Monday, June 30, 2025

Confessions and complications

"Vince, Tomas's past isn't just dark; it's a story that will make you question everything you thought you knew," I began, my voice direct, leaning in slightly. "Yes, he absolutely has a criminal history, there's no denying that. However, one horrific event completely reshaped his entire life."

Vince’s eyes were fixed on me, his expression unblinking.

"His child – an adult child - unknowingly walked into an active crime scene and was tragically killed in the commission of that crime," I explained, the words feeling heavy. "Tomas was on the lam as a fugitive when he received that his kid had died. That moment, that death, it shattered him and made him turn his life around. He came back and turned himself in, telling law enforcement everything—every crime he was involved in, and everyone else who was part of those operations. You don’t want to know how many wanted lists or watch lists he was on then but today, you’d never know it."

"He confessed to everything?" Vince asked, a note of genuine surprise in his voice. "Just like that?"

"Yes, he did," I confirmed. "Because of his full confession and cooperation, he ended up serving a short time in prison—eight years – but with crimes like he was committing; fraud, robbery, scamming. And ever since he got out, he's been entirely focused on helping people, especially those he interacts with through his business."

Vince paused, taking this in, then frowned. "But how did he get all his money back after being released from prison? I mean, that kind of wealth doesn't just reappear for someone with his past."

I hesitated, glancing around the bustling arena. I couldn't reveal the truth.  Tomas had entrusted me with all of his money before he went inside, and we had both laundered it through an intricate, untraceable web of accounts. It had passed through so many financial layers that no law enforcement agency could ever follow the trail. I'd simply given it all back to him, trusting him implicitly. Instead, I gave him the agreed-upon story.

"Tomas gave all of his money away before he went in," I stated, maintaining a casual but firm tone. "Then, after his release, a very generous but anonymous donor essentially re-established his financial foundation."

Vince looked skeptical, his brow furrowed. "A donor? That sounds a bit too neat, doesn't it?"

"I’m telling you only what I know,” I said, my voice dropping to a serious undertone, my eyes locking with his. "Vince? What I'm telling you right now? You cannot tell a single soul; not ever. This conversation stays strictly between us."

He glanced around, a flicker of concern in his eyes as he took in the thousands of people. "But how can you even risk telling me this here? In the middle of an events center, with all these electronic devices, someone could be recording us?"

A subtle, knowing smile touched my lips. "Tomas knew this moment was going to happen tonight, between you and me, around this exact time. Trust me, his IT department are top notch. These isn’t your typical IT; in their previous lives they were hackers, criminals, former IT employees of different governments, the best of the best—they have a way to block all electronic devices from recording within a certain radius, even their own."

Vince looked at me funny, a mix of disbelief and bewilderment on his face. "Are you serious?"

"Check your phone," I prompted, nodding towards his hand.

He pulled it out, tried to swipe, tap an app, then scroll. Nothing. The screen was utterly frozen, completely unresponsive. His jaw visibly slackened.

"Promise me you won't say a thing?" I reiterated, my gaze unwavering.

"I swear it," he vowed, his voice a hushed whisper, as he slowly pocketed his inert phone.

Knowing how utterly ridiculous I was about to look but having promised Tomas I would go through with this, I tilted my head back far, gazing up at the dazzling lights of the arena. I closed my eyes for a brief moment, then opened them with a theatrical sigh. I knew that someone who worked for Tomas was watching. "The night is still young," I said, "and I wonder what it will bring." Vince looked at me strangely

Just then, both our phones buzzed with a text notification. I brought my head down, and Vince simultaneously looked at his. The text was from the events center, reading: "We sincerely apologize for the unexpected loss of service in the building this evening. This was due to a persistent technical issue we have been actively working to resolve throughout the day. We appreciate your understanding."

“Is his IT team legit?” Vince asked.

“My understanding is that they are,” I said. “Apparently, they had to go through a very rigorous background check….recent crimes, who they spend time with, where their money goes, do they not go back to what landed them in prison, electronics are scanned.”

******This chapter contains both fictional and nonfictional elements. Tomas Ezekial is a completely fictional character—I do not know anyone by that name or anyone who bears any resemblance to him. I am not involved in money laundering or any other illegal activity, and I do not have any personal associations with hackers or other individuals engaged in criminal conduct.******

Unexpected Care

My phone buzzed from an incoming text. I looked to see who it was from; it was Randy.

“Got to work to work ok today…only forty-five minutes late this time 😊.”

I smiled and replied. “Did you walk in with afterglow?”

He said, “Jose asked why I was late this time,  I kept it simple by telling that I overslept.”

I smiled, grateful for Randy’s discretion. “Thank you for last night. I had a great time.”

His response was almost immediate. “You’re welcome. I did, too. I had the best date and by far the most beautiful woman there.”

I blushed and sent him the smiley face emoji.

I spent the day working from home—answering client and staff emails, taking calls, and making a few myself. Then Tomas, my top client, called.

I picked up and said, “Hello, Tomas. How are you today?”

He didn’t waste time. “I’m livid. Every time I call the office, I get transferred to Tara. I want to speak with you directly. Why can’t I?”

I took a breath. “Tomas, I don’t share personal matters with clients, but you’re an exception to that rule. The past few months have been incredibly difficult for me and my loved ones.”

He waited silently, so I continued.

“I married young – just 18 - and soon after, my ex-husband disappeared from my life for over twenty years and no one would tell me where he was. I found him recently when a friend and I went out of town. I served him the divorce papers then and there as I always carried them. In a matter of a week or , we were divorced. Afterwards, he was so furious that I wouldn’t allow him to treat me like this anymore. One night a few weeks later,  followed Vince and I to a restaurant. A friend of mine who lives in the area of that restaurant—a police officer—warned us that Xavier…excuse me, my ex-husband, was there, and he was drunk and had a gun with him. I had stepped outside to try to disarm my ex-husband, he pulled a gun and fired at me. Darnell, my police officer friend, tackled me to protect me and he was hit by the bullet instead of me. We hit the parking lot hard. I lost consciousness after hitting my head on a step. Darnell needed surgery, and I suffered a concussion. That was my first emergency room visit.”

I paused, steadying my voice.

“There was a trial afterward, where I needed police protection for about two or so weeks—which was the second half of the trial. Thankfully, he was found guilty of attempted murder of my friend and I as well as some other serious charges. Of course, sentencing hearings take time to happen after a trial. Somehow, one of the prosecutors got the sentencing hearing moved up by two or three weeks; however, I was given a little less than seventy-two hours’ notice. I went, I testified, and went outside for fresh air afterward. As I was trying to catch my breath, I had passed out. Thankfully, my brother was with me at the time and had called emergency services. That was my second emergency room visit. Just a few days ago, I ended up in the ER again for severe dehydration and exhaustion. And that was after a two-week vacation meets break from work to rest and reset.”

“That is incredibly intense. I am so sorry that you went through all that and are still going through all of that.”

“Thank you, Tomas. Since the last ER visit, my doctor has ordered me to reduce my workload for at least two weeks, and I’m limited to a few hours a day to avoid further health crisis.”

“That’s a smart decision to limit your time,” Tomas said quietly. “I am so sorry.”

“It is intense, but I’m still here. I’m still working, just not always in the office.”

“I appreciate your honesty. I was worried you were avoiding me.”

“Never. You’re my most important – and favorite - client.”

We moved on to business—stocks, portfolio adjustments, and strategies.

