by Stella Brie
Slipping from the bed, I put on my robe and head to the kitchen. Lev keeps the fridge packed with yummy things to eat. After pouring a glass of water, I open the fridge to look for a snack.
Mmm...pie.
Pulling out a dark chocolate and caramel cream cheese pie, I cut a slice and prop myself up on the bar stool to eat.
Silky smooth decadence explodes on my tongue. Damn, that man creates perfection. I savor each bite as a myriad of thoughts run through my head.
I wonder how Sarah’s night went? If I know her, she’s a well-satisfied woman tonight. She might not be able to walk tomorrow, but meh, walking’s overrated.
Can’t say I’m doing too bad myself as I think about the last two hours with Lowell.
Hmm...huh.
I slide the last piece of pie in my mouth, my tongue licking every bit from the fork.
“I’ve never envied a fork in my life until now.” A smooth voice wraps around me.
Startled, I swing around to watch Thayer enter the room. Puzzled, I tilt my head as I consider his wheelchair. I didn’t hear any whirring.
He taps the arm. “Manual.”
“Why did you switch?”
“Because you flinched whenever you heard me coming. Even after being around me for the last few months, it still bothered you.”
Knowing he’s right, I can’t help feeling relieved at the change. “It’s more work for you, though.”
“My doctor felt it would be fine now, given my recent results.”
He rolls further into the kitchen, and I almost fall off the barstool. Wearing only a pair of black shorts, all I see is miles of golden skin. My heart stops before I realize he’s actually wearing a brief pair of shorts. And do I mean brief. I allow my eyes to travel over every inch of him, cataloguing the slightest detail. He’s beautiful. His chest is broad, tapering down to lean but muscular abs. Although his legs look a bit slim right now, surprisingly, they’ve retained quite a bit of muscle.
Lean muscles ripple and biceps bulge with effort as he maneuvers the wheelchair up to me. Given that he’s also covered in a slight sheen, I guess he’s been working out.
“If you don’t stop looking at me like that, I won’t be responsible for the consequences,” he rasps, shifting his body. “Especially with you wearing that very brief, very sexy robe that’s doing a piss poor job of covering you.”
Registering his words, I look down to find he’s right. Wiggling, I try to pull it down to cover me, but it ends up gaping open at the top and flashing Thayer. I hear him groan.
“Love, stop wiggling, you’re killing me.” His hand motions to his lap.
My eyes drift down to his lap, his hard cock peeking out of the top of his shorts. Licking my suddenly dry lips, I ponder what he looks like. Is he long? Thick? I wonder how he tastes? While I’m contemplating his cock, his hand reaches into his shorts and pulls it out. Sucking my bottom lip in, I almost whimper at the sight.
Mesmerized, I watch as he gives it a long stroke. “Do you like what you see?” His voice is gruff as he waits for my reply.
“Yes,” I whisper. “You’re beautiful.” My hands twitch to touch him. I need it like the air I’m barely breathing.
Widening his legs, he gives his cock a few more strokes. “Love, I need to see you, too. Open your robe.”
My fingers untie the belt, without a second’s thought. I’m so caught up in watching him, I can’t bear for him to stop. His hand squeezes the base hard when he gets a glimpse of my body.
“Shit, this might be quicker than I want. You’re gorgeous, love. I want to touch and lick every inch of you. Starting with those gorgeous breasts and ending with a feast on that sweet pussy.” He groans as he strokes harder. “Beautiful, so fucking beautiful.” His fist glides to the top of the head, captures the bead of moisture, and then with a flick of his wrist strokes down his shaft. His breath is harsh as he works his cock.
Setting a foot on the side rungs of the barstool, I open wide. Using my fingers, I spread myself even further so he can see how wet I am. With my other hand, I stroke up and down my slit before sliding in two fingers. Moaning, I hold still, waiting for his command.
“Fuck, that’s it. Oh, to be in that sweet, wet pussy. Show me how you want me to fuck you.”
