Brothers Next Door

by Samantha Twinn

  “You are?” I breathe, not sure what to make of his confession. Does he really mean it, or is this a reaction to the kiss?

  “Of course, I am. I fell in love with you the moment I saw you, even though you almost kicked me. But Tyler is in love with you, too. So I propose we add him to our relationship.”

  “What?” Both Tyler and I say at the same time.

  “We’re at an impasse. This is always going to be an issue. So like any other problem I might face, I tried to come up with a solution that will work for everyone. If you are with both of us, then everyone wins. What do you think?” he asks me directly, but all I can do is stare, mouth hanging open.

  “Brenna?” Tyler says from across the room. “You’re being really quiet.”

  “Did you guys talk about this?”

  “No, but Dean is right. I can’t let you go again.”

  I shake my head, trying to wrap my brain around the idea. They don’t really mean both of them…do they? Two sets of eyes are watching me, waiting for some kind of answer.

  “I can’t do this right now.” I stand up and grab my purse from the table.

  “Wait,” Dean says from behind me. “Don’t go.”

  I spin around to face him. “I need space to think.”

  “Forget it,” Dean says and grabs my arm. “I didn’t want to make you uncomfortable. I just thought—”

  “It’s not that,” I say and kiss him. “When you kissed me, and Tyler was watching, I didn’t know what to think, but it felt different. I’m confused, and I’m not sure what to think. Please, just give me time and space.”

  Chapter Fourteen

  DEAN

  “What the fuck was that about?” Tyler says after the door closes. “Bring me into your relationship? You really went there?”

  “Me? You’re the one that started this when you kissed my girlfriend.”

  “And you started dating her even though you knew she was my ex,” he says, crossing his arms defensively.

  Oh, no. He’s not blaming this on me.

  “You gave me your blessing,” I say. “I didn’t steal her from you. You practically gave her to me all wrapped up with a nice little bow. So don’t act like I’m the one in the wrong here.”

  I rake a hand through my hair, feeling a little better now that I’ve gotten that off my chest. I love Tyler, but he can be a selfish prick at times. I grab a bottle and two glasses from the bar and pour us both a drink. This isn’t how I intended the night to end.

  “Why didn’t you just tell me Brenna was comic book girl?” I demand.

  Tyler doesn’t do relationships. He’d had his heart broken a long time ago by a woman I only knew as comic book girl. Along with a fear of commitment, she left him with a comic book obsession. We can’t pass a newspaper stand or bookstore without stopping to pick something up for his collection.

  I never got the full story out of him, but I do know she’s the one that left him. When Brenna mentioned the comic book, I put the pieces together.

  “I didn’t tell you because it didn’t matter,” Tyler says and takes a long swig of his bourbon.

  “But it does now?” I ask, but wave off the question. “Don’t answer that. Are you still in love with her?”

  “Yes,” he says without hesitation. “I didn’t want to be. I thought I had closure and I could finally move on.” He leans back against the sofa and closes his eyes, blowing out a long breath. “But then today we started talking, and all those old feelings came rushing back. We never had a fair chance, and I couldn’t let her go—not without trying one more time. I thought if she knew I was still interested, I’d have a fighting chance. The last thing I expect was for you to propose a three-way.”

  “That’s not exactly what I’m proposing,” I say, carefully. “Brenna is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I don’t want to compete for her affections. Competition only ends one of two ways. We either both lose her or one of us is miserable. But if we’re together, all three of us, then no one loses.”

  I can’t believe I even suggested it, but from where I’m standing, it feels right. Despite our friendly rivalries, Tyler and I learned a long time ago that we work best as a team. Why couldn’t it work that way in a relationship, too?

  “I know you’ve spent the last month negotiating with those crazy polyamorous fuckers up north, but that’s not normal.”

  “Who’s to say what’s normal? She said she’s in love with both of us. Why make her choose?” I say. “Besides, it’s not like this would be our first time doing something like this.”