“I’m thinking about selling mid-cap tech stocks. They seem stagnant.”

“Hold them one more quarter. A software rollout should boost them soon. Sell the REITs. They’re bleeding money.”

“You’re sure?”

“I wouldn’t say that if I wasn’t. Move those funds into green energy investments. You’ll be glad you did in six months.”

“You’ve got a sharp eye.”

“Thanks!”

“So, Deppgrl, what are your plans for the weekend?” Tomas asked.

“A friend invited me to the Bruno Mars and The Weeknd concert tonight at the events center. I’m looking forward to it, but my friend is a bit too old that scene for music,” I said. “He’s nineteen years older than I am.”

“There’s something I am going to do for you and your friend,” Tomas said. “You know many things about me, but something that you don’t know is that I own that events center. I am going to give your friend a full refund on his tickets and give you tickets for the floor seats in the center section; the seats are in the front row.”

“Tomas, that is incredibly generous of you, but…” I said. “I just can’t accept this gift.”

“You can and you will,” he said. “This is part of your rest. What’s your friend’s name?”

“Vince Diaz,” I said. “He may have bought the tickets as either Vincent, Vince, or Vin.”

“I’ll take care of it right now. Please tell Mr. Diaz that he’ll get a full refund and to expect that email around 5 and the email with the new tickets should arrive around 6:30. Don’t forget—go through the main gate. I will have security have backstage passes for the both of you.”

“I can’t thank you enough for your generosity, Tomas,” I said. “I am so sorry—I didn’t ask what you and your family are going to do this weekend.”

“We’re going on our yacht. We’ll be leaving before the concert and we’ll be back either on Monday or Tuesday.”

“Sounds like a fun weekend. Thank you again for your generosity.”

We hung up, and I was floored. Despite what this man’s history was like, I was floored by his generosity towards me.

About an hour later, Tara called.

“There’s an issue at the office,” she said.

“What kind of issue?”

“You should come in.”

I told her I’d be there shortly. The twenty-five-minute drive took me fifteen.

I entered the office expecting chaos but found smiles instead. The staff greeted me warmly; some gave me hugs while others clapped me on the back. After saying hello to everyone, I pulled Tara into my office.

“Tara, there better be a real issue.”

“Tomas called right at open,” she explained. “He was angry, demanding to speak with you. When I said you weren’t available, he insisted on your personal number, and if he didn’t get it, he’d walk. So, I gave it to him. I’m not sure when or if he’s going to call.”

I rubbed my forehead. “He called me, and I calmed him down, and he’s staying. You knew from the get go that he’s the most important—and mega-rich—client we have and we cannot afford to lose him. The next time an important client needs to get a hold of me and I’m not physically here, give them every single way to reach me. I don’t care if it’s a carrier pigeon. After you provide them the millions of ways to get a hold of me, you text me to warn me so I am not ambushed. It’s extremely embarrassing to me that someone that I have been training and teaching to be the next me has to be told again—we do what we need to do—legally, of course!—to keep our clients. Next time, make sure there’s a legitimate reason before dragging me in.”

“I’m sorry. He was yelling and he scares me.”

“I get it, but this wasn’t the way to start my day. Remember the boy who cried wolf and when there was a wolf then no one believed him?”

She nodded.

“This felt like that,” I said more gently. “The next time you call me or text me or email me to say that there’s an issue and I need to be here, I am going to doubt if you’re calling ‘wolf’ or if it’s legitimate.”

“I understand.”

“And no,” I added, “today’s not the day to discuss that raise we joked about. You lost the moment.”

“Understood.”

“Over the next few weeks, if you can prove yourself to me again, we’ll meet then.”

Tara nodded, and I left for home.

I stopped at the diner since I realized I hadn’t eaten since last night. I ordered French onion soup, a bacon bleu cheese burger, and a soda. I enjoyed the food. Dr. Jones wouldn’t approve, but I didn’t care and I needed to eat. After paying and tipping well, I headed home.

Once inside, I kicked off my shoes and pants, then my bra. As I was about to lie down, my phone buzzed. Vince texted.

“Are you free to talk?”

I replied immediately. “Yes.”

He called immediately.

“Hey, babe. I’m at a friend’s fixing a fence knocked down by the bad rain storm we got a few days ago.”

I teased, “Which hammer are you swinging around?”

He laughed. “Hold on, I need to take you off speaker. His seven-year-old daughter’s just a few feet away, and you have such a mouth on you.”

“I do not.”

“Yes, you do. It’s a framing hammer. I’m the muscles and he’s the brains.”

“How much longer?”

“A few hours at least. His yard is a mess.”

“What’s the food plan before the concert?”

“I’m picking up sandwiches from my friend Mike’s deli. What do you want?”

“Italian subs. It’s a given,” I said. “Won’t he have to reopen up his deli for you to swing by?”

“He will but it won’t be a first time nor will it be the last time.”

We laughed and talked about the weather, the concert, and his friend’s annoying dog before hanging up.

I napped for a few hours. My phone buzzed from an incoming text…I barely opened an eye. It was Vince.

I’m outside…using my key to get in.

Thanks for the heads up. I’m upstairs in bed.

He came in and sat on the edge of the bed. He kissed me gently.

“Hi,” I said. “You don’t need to tell me that you’re coming in.”

“Hi,” he said. “After everything with Xavier, I don’t want to come in here without your ok or at a planned time.”

“I appreciate that, but it’s completely unnecessary.”

I brushed my teeth while he made coffee. When I came downstairs, my mug was filled with coffee and made the way I love it—light and sweet.

As we were drinking our coffee, I noticed he seemed distracted.

“You okay? Everything ok?”

“I’m fine,” he said, his eyes tracing the collar of my shirt. “Just thinking about what you’re not wearing under that shirt.”

I raised an eyebrow, a slow smile spreading across my face. “Want to find out?”

He set down his mug, the clink echoing in the quiet kitchen. He stood, pulling me to my feet and kissing me deeply, his hands cupping my face.

“God, you’re beautiful,” he whispered against my lips.

“Thank you.”

He picked me up and carried me upstairs, our laughter a soft melody. Gently, he sat me on the edge of the bed, his hands lingering on my waist.

“Are you sure you want to?” he asked, his voice low and laced with concern. “You’ve had a crazy day.”

“I’m more than sure,” I said, reaching for the buttons on his old denim shirt that was almost as old as I am. “I can’t think of a better way to make it better.”

He smiled, a mischievous glint in his eyes, and began to take off the old denim shirt and his jeans as I slowly removed my shirt and slid my panties off. He climbed over me and pressed inside, a soft groan escaping his lips.

“God, you feel incredible,” he murmured between breaths, his forehead resting against mine. “So tight.”

I gripped his shoulders, my fingers digging into the firm muscle. “Don’t stop.”

“I won’t,” he promised, his voice rough. “Just… just tell me what you need.”

“More,” I breathed, arching into him. “I need more of you.”

He moved, a powerful, rhythmic motion, his hips a perfect counterpoint to mine. “You’re amazing,” he whispered, his body tense with pleasure. “So perfect.”

“Say my name,” I gasped, my nails trailing down his back.

“Deppgrl…my god. I’ve missed this.”

Our passion built, loud and fierce, until we were a whirlwind of motion and sound. We both climaxed often, a wave of sensation crashing over us, each one more intense than the last. He released inside me, filling me completely.

Our cries echoed in the room as we collapsed, breathless and content.