His hand is moving rapidly now as he gets closer to coming. My fingers mimic his movements, thrusting in and out. My body tightens as I near the peak. Although I’m close, it’s almost mindless, as I’m focused on him. A sharp cry escapes as my orgasm comes on suddenly. Bowing slightly, I lock eyes with Thayer as the waves roll through me.
“Yes, love. So fucking sweet.” Moaning, his fist is lightning fast now. “I’m just about there with you.” My eyes swing up to his briefly before dropping back down. I don’t want to miss a second.
“Then come, Thayer. Come for me.” My low voice is seemingly a trigger as he groans low. His abs tense, and he comes hard, shooting onto his stomach. I listen as he breathes heavily, lost in the moment for a second.
Giving him time to recover, I get up and grab some wet paper towels. Walking over to his wheelchair, I hold them out to him. Once he finishes cleaning up, he captures my hand and tugs me down to sit on his lap.
“Love, tell me this means you’ll give me a chance? I know I was an asshole, but I know you now. And knowing how you treat my brothers, I would be a lucky bastard if you decide to let me be a part of your life.”
I lean down and capture his lips in a kiss, stealing his breath and giving him mine in return. My desire is deep, my emotions overflowing. Drawing back, I linger, staring into his blue eyes.
“I’m so fucking greedy. I see you, Thayer. And I want you. The doctor. The friend. The man. Yes, I’ll give you, us, a chance.”
His hand reaches into my hair and tugs me down to meet his kiss. “Thank you, love. You won’t regret it.”
Wrapped in his arms, I feel complete. As if my heart has all its pieces now.
CHAPTER 45
KATE
December came roaring in last week with a blizzard. Being from a milder climate, it was awe inspiring to see Mother Nature wipe the land clean in a matter of hours. I’ve been in Montana ten months now, and it feels like home. I can’t imagine living anywhere else, especially not without them.
Thayer and I have been taking things slow physically due to his recovery, but even with our rocky beginning, I’m equally in love with him as I am with my other three men. He’s still arrogant and pushy, but he would go to the ends of the Earth for those he loves, including me.
Tonight, we’re all headed out to the Cattleman’s Christmas Ball, in Helena. It’s the first time we’ll attend an event together, and I’m incredibly nervous. According to Shaw, all the ranchers in the state are invited to attend, so that means literally everyone will be there. It’s been a long time since I was around a huge crowd of people.
Shaw and Lev went up early to talk to other ranchers about the vineyard they planted on the property. Lowell’s been holed up in his room, finishing his first draft, while Thayer’s been writing an article on his condition for a medical journal.
And I have been getting ready. Buckling the straps on my shoes, I step up to the mirror and survey the results. I smile with satisfaction. They are not going to know what hit them. The dress is two pieces designed to look like one. The top is a strapless, black lace bustier. The bottom is a full, green satin skirt that hangs to the floor, with a slit on one side to the top of the thigh. Formal, but sexy. Black strappy high heels complete the picture.
Stepping out from Shaw’s bedroom, I head towards the living room to wait for Lowell and Thayer. The car should be arriving in fifteen minutes, which leaves me enough time to have a glass of wine.
Standing in front of the window, a long, low whistle sounds from behind me. Turning around, I find both Lowell and Thayer in the doorway. In black tuxedos. Damn, I love a man in a tuxedo. Two men in a tuxedo? Do we need to go to this damn ball?
“Damn, love, you look gorgeous.
” Thayer pushes himself to me so he can give me a kiss.
“Thanks, handsome.” He tries to pull me into his lap, but I hold him off. “It took me ages to get ready.” I lean down and give him a kiss, savoring the taste of him.
“Umm, love, you may not want to bend over in the dress.” His hands caress the tops of my breasts that have risen out of the bustier.
“Oops.” I cup them and tuck them in, making both men groan.