  “You can’t be serious. A night with a hot chick after a party isn’t the same as both of us dating the same woman.”

  “People are more accepting. Ash and Leo aren’t the only people in these kinds of relationships. There’s that movie star and her bodyguards. There’s that reality show on TV. Don’t you think we should consider it?”

  “This is crazy,” he says, rubbing the back of his neck. “Do you think we could make it work?

  “I think it’s worth a try,” I say. “It’s not the way I thought our relationship would evolve, but…” I blow out a breath and look over to Tyler. “I can live with this. If having you join our relationship—instead of being on the outside— makes her happy, I’ll do it. In fact, the more I think about it, the more the idea is growing on me. It’s going to take a lot of work, but I think it will be worth it in the end. What do you think? Are you in?”

  Tyler stares his glass, contemplating the question. The moment stretches out into an eternity. And just when I think he is going to tell me I’m crazy, he says, “I don’t hate the idea. But Brenna has to be on board one hundred percent.” He shrugs. “I don’t know. She seemed pretty freaked out about the suggestion. Maybe we should go and talk to her. Explain things.”

  “She asked for time.”

  “That’s what I’m worried about.” Tyler slams the rest of his drink then pours another.

  Chapter Fifteen

  BRENNA

  “I want to thank everyone for being patient. I know these last couple of months since my move have been hard, but things are starting to come together. I’ll talk to you all next Friday.”

  I wait while each member of my team says their goodbyes and signs off. Everyone but Liv.

  As soon as we are alone on the video chat, she leans in and asks, “What’s wrong?”

  Oh, where to start. I pick up my pen and chew on the cap, trying to decide what to tell her. “Nothing’s wrong. Why do you think something’s wrong?” I say, trying to feign innocence.

  “You’re distracted, and you kept straying off topic during the meeting,” she says. “And you’re chewing on your pen like you haven’t eaten in a week. We’ve been friends for six years. I know your tells.”

  “It’s just a bad habit.” I drop the pen and fold my hands over it. “That doesn’t mean there's something wrong.”

  “Fine. If you don’t want to tell me…” Liv lets out a dramatic sigh and flops back in her chair. “So begins the slow death of our friendship. I knew this day would come. I just didn’t think it would happen so soon.”

  “You’re being a drama queen. Just because I don’t want to talk about it—”

  “Ha! I knew there was something wrong,” Liv says, pumping her fist in the air. “Tell me. You know you’ll feel better.”

  Maybe I should tell her. It’s not like I have anyone else to talk to. And at least I know Liv won’t judge me. I can really use an outside opinion.

  Mind made up, I tell Liv everything, starting with the kiss.

  “Wow. You go from not dating to having two men. Why didn’t you call me earlier? I know this must be overwhelming for you.”

  “I didn’t know what to say. This isn’t a normal dating problem. Is it?”

  “No, sweetie, this is a unique situation, but that doesn’t mean I can’t help. You’re my best friend. I’ll always be there for you,” she says with so much sincerity I want to cry. I miss her so much. “Besid
es, how dare you keep this from me? Two hot men want to share you. Holy crap. I can’t even. Please tell me you said yes.”

  And there’s the Liv I know and love.

  “I didn’t say anything. I don’t know what to do,” I say, carrying my laptop over to my bed. “After being with Dean, I thought I was finally over Tyler. But then he kissed me, and all those feelings came rushing back. I thought if I confessed, it would make things simpler, but it just complicated things.”

  “No, you didn’t think it would be simpler. You were hoping Dean would make the choice for you.”

  “No, I didn’t. Okay, maybe. I mean, if he broke up with me, I wouldn’t have to decide. And if he forgave me, well…” I shrug and bite my lower lip. “He did forgive me, but then he was all have us both. What am I supposed to do with that?”

  “Uhm, have them both?” Liv says in her most sarcastic voice. “Unless you just want Tyler. You’ve been pining over that man for as long as I’ve known you. Don’t feel bad about breaking up with Dean if that’s what you really want.”