Later, we showered and dressed for the concert. Vince wore khaki shorts, a tucked-in polo, and boat shoes. I chose short shorts, a low-cut shirt, slip-ons, and packed a light sweater in my purse.

When we went downstairs, I grabbed some plates and Vince grabbed the subs from the fridge. We popped open a few beers to drink.

“I had an interesting call from my most important client today,” I said.

Vince raised an eyebrow. “Interesting how?”

“Remember me mentioning Tomas a few times? Well, he’s my big client that Tara almost lost us today. We talked earlier about his portfolio, and after business talk, we shared weekend plans. He’s taking his family on his yacht, and I told him you and I would be at the concert. Tomas arranged something pretty cool.”

“Yeah, I remember you mentioning him. Older guy that lost his family during the war?” Vince said hinting at the war in the 1940s. “What kind of arrangement?”

“He told me you’ll get an email around 5 p.m. confirming a full refund for the tickets you already bought. The new tickets will arrive around 6:30. We’re to go through the main gate, they’ll scan the tickets, and security will have backstage passes for us.”

Vince shook his head, a stunned look on his face. “You’re serious?”

“I am.”

“Where are the seats?”

“You won’t believe it,” I said. “We’ve got the floor seats in the center section, and we’ll be in the front row.”

He smiled, a wide, genuine grin spreading across his face. “I owe Tomas big time. I want to send him a fruit basket.”

I smirked. “Just don’t give him your number.”

“I don’t want to know,” Vince sighed, a smile playing on his lips. “Are you all set? The car is almost here.”

“I want to make sure that I have the important things in my purse,” I said as I dug through it to see if I had everything, and I didn’t.

I ran upstairs to grab a few phone chargers, a second asthma inhaler in case the first one runs out, my phone and some chapstick.

The Concert

The car arrived right on time. Vince got out and helped me in, then slid in next to me. The city traffic was a beast, and we were stuck for over an hour. At 5 p.m. sharp, Vince’s phone buzzed with a notification.

“Well, look at that,” he said, pulling out his phone. “Email from the ticket vendor. A full refund. Unbelievable.”

“See? I told you,” I said, resting my head on his shoulder.

“I’m still stunned,” he said, shaking his head in disbelief. “Front row. Backstage passes. This is insane.”

We crawled through traffic, but the time didn’t matter. We were together, and we had plenty of time before the show started. Around 6:15 p.m., as the driver finally started moving on the main road again, Vince’s phone buzzed with another email.

“New tickets are here,” he announced, pulling up the email. The QR codes for our new seats were on the screen.

Just a few minutes later, my phone buzzed with a text from Tomas.

Tickets come through?

I typed back quickly. Yes! They did. Thank you so much again, Tomas. You’re the best!

My pleasure. Have a great night. You both deserve it, he replied.

Vince asked the driver to take us to the main gate, and a few minutes later, we pulled up to a bustling entrance. He got out and then helped me out of the car. We walked toward the security checkpoint, where a staff member was scanning tickets.

“Alright, tickets, please,” the man said, holding up the scanner.

Vince held up his phone with the QR codes. The man scanned them and nodded. Then his eyes fell on my purse. It was a bit bigger and not clear than the venue’s clear but small bag policy allowed.

“Ma’am, I’m sorry, but that bag is too large. You’ll have to check it or take it back to the car.”

Vince looked at me, a frustrated look on his face. “I knew it. Babe, I told you we should have checked the policy.”

“Just watch,” I whispered to Vince with a sly smile.

I reached into my purse and pulled out a small ID badge on a lanyard. It had my picture, my name, and the logo for Tomas’s holding company. I held it up for the staff member to see. He looked at the badge, then at me, then back at the badge. His eyes widened in recognition.

He immediately lowered the scanner and stepped aside. “Oh, my apologies, ma’am. Right this way. We’ll get you to the security office for your passes.”

Vince stared at me, dumbfounded. “What… what was that? Why didn’t you tell me you work for him?”

“I don’t work for him,” I said, tucking the ID back into my bag. “I just get paid to play with his money. We’re sort of business partners, not employer-employee. He had a courier send this over to my house today after our call so I could have it for tonight. It’s a professional courtesy.”

“A professional courtesy?” Vince asked, still in shock as we walked. “You just flashed an ID and they acted like you were the Queen of England!”

“They know me here,” I said with a shrug. “I’ve met Tomas here a few times for business without even knowing he owned the place. We’d just meet in his office; what I call his smaller office…the larger one is for show. It’s how we do business. Now come on, let’s go get those passes.”

We headed to the security office, where a different officer recognized me from previous meetings. Vince had to show his driver’s license to get his backstage pass, which were special laminated cards with our names on it but his name on the envelope. I placed them in my purse for safe keeping and followed an usher through a maze of hallways and back corridors. We emerged into the arena bowl, the music from the opening act already thumping through the air.

Our seats were exactly as promised—floor seats, dead center and front row. We were so close to the stage that we could see every detail without hurting our necks, but we were just far enough back that the sound was perfect.

As we settled into our seats, Vince noticed an envelope taped to the armrest of his chair. He picked it up, curious, and saw a small, neatly folded note inside, along with a pair of foam earplugs. His brow furrowed as he unfolded the paper and began to read.

Mr. Diaz, I hope you've been finding everything to your liking so far. Ms. Smith is someone I deeply value, like a sister. She has shared with me that you make her happy. Please continue to take care of her and cherish her. You won't find another woman as incredible as she is. Given the significant age difference she mentioned, you might find these earplugs useful tonight. Sincerely, Tomas Ezekial.

Vince looked a little uneasy after reading the note.

"Are you okay?" I asked him.

He showed me the note. "Did you know about his last name?"

"Yes," I said.

"Why do you work with such a man?" he asked. “He’s a monster.”

 

Sunday, June 29, 2025

Between us and the past

Vince stirs me awake, his touch gentle yet insistent as he slides his fingers inside me. The sensation is electric, pulling me from sleep into a haze of desire.

“You’re beautiful in the morning,” he murmurs, his voice rough with sleep.

“You say that every time,” I tease, rolling toward him.

“Because it’s always true,” he replies, kissing my neck. “I can’t help myself.”

We make love again and again, our bodies entwined, until we’re both breathless and spent; he releases in me each time.

Afterward, we showered together, the water cascading over us as we lose ourselves in each other once more.

“You make it hard to leave,” he says, running his hands through my damp hair.

“So stay,” I suggest, half-joking.

“I wish I could,” he sighs. “But I promised I’d meet the guys for golf.”

We dry off and dress, then head downstairs. While I start the coffee, Vince gathers the blankets and tosses them into the washer in the laundry room, then clears away the glasses from last night, loading them into the dishwasher.

We prepare our coffees just the way we like, sipping in comfortable silence, sharing quiet conversation as the morning unfolds.

“You seem distracted,” Vince observes, watching me over his mug.

“Just thinking about the day ahead,” I say, shrugging, thinking about the night with him and Randy.

He reaches for my hand. “Anything you want to talk about?”

“Not really,” I said. “What do you have going on the rest of the week?”

Vince smiles. “I’m heading out for golf with the guys. Tomorrow night I’ve got drinks with some friends. And on Friday, I’ve got a concert.”

“Who’s playing?” I ask.

“Bruno Mars and The Weeknd,” he says.

I tease him, “Aren’t you a little too old for Bruno Mars and The Weeknd?”

He chuckles. “Maybe, but I’m not too old to have a good time. What are you up to the rest of the week?”