Lowell steps forward. “I am not going to be able to get that sight out of my mind for a while, my dear. You look beautiful.” Winking, he reaches out and slips a finger into my cleavage and uses the bustier as leverage to pull me forward and give me one of his restrained kisses.
A ping alerts us to the car service’s arrival. Grabbing my black velvet cape and clutch, we head out. A large black SUV sits waiting in the driveway. I settle in the back seat with Lowell and Thayer.
Shaw and Lev booked a hotel room for us tonight, so they’ll get ready there and meet us at the entrance to the ballroom.
My fingers convey my nervousness with their restless movement. Catching Lowell’s eyes, I notice he’s staring at my hands and frowning. I know I’m fidgeting, but I can’t help it. His long fingers reach out and pull my hand into his. Clasping it to him, he stares out at the window. A moment later, and I feel Thayer take my other hand. My nerves settle for now.
Arriving at the ball, Lowell steps out first, then helps both me and Thayer out of the vehicle. Entering the hotel, we head towards the coat check first. I notice the hotel is crowded with women and men spectacularly dressed. Wow, this is definitely THE event.
After handing them our coats, we stroll towards the ballroom. Thayer has been busy texting Shaw since we got here, and they find us quickly.
“Damn, sweetheart. You look good enough to eat.” Lev swoops down in his usual style and pulls me in for a full body hug. Giving me a sweet kiss on the lips, he hands me off to Shaw.
“He’s right. You look incredible.” Shaw’s hand cups my shoulder as he leans down to give me a soft kiss.
Stepping back to look at all four of them, I fan myself dramatically. “I’m a damn lucky woman tonight to have four incredibly handsome men as my escorts. Let me get a picture with all of you in it. And then we’ll get someone to take our picture together.” After snapping a few pictures, we finally get into the ballroom and to our table.
The first part of the event is dinner, followed by a silent auction for charity. I bid secretly on a few items for their Christmas, and I’m excited to hear I won my bids. Tucking the details into my clutch, I head back to the table.
Their voices are low, but they seem to be having a heated discussion when I walk up, “What’s going on?”
“Nothing, sweetheart. We’re just ironing a few things out.” Lev gives me a grin.
Raising my eyebrow, my eyes settle on each one of them, but they say nothing more. Setting my clutch down on the table, I turn to Lowell. “Let’s dance.” His green eyes sparkle as he quickly stands. Taking my hand, he smoothly twirls me on to the dance floor.
While we dance, I notice we’re getting a lot of puzzled looks. My nerves get the best of me. When people are puzzled, they’re usually trying to work out why I look so familiar. I stumble. Lowell glances down in surprise.
“Are you okay, my dear?” Seeing my white face, he pulls me off the dance floor. “What is it? Are you sick?”
“What? I...I’m fine. I need to go to the ladies room. Please excuse me. I’ll meet you back at the table.” Without waiting for a reply, I turn and walk away, leaving him standing there, watching me.
Splashing cold water on my face, I try to get my nerves under control. This is the first big event I’ve attended since the shooting. All I can think about is what will happen if someone recognizes me. People have a tendency to be extreme in their reactions, and I don’t want to ruin our first evening out together. Taking a few deep breaths, I exhale slowly and get myself under control. Dabbing my face, I square my shoulders and step out into the hallway.
A lady, entering the bathroom, stops when she sees me. I tense.
“Excuse me,” she calls out.
“Yes?” Maybe she’s just looking for someone.
“Are you with Thayer Bradford tonight?”
My shoulders relax. “Yes, I am.” Oh, great, an ex-whatever of Thayer’s. Looking her over, I almost snort at Thayer’s type. A buxom brunette, with a painted-on dress, dripping in diamonds.
“Such a shame what happened to him. What that man could do with his...equipment, if you get what I mean, will truly be missed.”
“He’s not dead. His ‘equipment’ works very well,” I snap. “In fact, I’m exhausted from last night. I would tell you about it, but honestly, it doesn’t matter because he’s off the market. Now, if you will excuse me.”