  “But that’s just it. I don’t want to break up with Dean. I’m falling in love with him. Real love that could lead to something, but you’re right, I’m still in love with Tyler. I’ve dreamt about reuniting with him since I left. But both... I’m not sure how I feel about wanting them both—together.”

  “I see your dilemma,” Liv says, nodding her head. “But don’t worry, I swear there’s never been a case of someone dying from too many orgasms.”

  “You’re such a perv,” I say, laughing, but her joke is enough to lighten the mood. I’m so glad Liv is my friend. I’m not sure what I’d do without her.

  “You know, it doesn’t have to be double penetration every time you're together, does it?”

  My cheeks burn hot as I imagine being fucked by both of them at the same time. Is that what I really want? The better question is, will I ever stop thinking about it. “You’re not helping. I’m more worried about the non-bedroom stuff. How would we even make this work? Would Tyler just be there for sex or are the three of us going to try to patch together some kind of franken-relationship? Will I be able to show affection to one of them without the other getting jealous?”

  “Sounds like you have a lot of things to figure out, but if anyone can do it, it’s you,” Liv says. “I like Dean. He makes you happy, and the bond you share with Tyler is deep. You’re the most thoughtful and caring person I know. Your heart’s big enough for both of them if that’s what you want. And I’ll be here for you, no matter what you decide.”

  “So you think I should do it? Date both of them? Have sex with both of them?” An image of both men touching me, naked and ready to please, flashing in my brain and I blush again. I hope Liv is right about the not dying from orgasm overdose.

  “I would. You can’t tell me you’re not a little curious?” Liv asks. “At least talk to them about how you’re feeling. See what they have to say, and then decide.”

  “You’re right. I’ve been avoiding them for the last couple of days, trying to figure out what to do on my own, but I’ve been driving myself crazy. I can’t avoid this any longer.”

  “That’s my girl. But you have to promise me that I get a call with all the deets.” Liv smiles wide and rubs her hands together. “This so great. So much better than the Game of Thrones fanfiction I’ve been reading.”

  “I’m hanging up now.”

  “You can do this! Love your face.”

  “Love you back.”

  The screen goes dark, and I flop back onto my pillow. I still don’t know what I’m going to decide, but at least I’m not on the verge of a panic attack. I have a plan. I send Dean a text and ask to meet with them both on Friday at seven. Landon already has plans, so I’ll have the night free regardless of how it ends.

  I check the clock on my phone for the millionth time. Six fifty-eight. It’s now or never.

  I take a deep breath and try to settle the butterflies rioting in my belly. This is it. One way or another, everything changes after this.

  I knock but don’t wait for an answer. I’m too nervous, and somehow it feels weird. If I’m seriously considering sleeping with both men, I should be comfortable enough to walk into their house. Right? Maybe I’m over thinking this.

  Both the guys are waiting for me in the living room, enjoying a drink. Something dark, most likely whiskey. Dean stands as I get closer and takes my hand.

  “I missed you,” he says and pulls me into a hug, kissing the top of my head.

  I sink into his embrace, letting his woodsy scent surround me. God, I missed this. The warmth and safety of his arms. Some of the tension leaves me, and I pull away, finally sure about what I’m going to do.

  And at this point, there’s no use dragging it out any longer than necessary. I get right to the matter at hand. “If we do this, how exactly would it work?”

  “So you are considering it?” Tyler says, sitting up straighter in his chair.

  “How do you want it to work?” Dean asks and tips up my chin, so I’m looking at him. “This is all up to you. We’ll do whatever you want.”

  “That doesn’t help,” I say, frustrated. I know he’s trying to be supportive, but I need some clarification. Some boundaries. I need to know where they guys stand. “You’re the one who suggested this. What were you thinking? Did you want me to date Tyler? Alternating nights out with him? Or did you want…” A hot blush creeps up my neck, but I keep going. “Or all three of us, together. At the same time.”