“I’ll be working from home, catching up on things, and resting,” I reply.

“Glad you’re taking it easy the rest of the week.”

Vince reassembles the couch, and when he returns, he presses me against the kitchen counter, his hands and lips igniting a fire between us. He takes me from behind, our passion building until we reach climax again and again—five, maybe six times—each release leaving us trembling.

When he pulls out and we redress, he kisses me softly but passionately.

I smile, but there’s a pang in my heart as he heads for the door. “You’re running late again, aren’t you?” I tease, trying to mask my sadness.

He grins, pausing in the doorway. “You know me too well. Hey, would you like to join me at the concert on Friday?”

“Yes, I’ll be there,” I reply, my voice steady despite the emotions swirling inside me.

He kisses me passionately. “I love you so much,” he says before he leaves.

The manipulation on Vince’s side is minor—he’s not being malicious but just going above and beyond to try to persuade me to choose him. He wants to remind me of what we have together. After twenty years of highs and lows, it’s hard not to see through it. He wants me to choose him over Randy. Vince is a wonderful man, and comfortable, but the complexity of our past lingers in the air. Still, I do love him.

As soon as Vince is gone, I toss the blankets into the dryer. My phone rings—it’s Randy.

“Hey, you up for dinner and some salsa dancing tonight?” he asks, his voice warm and inviting.

“Absolutely,” I say, feeling a spark of excitement. “Sounds like fun. What time?”

“Around seven. What are you up to the rest of the day?”

“Straightening up the house, catching up on some work from home, resting, and making sure I hydrate. What about you?”

“I’ve got a few errands to run, then maybe a walk if the weather holds up,” he answers. “Looking forward to tonight.”

“Me too,” I say, hanging up with a smile.

After we get off the phone, I do about two hours of work from home, replying to emails and calling clients. Then I head to the office for about an hour and a half. My staff is happy to see me, but they notice how tired I become the longer I stay. They practically have to push me out the door so I headed home.

Once home, I eat a late lunch, drink water, take care of a few personal emails from the living room, folded the blankets and put them back on the couch and then I went upstairs to take a nap.

Around 5 p.m., my phone rings – it’s Vince.

“Hey, just wanted to check in on you. How are you doing?” he asks, his voice gentle.

“I’m doing okay,” I answer, yawning. “Just a little tired. I didn’t get much sleep last night.”

 “I’m sorry I kept you up,” he said. “ The next time one of us sleeps over at the other’s, I’ll make sure to let you sleep.”

“I was napping when you woke me up,” I admit with a sleepy laugh.

“Oh, sorry about that,” he says, chuckling. “Didn’t mean to interrupt.”

“It’s fine,” I reassure him. “It was a good nap. How’s your day going?”

We talk a little more, he talks about his golf game, and caught up, before we get off the phone.

I look at the time—it’s 5:45, and I have about an hour to get ready. After the nap and phone call with Vince, I run downstairs to drink more water, then go back upstairs.

I shower, brush my teeth, do my hair, put in my contacts, put on perfume and unscented lotion, and look for a fun dress. I find it: a black tiered chiffon cocktail dress. I slip into my most comfortable high heels, grab a cute but medium sized purse, and pack my asthma inhaler, lip gloss, wallet, phone and its charger, keys, and roll-up flats … just in case my feet start to hurt.

When I made it downstairs without breaking my neck in the high heels I was wearing, Randy rings the doorbell. He looks gobsmacked; in awe of how I look, his bottom jaw has proverbially hit the floor. I invite him in.

“You look amazing,” he says, shaking his head.

“You look great, too,” I reply, smiling.

He wraps his arms around me and kisses me softly. When he pulls away, he says, “My kids wanted to join us, but I put my foot down and told them it was ‘an adult only date’ and that I’d ask if they can join us a different time.”

“Thank you for telling them they have to wait until it’s okay,” I say.

We head outside and get into the ride share car that he’s reserved for the night and we talk as we’re on our way.  We arrive at the upscale Mexican restaurant about fifteen minutes later. The exterior is elegant and modern, with warm amber lighting illuminating the entrance and a sleek sign above the door. The outdoor patio is softly lit with twinkling string lights and lush greenery, offering a welcoming yet sophisticated atmosphere. After he closes the car door, he leans down and kisses me softly. “Ready, babe?” he asks.

“Yeah,” I said as I shivered in the cool air, regretting to bring a sweater.

“Let’s get you inside,” Randy said. “I don’t want you getting sick under my care.”

Inside the restaurant, the lighting is soft and inviting, with chandeliers casting a golden glow over white tablecloths and dark wood accents, while vibrant Mexican art adorns the walls. The air is filled with the rich aromas of grilled meats, fresh cilantro, and warm corn tortillas, mingling with the scent of sizzling fajitas, tangy lime, and smoky chipotle from the open kitchen. The background is alive with the hum of conversation, laughter, and the clink of glassware, occasionally interrupted by a burst of mariachi music.

We’re shown to a cozy table near a large window. Our server, a friendly woman with a warm smile, greets us and hands us menus.

“Welcome! Tonight, we have a few specials to start. For drinks, our featured cocktail is a Mezcal Paloma—mezcal, fresh grapefruit juice, lime, and a splash of soda. We also have a house Margarita with a touch of mango puree and a hint of chili. For food, the chef is offering a special of beef short rib enchiladas with mole negro and a side of pickled red onions.”

After the server provides the specials, I say, “Thank you for sharing the specials with us. The seafood special sounds great, but both of us are allergic to seafood.”

She replies, “Thank you for letting me know. I’ll make sure to tell the kitchen so there’s no cross-contamination.” Then she asks, “What would you like to drink?”

Randy says, “Two Mezcal Palomas, no salt on the rims, please.”

“Sounds great,” she says. “I’ll go put these in, talk to the kitchen staff, and come back in a few minutes so you can look over the menu.”

Randy replies, “Thank you.”

The server returns again with a mountain of warm chips and four different salsas: classic tomato, fiery habanero, smoky chipotle, and creamy avocado tomatillo and our drinks.

After the server leaves the chips, the salsa and our drinks, Randy and I settle in and look over the menu together.

“What are you thinking for appetizers?” Randy asks, scanning the page.

I study the selection. “The guacamole made tableside sounds amazing, but I’m also tempted by the queso fundido. What about you?”

Randy nods. “I’m leaning toward the queso fundido—I love melted cheese with chorizo. But I’m open to sharing both if you want.”

“That sounds perfect,” I say. “Let’s get both, then. I’m a sucker for good guac.”

He grins. “Me too. Now, what about the main course? I’m torn between the carne asada and the chicken enchiladas suizas.”

I glance back at the menu. “I was thinking about the chicken mole enchiladas, but the pork carnitas tacos are calling my name too. What do you think?”

“Honestly, I’m craving something grilled—I’m going with the carne asada,” Randy decides.

“That sounds great. I’ll going with the pork carnitas tacos.”

Randy smiles. “Perfect. I’m excited to see how everything turns out.”

“We’d like to start with the guacamole made tableside and the queso fundido with chorizo,” I say.

“And for our main course, I’ll have the carne asada, and she’ll have the pork carnitas tacos,” Randy adds.

The server nods and heads off to place our order, leaving us to enjoy our chips and conversation.

As we settle in, Randy smiles and says, “This is nice. I’m glad we’re here together.”

“Me too,” I reply.