“What about Shaw or that hunky Lev?” she blurts out as I start to step around her.
Speechless, I stare at her. Fury rises, but I push it down. After all, I can appreciate the fact that my men are attractive.
“Let’s be clear, shall we?” I explain. “They’re all mine. Thayer, Lev, Lowell, and Shaw. Off the market. Permanently. I’m claiming them. All of them. So go tell your friends, and get out of my way.”
Her face reddens. “Four men? Isn’t that a bit...sluttish?”
“Oh, honey, you’re just jealous. Why don’t you run off and find your own harem? Might take the sour look off your face. I’ve got my men, and I couldn’t be happier.” It’s her turn to be speechless as I turn to walk away.
Stopping, I stare. All four of my men are standing behind me, grinning. Along with about two dozen other people. Mortified, I walk into Shaw’s arms and hide my face.
“Shit, I’m sorry, Shaw.” His shoulders are shaking with laughter.
“Angel, we’re the envy of every man here tonight. You just loudly claimed us to be yours and permanently off the market. They should be so lucky.” His voice is husky as he coaxes me to raise my head.
“Personally, love, I’m ecstatic that you defended my cock so rigorously,” Thayer’s voice is full of glee as he tells me. I look down and roll my eyes.
“Sweetheart, you just made me the happiest man alive. Don’t back down now.” Lev gives me a swift kiss while I’m still in Shaw’s arms.
Glancing at Lowell, I notice the stern look on his face. “What is it?”
“Why were you so nervous tonight? I...we thought you were nervous about being seen with all of us. But that doesn’t seem to be the case. What’s going on?” he questions me.
Sighing, I realize how it must have looked. “I would never be nervous about being with all of you.” Looking around at the people, I shiver. “Part of me can’t help worrying someone will recognize me. In an event this large, I was afraid if it happened, they would cause a big scene and ruin the evening. I’ve avoided events the last few years because of it.” They all converse silently, and I just cross my arms and wait.
Lowell pushes his glasses up on his nose and stares down at me. “I’m sorry, dear. We didn’t realize because we were caught up in our own fears. We never attended events with Vanessa because she didn’t want anyone to know we were all together. When you said yes to the event, but then you showed signs of nervousness, we thought it might too much of a public statement. We were trying to figure out how to make this easier on you.”
Stepping into his arms, I squeeze him tight, then turn to look at all of them. “I love you. All of you. I don’t care what others think. You’re mine, and I’m not letting you go.” And with a decisive nod, I promise them, “And from now on, I’m done with living in fear. And you are, too. We’re all moving forward together.”
Shaw’s voice is filled with gravel when he agrees. “You’re it for us, too, Angel. We love you, more than we thought it possible to love someone.”
Feeling lighter, I laugh. “Didn’t someone say we had hotel room tonight? Let’s take this celebration somewhere a bit more private. Shall we?”
After all the heartache and violence from the past, I’ve finally found my salvation with the men of my dreams, and they’ve found theirs with me. I want to pinch myself some days, but if this is a dream, I don’t want to wake up. Instead, I hold tight to them, and to their love. And they hold tight right back.
THANK YOU!
THANK YOU FOR READING! I hope you enjoyed this book. If you could leave a review, that would be awesome. I’d love to hear what you thought about the story.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
STELLA BRIE LIVES OUTSIDE of Nashville, TN, with her husband and golden retriever, Bailey. After mentioning her desire to write a book a million times to her husband, he challenged her to sit down one day and write a paragraph. Just one paragraph. The paragraph quickly turned into a serial short story and with the launch of her first book, My Salvation, her dream of becoming a writer is real.
Deciding to trade in her career in digital marketing, working on big brands, for this wildly creative one, she’s ready to write her next book or two. Armed with a notebook crammed full of ideas, she skims all the possibilities, landing on her two favorites full of paranormal creatures and magic, bold heroines, sexy men and HEAs.
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