  My mouth goes dry, and I have to fight the urge to fan myself. I can’t believe I’m having this conversation. But I can’t deny the way I feel as both their gazes turn dark and hungry. Oh, yeah. All three of us it is.

  Tyler finishes his drink and sets down the empty glass. “Dean and I talked about it. We both want you. Separate. Together. It doesn’t matter. But I can tell you this, the other night, watching the two of you kiss the other day was hot.”

  “I’m open to whatever you’re comfortable with, but no matter what happens next, it’s just the three of us,” Dean says, tucking a lock of hair behind my ear. “No one else.”

  Tyler stands and heads our direction, eyes focused on me. “That’s not a problem for me. The only woman I want is Brenna.” He touches my shoulder and traces the line of my collarbone.

  Something flashes in Dean’s eyes. I recognize it immediately. It’s the same look he gets when he orders me around in bed. “Then kiss her. Show her how much you want her.”

  I’m pinned between the two of them. My heart starts racing as Tyler cups my chin and lowers his lips to mine. He’s a few inches taller than Dean, and the angle is awkward at first, but his kiss is slow and intense; demanding. I ease into it. The eight years that stand between us fall away, and I’m taken back. Dean presses against my back and brushes the hair out of my face. He wraps the long strands in his fist, angling my head back as Tyler sucks on my lip, nipping at the sensitive skin. Dean’s hard cock pressing impatiently against into my back as he watches us just inches away.

  God, this is really happening.

  “Do you want to take this back to the bedroom?” Tyler asks Dean.

  “What do you think?” Dean says, kissing the back of my neck.

  Am I ready for this?

  A few weeks ago, I’d only ever slept with one man, and now here I am agreeing to a threesome. I feel like a walking That Escalated Quickly meme.

  Tyler steps back and watches us, hunger and need burning in his eyes. An electric bolt races down my spine, straight to my pussy. Every concern I had earlier seems trivial compared to the burning desire coursing through my veins. They did this to me. Not just Dean. Not just Tyler. Both of them. So yeah, this is really happening.

  I can do this. I want to do this.

  “Yes.” I swallow and let out a shaky breath.

  As if sensing my apprehension, Dean whispers against my ear, “Don’t be nervous. We’ve got you.”

  Tyler trails a finger down my ar
m and takes my hand. “We’ll make sure it’s good for you.”

  Honestly, I’m not sure how I managed to make it all the way back to Tyler’s room without collapsing into a puddle of want. Dean peels off his shirt and pants and then crawls onto the bed. He leans back against the headboard and makes himself comfortable. All the while, his eyes never leave us.

  “Take off her clothes,” he says, and my heart picks up the pace.

  Chapter Sixteen

  DEAN

  I sit back and watch as Tyler peels off her sweater, exposing Brenna’s perfect tits. My mouth waters as he unclasps the bra and her dusky nipples pucker with need. Silver rings hang from each hard nubs.

  Fuck, I want to suck and bite those tits, pull on those rings with my teeth. I want to bury myself balls deep in her sweet pussy. But I catch the look in Tyler’s eyes. He needs to touch her more than I do, so I’m happy to watch and direct for now.

  Whatever happens in the next few hours will change everything. For all of us. We need to go slow, figure out the dynamic. And I need to see how Brenna and Tyler are together. I know they’ve had sex before, but they were both so young. They’ve both older and hopefully a little more mature. Although with Tyler, it really is a toss-up.

  He’s got her down to just her underwear, and I wave them over. “Lay her down, here,” I say, patting at the space between my legs.

  Brenna tears her gaze away from Tyler long enough to send me a questioning glance. Tyler picks up on her hesitation and kisses her gently, cradling her face in his hands. “Don’t worry. We’ll take care of you. I promise.”

  “You’re in control,” I say. “If we do something that makes you uncomfortable, all you have to do is say stop. You trust me— trust us, right?”

  She licks her lips and nods. “Yes.”

  I scoot forward to the edge of bed and Brenna settles between my legs. “There you go, sweetheart. Lean against me and let Tyler taste that sweet pussy of yours.”