We finish our main course, and the server clears our dinner plates. She also brings us fresh Mezcal Palomas and a pitcher of water. We sip our drinks and chat—our appetizer plates were cleared long ago.

As the last plate is taken away, salsa music starts up. Randy leans in and asks, “Want to dance?”
“Of course,” I say with a smile.

We head out to the dance floor, moving together to the rhythm. After a while, we return to the table for a drink and to give my feet a break. Randy asks, “Want to change your shoes?”
“Not yet,” I reply.
He grins and teases, “If you don’t change them, you’re not getting a foot rub later.”
I laugh and shake my head.

The server comes over and asks if we’d like dessert. We say yes, and she leaves us a dessert menu. Randy and I look it over, discussing what to order.
“Churros with chocolate dipping sauce or tres leches cake?” Randy asks.
“Why not both?” I suggest.
He nods and smiles. “Perfect.”

When the server returns, we place our order. Before the desserts arrive, we go back out to dance some more. As we’re dancing, out of the corner of my eye, I think I spot Vic in a chef’s jacket, but I don’t mention it to Randy.

We return to our table, and the server brings our desserts and dessert drinks. We share the churros and tres leches cake, laughing and chatting between bites.

I excuse myself to the bathroom to change my shoes. The bathroom has a simple, opaque shoe bag for changing. I slip into my flats, wash my hands, and return to the table.

After we finish our desserts, the server clears our plates and asks if we’d like anything else.

Randy says, “No, we’re stuffed. We’ll take the bill.”

She replies, “Your check has been taken care of,” and glances over her shoulder.

I look up and see Vic. Randy raises an eyebrow but doesn’t say anything. I give the server a generous tip. Vic gives me a small nod of his head and gives Randy a smirk.

Randy and I step outside. He drapes his sports coat over my shoulders to keep me warm while we wait for the car he reserved for the night. A few minutes later, it arrives. Randy helps me in, then gets in the other side.

During the ride, Randy asks, “Who was that guy?”

I reply, “Just an old friend from years ago.”

He pushes, “Really?”

I admit, “He’s an old fuck buddy.”

“How recent?”

I lie, “It’s been awhile.”

Randy gives me a look but drops it.

The rest of the drive is quiet. When we get to my place, Randy helps me out of the car. We thank the driver and head inside. I close and lock the door behind us, then slip my dress off and leave it on the floor as I head to the bathroom. I start the shower, toss my my bra and pantie in the laundry basket in the linen closet, and wait for Randy.

He joins me in the shower, steam rising around us.

“You’re beautiful,” Randy says, pulling me close.

I whisper, “So are you.”

His hands slide over my waist, then down my hips. I reach up to kiss him, our lips meeting under the warm spray.

“I want you,” he murmurs, his voice rough.

“I want you, too,” I say.

He hooks my leg over his hip, presses me against the tile, and pushes inside me. I moan his name, my hands gripping his shoulders.

“Tell me you’re mine,” he says between thrusts.

“I’m yours,” I gasp.

He groans, his hands tightening on me as we both climax together. He releases in me, holding me close as we catch our breath under the water.

After the shower, we dry off—me in an oversized shirt, Randy in sweatpants.

We settle onto my bed. Randy brings up Vic again. “Who was that guy, really?”

I sigh. “He’s someone from my past. I don’t appreciate you asking me the same thing over and over. Drop it.”

Randy asks, “Is this guy competing for your heart?”

“No,” I say. “Let it go. If you ask me one more question about him, I’m kicking you out and choosing Vince.” I add, “We’ve run into your ex-wife and a few ex-girlfriends before, and I never gave you a hard time about it.”

He apologizes.

I turn my back, pull the blankets over me, and fall asleep. An hour later, I wake to a creaking floorboard and hear Randy on the phone. I slow my breathing to listen—it’s his sister. He tells her what happened and how he messed up with me. After they finish talking and I hear him hang up, I get up and walk down the hall.

“Are you coming back to bed?” I ask.

He looks at his phone and sighs. I tease, “Was it your other girlfriend?”

He gives me a small smile. “That’s not funny,” he says, but takes my hand and follows me back to bed.

In my room, I take my shirt off and get under the covers. “Are you joining me?” I ask, noticing the bulge in his sweatpants. He strips and climbs in beside me. I spread my legs; he slides his fingers inside me and moans.

“You’re so wet,” he says, his voice low.

“For you,” I whisper.

With one deep thrust, he’s inside me, climaxing and moaning my name as he releases in me. Then he continues, his body moving against mine, his hands roaming my skin.

“I can’t get enough of you,” he confesses, his lips brushing my ear. “I’m crazy about you.”

“I’m crazy about you, too,” I say, wrapping my legs around him.

He groans, his thrusts growing urgent. “Tell me you want me.”

“I want you,” I gasp. “Always.”

We spend the rest of the night tangled together, our bodies moving in perfect rhythm. We make love on the bed, against the wall, on the edge of the dresser—everywhere we can. Each time Randy climaxes, he releases inside me, whispering my name and holding me close. The sex is passionate, electric, and full of emotion. Randy admits he can’t imagine being with anyone else. I confess that he makes me feel safe and wanted in a way no one else ever has.

In the morning, Randy wakes me by mounting me and thrusting inside me. We climax multiple times, and he releases in me each time. We get up, brush our teeth, and eat breakfast. Afterward, we go back upstairs for more slow, passionate, and explosive sex. Randy releases in me every time he climaxes.

He’s spent, but his penis is still in me, throbbing and pulsating as he pours the last of his release into me. After we catch our breath and shower, we get dressed. As we head downstairs, Randy asks if I want him to take my dress to the dry cleaners. I thank him and tell him it’s unnecessary.

Randy thanks me for a wonderful night and apologizes for bugging me about Vic. I kiss him and thank him for inviting me. Feeling a bulge in his pants, I rest my hand over his hardening penis. We strip, and he lifts me up onto the kitchen counter, spreads my legs, and pushes inside me once again. He fucks me until he’s spent, climaxing and releasing in me seven or eight times. We catch our breath, and he helps me off the counter. We get dressed. He kisses me  softly and heads to work, knowing he’s going to be late.

Saturday, June 28, 2025

Sweet Mouths, Sweeter Secrets

Vince and I walked hand in hand through the cool, breezy evening toward Aditi’s restaurant. The quiet of the neighborhood wrapped around us, a peaceful pause after the intensity of the last few days.

We placed our order with Aditi. “We’d like to order one of each—gulab jamun, ras malai, mango kulfi, and pistachio burfi,” I said. She smiled warmly and asked, “Will you be eating here or taking it to go?”

Vince replied, “We’ll be eating here.”

“Perfect,” Aditi said, “pick any table you like, and I’ll bring everything over.”

We found a quiet corner and settled in. The soft murmur of other diners and the cool evening air made the moment feel calm and easy.

After a short wait, Aditi appeared carrying our desserts along with a bottle of cashew feni, which wasn’t part of our order.

“That one’s on me,” she said with a smile. “Consider it a little treat.”

We thanked her gratefully.

The desserts were a perfect balance of sweetness and texture—the warm syrup soaking into the soft gulab jamun, the creamy richness of the ras malai, the cool mango kulfi melting slowly, and the nutty pistachio burfi leaving a delicate crunch.

Sipping the cashew feni between bites, I looked at Vince. “So, what do you want to do when we get back to my place?”

He smiled, a playful glint in his eye. “I want to watch some golf.”

