise like mini handcuffs andâĶ sex toys. Meanwhile, at my table, thereâs just me and these three men. I have books and such and as well, but it's these three who are the main attraction. It wasnât supposed to be this way, but none of them would even consider stay
Alissia POVThe marble floors beneath my feet are pristine, veined with dark streaks that run through the stone like rivers. In the center, an elaborate medallion design is inlaid, drawing the eye and adding a touch of artistry to the already lavish setting. Along the walls are portraits in gilded frames, each one depicting figures from history or perhaps ancestors Iâll never know. The sconces beside each painting cast a soft, ambient light, illuminating the dark wood paneling that lines the walls and lends an air of timeless elegance.I stand there, awestruck, and feel Demitriâs hand rest lightly on the small of my back, guiding me further inside. âWelcome home,â he murmurs, his voice gentle, yet filled with a pride thatâs unmistakable.Turning to face him, I still canât quite process what Iâm seeing. âThisâĶ all of thisâĶ itâs ours?â I whisper, my voice barely more than a breath.âYes,â Blake chimes in with a grin. âA real home for all of us, and a place where our family can grow.âLu
Alissia POVThis week has been all about immersing myself in my book. The second draft is finally done, and Iâve been piecing together the perspectives of Demitri, Blake, and Lucas, capturing their unique thoughts and emotions. Theyâve been surprisingly helpful, giving me these rare glimpses into their minds during moments I wouldnât otherwise understand. But even though the draft is complete, releasing it isnât quite on the horizon yet. Thereâs one major thing in my life that needs my attention first.Jenni nudges me, breaking my train of thought, and I glance down at the pregnancy test on the bed. âYou know you actually have to look at it to see the results, right?â she teases, her chuckle light but encouraging.I groan, my stomach knotting with anxiety. âThis wasnât in the plan, Jenni! We were supposed to stick to the plan!â My voice is almost a whine, frustration spilling over.âPlanning isnât always necessary, you know,â she laughs, not the least bit fazed. âBut if youâre gonna d
DemitriA week has passed since that date with Alissia, and every night since, Iâve tried to create small, ordinary moments with her. Even if itâs something as simple as sitting quietly with a book for ten minutes, I find myself drawn to carving out these snippets of normalcy for herâand, strangely, for myself too. Itâs a shift that hasnât gone unnoticed.Lucas and Blake have been watching me with a mix of curiosity and confusion, clearly wondering whatâs prompted these small changes. Theyâre not ones to pry, but the unspoken questions in their eyes are obvious. Today, however, some things are going to change, and I need them to be a part of it. Iâve made up my mind, and thereâs no turning back.When our car finally stops, we step out and make our way into the restaurant. The air is thick with the scent of expensive wine and seasoned wood, the atmosphere humming with quiet conversations and the soft clink of glass. Lucas and Blake follow behind, exchanging wary glances as I lead them
Alissia POVI sit on Lucasâs lap, my fingers hovering over the keyboard, absorbing his words, the intensity of his memories, and the raw honesty that drips from every line heâs just written. Thereâs something liberating about letting the story be real, about capturing not just the actions but the emotions beneath themâthe twisted, obsessive need that drove him to act out, to lash back.âGo on,â he murmurs, his voice low and encouraging as he wraps his arm around my waist, anchoring me there. âKeep that line. Let it shape the chapter. Show how I felt, how my control slipped with every message that went unanswered.âHis words sink into me, and I type out a few more lines, allowing myself to step inside his mind, to feel the frustration, the dark hunger that simmered beneath his surface. Lucas watches as I write, his eyes on the screen, reading every word as it takes form. I can feel the intensity in his gaze, like heâs reliving the moment, pulling me deeper into his world.After a while
Alissia POVAfter getting dressed, I step out and spot Lucas in the kitchen, focused and completely at ease, stirring something on the stove. The smell of spices fills the air, warm and inviting.âWhat are you doing?â I ask, hopping up onto the kitchen island to sit and watch him work, swinging my legs slightly.He glances over his shoulder, a small grin forming on his lips. âWell, I figured going out would just mean dealing with people and noise. So I thought weâd spend the night here insteadâjust us,â he says, his voice low and easy, as he turns back to his task. âUnless youâd rather go out?âI shake my head, smiling. âNo, this is perfect.â I mean it, too. I donât need anything extravagant. Being here, just the two of us, feels exactly right. He catches my gaze for a moment, a soft smile crossing his face before he goes back to cooking.He stirs a pot, then glances at me, curiosity lighting his eyes. âHowâs the story coming along?âI groan, rolling my eyes, which makes him chuckle.