I shook my head with a laugh. “Golf isn’t allowed at my house.”

He raised an eyebrow, asking, “Then what do you want to watch?”

“A murder documentary,” I answered, smiling.

He chuckled softly, nodding in approval.

We finished our desserts and drinks, the warmth from the feni settling comfortably around us. When it was time to leave, we went up to Aditi to pay. “Dessert and the feni was on the house, my friend. Enjoy the rest of your night.”

I went behind the counter and hugged her. I whispered: “Thank you, Aditi. I appreciate you and your friendship so much.” She gave one final tight squeeze then Vince and I left.

The cool night air greeted us again as we walked back. We took our time on the way back; we even took a few selfies.

Once home, I showered and slipped into an oversized shirt. Vince set up the living room—the couch pulled out into a lounger, wine and water poured for the both of us, unscented candles lit, and the true crime channel queued up. He then went to the guest bedroom to change into shorts and a t-shirt.

We got comfortable under the blankets, making guesses about who did what to whom on the screen. The quiet intimacy wrapped around us like a soft blanket.

After a few episodes, I took off my glasses and snuggled against Vince. My hand rested on his chest as I whispered, “Vince? Let’s have sex.”

He hesitated, concern flickering in his eyes. “I want that too, but you’ve had a bit drink.”

I looked up, steady and sure. “You know that I am more than fine; I am well aware of what’s going on and I know what I want.”

“Are you sure this is what you want?” he asked.

“Yes,” I whispered back.

He leaned down, kissing me softly, his mouth gentle as he bit my lip lightly to coax me open. I welcomed the deepening kiss.

He slid out of his shorts, boxers, and shirt as I peeled off my oversized shirt.

Vince rolled me onto my back and pushed into me. We both moaned, his hands resting firmly on my hips, holding me steady. His weight pressed warmly against me, his mouth finding the curve of my neck with gentle, lingering kisses full of hunger. His lips trailed lower, nibbling softly as his hands slid along my sides, fingers teasing the sensitive skin there. I gasped, wrapping my arms around his neck, pulling him closer, feeling every inch of him moving inside me.

“God, you’re so perfect,” Vince murmured low, voice thick with feeling. “Damn, you fit me so well, my love.”

I moaned his name, fingers threading through his hair as his hips began to move in a steady rhythm. Our bodies found their pace together — slow, deep, deliberate. The heat between us grew quickly, every movement igniting a fire beneath my skin.

With each stroke, our breaths grew heavier, mingling with soft moans and groans. “Yes, Vince,” I whispered, arching into him, “don’t stop…”

He kissed my cheek, trailing down to my collarbone, then back up as he whispered, “You feel so damn good.”

We climaxed together, his cum warm and deep inside me, and I gasped, clutching him tightly. But Vince wasn’t finished. He pulled out just enough, then pushed back in with slow, demanding thrusts, again and again. I cried out his name as he came in me a second time, then a third, each time a little rougher, a little more desperate.

After the fourth time, Vince gently pulled away and rolled me onto my stomach, his hands smoothing over my back as he positioned himself behind me. He pressed into me from behind, one hand resting on my hip, the other trailing down to cup my ass. His mouth found the nape of my neck, nibbling and kissing with hunger.

“Damn, you’re still so swollen,” he said, voice rough, breath hot against my skin. “I can’t believe it.”

I shivered under his touch, fingers gripping the blankets as he began to move again. Our hands explored freely — his sliding up my back, tangling in my hair, pulling him closer with every thrust. Our mouths searched for each other in hungry kisses between gasps and low moans.

“Vince...” I breathed, voice trembling. “You feel so good.”

He groaned, pulling me tighter against him. “You’re perfect for me.”

We moved like that, bodies joined, breath mingling, hands and mouths roaming. Sometimes I’d arch back to meet his lips; other times, he’d press kisses along my shoulder, murmuring my name with every thrust.

We climaxed together several more times, Vince cumming deep inside me over and over, each time slower but no less intense.

Finally, he pulled out, rolling me gently back onto my back. Our hands found each other, fingers interlacing as he kissed me deeply, tongues exploring, lips trembling with the aftershocks of our passion.

We continued screwing the rest of the night, passionately, lost in each other until the early morning light found us exhausted but sated, wrapped tight in the and the warmth of everything we’d shared.

Marked by fire

The next day, I drifted between sleep and working from home, the tiredness from the past nights lingering like a soft, stubborn fog. Bob had gone to the office that morning to explain things in his usual concise way. “Deppgrl won’t be in for at least another week,” he told them, “but if she does stop by, no business talk. She just wants to see everyone, check in, and head home.” The message landed well—everyone understood.

In the afternoon, as I answered texts and emails from my staff, Bob and I arranged catered lunch for the office. As I finished up work for the day, I also finished the leftover bottle of wine that Vic and I had started the other night.

A few hours later, Bob came over and let himself in as usual. His eyes immediately caught the melted ice packs scattered across my office desk and nearby surfaces.

“What’s with all the melted ice packs?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

I glared at him. “I’m a little sore.”

“Sore from what?” he pressed.

I fixed him with a sharp look. “Ever since you told Vince about my two-week beach-and-fuck fest trip with Randy, you don’t get to be THAT involved in my life anymore. Keep your nose out. Got it? Now get out.”

Bob’s face darkened; he didn’t laugh or argue, but his anger was clear as he turned and left but knew that I was right.

As soon as he was gone, I grabbed my phone and called the chief of police, firmly requesting that Bob’s ability to drive by at all hours of the day to be revoked. As an auxiliary officer, once Bob’s told something by the police, he’s to step down immediately.

About an hour later, Vince showed up with several bottles of wine—both white and rosé—and three full takeout bags from the Italian restaurant we’d been to a few days earlier. The moment he stepped inside, the scent of roasted garlic, tomato sauce, and fresh herbs filled the air, thick and comforting. His gaze immediately fell on the ice packs still sitting out.

“Those from Randy and I” he asked with a teasing smile. I nodded

He set the bags and bottles on the counter and began unpacking them as I put the ice packs in the freezer. There was creamy fettuccine Alfredo with grilled chicken, its sauce still velvety and steaming; a deep, generous slice of meat lasagna layered with ricotta, ground beef, and tangy marinara; chicken parmigiana, crisp and golden beneath bubbling mozzarella and a thick coating of red sauce, paired with a side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic.

There was also eggplant parmigiana, its breaded slices tender and smothered in marinara and melted cheese—comforting and rich and pasta primavera—angel hair tossed with sautéed zucchini, red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli, all coated in a light white wine and garlic sauce. A second entrée of shrimp scampi sat in its own container, the shellfish glistening in lemon butter, parsley, and cracked black pepper.

Two foil bags held garlic knots, soft and buttery, dusted with herbs and parmesan, with a tub of herbed olive oil for dipping. The mixed green salad came with roasted red peppers, shaved parmesan, and a container of balsamic vinaigrette. For soup, he brought two kinds: creamy chicken and gnocchi, thick and hearty with pillowy gnocchi and tender chunks of chicken, and a savory beef barley, full of rich broth, vegetables, and chewy grains.

By the time everything was unwrapped, the counter was full, and the kitchen was alive with the aromas of roasted garlic, fresh basil, melted cheese, and buttered bread. It was indulgent, familiar, and unmistakably Vince.

As Vince grabbed plates and bowls, I grabbed the bottles wine and put them in the fridge.

When I turned back, Vince was looking at me intensely. In just three strides, he closed the distance, leaned down, and kissed me. I didn’t – and couldn’t - pull away.

He hefted my fat ass up onto the counter so we could be at eye level, and we continued to kiss, the world around us fading away.

“God, I want you,” Vince said as he pulled away to catch his breath. “Can you handle it?”

“Yes,” I whispered.

Vince picked me up liked I weighed nothing at all and carried me over to the rocking chair. He put me down, we stripped and he sat down on the chair. I slid down his hard dick and I moaned. Vince grabbed my hips and helped me slide up his dick; the rocking movement from the rocking chair made the sex more intense. In no time, we climaxed hard and he poured his cum in me.

“I’m nowhere done with you, my love,” he moaned as he grabbed my hips again as he began to thrust up.

“The food,” I moaned as his teeth found one of my nipples. “Yesssss…”

“I don’t care about the food,” he muffled as he was guiding me up and down his glorious dick. “I care about you!”

As he climaxed, he bit down hard on my nipple and then I felt him cum in me.

“Yessssss,” I moaned as I started sliding up and down him a little faster so I could climax. “Don’t stop!”

Vince’s mouth found my other nipple and I moaned in pleasure. Each time I slid down his dick, he slammed his dick up into me. I screamed as I climaxed…Vince followed again seconds later, clamping down on my nipple as he climaxed. It took him a few minutes to finish pouring his cum in me.

I rested my forehead on his as we caught our breath.

“That was amazing, wasn’t it?” he asked. “The food is waiting, ha ha.”

“It was incredible,” I said. “I was trying to tell you that earlier!”

He chuckled and helped me off of his lap. I threw my shirt on as he put on his shirt and his pants. Before heading back to the kitchen, he bent down to kiss me softly. “Later, old man,” I said as I rested my hand against his face. We headed into the kitchen.

As we unpacked the food, we were happy to feel that the foil containers were still held their heat. We decided to plate our food into ceramic bowls and heat up in the microwave and heat up both kinds of soup on top of the stove. Vince grabbed a bottle of rose and white wine and opened them as I took four wine glasses out…many years ago, I learned that you don’t pour different wines into the same glass….if you have multiple bottles of wine, you get as many glasses as there wine bottles.

As the kitchen filled with the rich smells of roasted garlic and melted cheese, I moved with quiet purpose, transferring the food from the ceramic bowls to serving dishes. I set the chicken parm, eggplant parm, lasagna, pasta primavera and shrimp scampi aside. I then focused on the soups—creamy chicken and gnocchi, and the beef barley—went into small saucepans on the stove to warm slowly.

Vince stood nearby, pulling plates and silverware from the cabinet, his movements easy, like he’s done it in my kitchen a dozen times before. He glanced over as I slid the large serving bowl to the side of the stove.

“You still working while you’re off?” he asked, leaning one hip against the counter as he opened a bottle of rosé.

“Just a few hours a week,” I said, accepting the glass he handed me. “Emails, check-ins. Mostly making sure Bob doesn’t burn the place down.”

Vince smirked. “He seems like a solid brother. Loyal.”

“He is,” I said, my voice softening slightly. “Even if he did overstep.”

“He did,” Vince said, sipping his wine. “Still, good to know you’ve got someone like that in your corner.”

“What about you?” I asked, lifting the lid on one of the soups to stir. “What’ve you been up to the last few days?”

He set his glass down and rolled his shoulders. “Helping a couple friends with some house projects. Replacing a broken window, fixing a leaky faucet, that sort of thing. Golfing. Drinks with friends. Keeps me busy.”

“You ever miss teaching?”

Vince took a moment to answer, eyes flicking to the bubbling pot. “Sometimes. But I don’t miss the red tape. The politics. I did what I needed to do. Now I help where I can.”

I nodded as I pulled the heated pasta from the microwave, swapping it for the next dish. “That suits you.”

He smiled, then stepped in closer. His hand slid around my waist, warm and grounding, his fingers settling just above the curve of my hip.

“You okay?” he asked quietly.

I hesitated. “Still processing. A lot’s happened.”

“Yeah,” he said, his hand tightening slightly at my waist. “But I don’t regret a second of it….that night with Randy.”

Neither did I.

“Me too,” I murmured. “But don’t put me in that position again.”

Vince leaned in, still holding me close, and kissed me gently—no hunger this time, just something warm and unspoken. His lips lingered on mine, unhurried, before he pulled back just enough to meet my eyes.

"Or positions?" he asked.

I laughed.

The soups bubbled behind us, the wine shimmered in our glasses, and the warmth of the kitchen wrapped around us like a slow breath.

Dinner moved slowly, the kitchen filled with the warm smells of garlic, tomato, and roasted vegetables. Between bites of chicken parm, pasta primavera, and the perfectly layered eggplant lasagna, we sipped on rosé and white wine, the coolness of the drinks softening the day’s edges.

I caught Vince staring at me again, his eyes lingering like he was trying to memorize every detail.

“You’re looking at me like you’re trying to memorize how I look,” I said, holding his gaze.

He smiled, a little shy but honest. “I didn’t realize just how beautiful you are until now…I always knew you were beautiful, but tonight? You’re incredibly beautiful—you’re absolutely stunning.”

I felt my cheeks flush. “Thanks,” I said softly.

Curious, I asked, “So what are your plans for the next few days?”

He relaxed into the chair and grinned. “Golf in the mornings, drinks Thursday night, helping some friends with small repairs around their houses—just little stuff like fixing leaks or shelves. And the concert Saturday night.”

"What concert?"

"Bruno Mars and The Weeknd."

"You know, you’re a little too old to be seeing Bruno Mars and The Weeknd,” I joked.

He laughed, eyes sparkling. “Maybe, but I’m not about to miss a good show.”

“True,” I said, smiling.

“Yeah, I like to keep moving,” he said. “What about you? What’s your plan while you’re off?”

“Working from home a few hours a week, mostly giving myself time to rest and clear my head.”

“That sounds good,” he said softly.

I raised my glass to him. “What are you going to do differently this time around with me?”

His eyes locked with mine. “Let you set the tone every time we meet and cherish you more—really cherish you. That’s something I didn’t do enough before.”

The weight of that promise made me pause.

As I started clearing the plates, Vince stepped close, his hand resting gently on my waist.

He held my eyes for a moment longer before leaning in to kiss me—soft, deliberate, like a promise.

We finished cleaning up slowly, sipping more wine, the clinking of dishes mixing with our quiet laughter.

When the counters were clear, Vince asked, “Want to get dessert?”

I smiled. “Yeah, where do you want to go?”

“Aditi’s,” he said. “She makes some incredible Indian desserts—creamy mango kulfi that melts on your tongue, cardamom-spiced gulab jamun soaked in sweet syrup, and pistachio-studded ras malai that’s light but indulgent. Perfect way to end the night.”

I smiled, imagining each bite. “You’ve got me craving all of it already.”

Vince caught my hand, pulling me close. His lips found mine in a deep, passionate kiss—slow and intense, full of promise. When he finally pulled away, he smiled softly and whispered, “Go get dressed. I’ll wait for you.”

I nodded, heart racing, and headed off to change while the night stretched deliciously ahead of us.

Vic's slow claim

The room was bathed in a warm, lazy light as Vic settled himself between my legs, his eyes dark with hunger tempered by tenderness. He moved slowly at first, pressing deep inside me with deliberate care, savoring every inch as if committing it to memory.

“Eres hermosa,” he murmured against my skin, his voice low and thick with desire. (You are beautiful.) “Y me tomas tan bien… mejor que nadie.” (And you take me so well… better than anyone.)

His hands cupped my hips gently, holding me steady as he began to rock against me, slow and steady. His lips brushed my collarbone, then trailed lower, pausing to circle and pinch my nipples softly, sending sharp jolts of pleasure through me.

“¿Te gusta cuando te toco aquí?” he asked, voice thick with need. (Do you like it when I touch you here?)

I gasped, biting my lip. “Sí, Vic… no pares.” (Yes, Vic… don’t stop.)

His fingers twisted my nipples slowly, teasing me, while his hips drove deep and steady. Every movement built the tension tighter, a coil ready to snap. He leaned down to suck one nipple between his lips, pulling gently before switching to the other, his hands kneading and pinching as he moved with me. Sharp waves of pleasure rolled through me, mingling with the ache deep inside.

Vic’s breath hitched as he climaxed, cumming deep inside me. He stayed buried, holding me as I trembled beneath him.

Eventually, we took a break and went downstairs together. The scent of spices and sizzling filled the air as Vic cooked for me, his touch light and teasing as he stirred the pan.

“¿Quieres un poco de vino?” he asked, pouring two glasses. (Do you want some wine?)

I said yes, taking the glass. We ate slowly, wrapped in comfortable silence, sharing three bottles of wine between us as we ate. Neither of us needed words—the soft clink of glasses and the warmth of the wine filled the spaces between glances and quiet breaths.

Afterward, we cleaned up side by side—Vic’s hand brushing mine as we moved, quiet laughter slipping between us. Then we returned upstairs.

Back in my room, Vic’s eyes burned with hunger again.

“¿Lista?” he asked softly. (Ready?)

I nodded, heart pounding.

Vic’s hands were on me immediately, pulling me close, lips crushing mine in a kiss that stole my breath. He slid inside me slow and deep, every inch igniting fire.

I whimpered, his name slipping out as he started a steady rhythm, hips grinding gently. “Así, Vic… así…” I gasped, my hands clutching his shoulders.

He groaned deep in his throat. “Quiero estar bien profundo dentro de ti." he whispered. (I want you to be deep inside of of you)

He shifted me onto my back, lifting my legs over his shoulders. The new angle sent sharp pleasure curling low, my breath hitching. His hands gripped my thighs, pulling me closer as he thrust harder, deeper.

“Más fuerte,” I begged, voice trembling with need.

“Sí, princesa,” he murmured, voice rough. “Te hago mía.” (Yes, Princess....I’m making you mine.)

Our moans mingled—his low grunts with my gasps and breathless cries—filling the quiet room. When he hit that perfect spot, I screamed his name, body arching uncontrollably.

“Vic…” I panted, sweat slick on skin.

He growled and flipped me over, pressing me onto my stomach. His hands roamed my back and down to my breasts, pinching and twisting my nipples hard. A sharp, delicious sting shot through me.

“¿Te gusta?” he asked, lips close to my ear.

“Yes…” I gasped. “Más…”

He took me harder and faster, each thrust sending shocks through my body. My moans turned to screams, fingers digging into the sheets.

“Me vuelves loco,” Vic groaned, cumming deep inside me again. (You drive me crazy.)

He pulled me back up, flipping me to straddle him. My hands found his chest as I rode him slow, savoring the stretch and fullness.

His hands cupped my breasts, thumbs flicking my nipples while his mouth found mine. “Tan hermosa,” he whispered, voice thick with need.

“Vic…” I moaned, rocking against him.

Again and again, he came inside me, the heat spreading, marking me with each release.

We shifted—kneeling, standing, pressed against the bedposts—our bodies slick and tangled. His fingers never left my nipples, teasing relentlessly, pinching and twisting until my senses were overwhelmed with pleasure.

Exhaustion finally claimed us. We collapsed, breathless and tangled in sweat-slick sheets, hearts pounding.

But dawn was no end.

Vic’s hunger returned full force.

He bent me over the kitchen counter, hands gripping my hips hard as he fucked me slow and deep. My breath hitched, fingers clutching the marble.

“Eres mía,” he growled. (You’re mine.)

From there, we moved to the home office. The door clicked shut behind us as Vic kissed me fiercely, hands roaming, thrusting harder and faster, breaking me open with every stroke—cumming deep inside me once more.

We made our way back to the bedroom, where Vic fucked me multiple times—sometimes slow and tender, other times rough and urgent—his breath ragged, voice hoarse with desire. His mouth and hands never left my nipples, licking, biting, pinching, twisting, sending sharp sparks of pleasure racing through me. And every time, he came inside me.

The shower followed, hot water running over our slick skin. He pressed me against the tile, taking me hard, fingers pinching and twisting my nipples, jolts of pleasure riding the warmth as he cummed deep inside me again.

Back in the bedroom, he mounted me one last time, cumming deep inside me with a shuddering release. He held me close, voice thick and low as he whispered,

“Me encanta lo que hace tu coña conmigo.” (I love what your pussy does to me.)

He caught my face in his hands, kissed me deeply, then pinched both nipples firmly—sending a delicious shiver racing through me.

He dressed slowly, lingering for a final look of my body before leaving; the scent of him lingering long after the door closed behind him.

After he was gone, my phone buzzed softly in my hand. A message from Vic appeared:

“Disfruté mucho mi tiempo contigo. No puedo esperar para visitarte de nuevo.”
(I really enjoyed my time with you. I can’t wait to visit you again.)

A slow smile spread across my lips as I read his words, the warmth of the night lingering even after he was gone.

I rose from the bed, muscles still tender, and stripped the bedding, carrying it to the laundry room. I moved the previous load from the washer into the dryer and loaded the bedding from last night’s passion into the washer.

The warm water of the shower soothed my skin as my fingers traced the lingering bruises—soft purples and reds—from Vic’s firm pinches, Randy’s eager teeth marks, and Vince’s possessive hands. Each mark was a testament to the nights passed, stories written on my skin.

After dressing, I cleaned the house, the rhythm calming me. When I finished, I called Darnell. Not long after, he arrived, carrying food from the diner.

We settled in, the smell of the food mingling with the quiet in the room. I shared some of the details from the last two nights, careful with what I said but honest about the intensity.

“The other night,” I began, “I took both Randy and Vince together.” I glanced at Darnell, gauging his reaction.

He raised his eyebrows, interested but not judging. “That’s… something.”

I nodded. “It was intense. Then last night was Vic.”

He leaned back, chewing thoughtfully. “Vic? You want more from him?”

I hesitated. “I do. But it’s complicated.”

Darnell looked at me closely. “Is Vic married?”

I sighed. “Yes, he is.”

He grinned. “You know, I enjoy the company of Hispanic men too.”

I looked at him knowingly, a slow smile forming. “I won’t be sharing Vic with a third person.”

We laughed, the tension easing.

Later, Darnell helped me move the bedding from the washer to the dryer, his hands steady and sure. Together, we turned my room back together.

As he grabbed his coat to leave, he said, “Jessica and I are working on getting back together. She’s coming around to the fact that I’m bi. We’re planning to have sex tonight.”

I smiled warmly. “Good luck.”

He nodded, gave me a final look, and left.

The house felt quieter, but somehow lighter — like a chapter closing and a new one beginning.

Shared pleasure, lingering heat

The morning unfolded softly, sunlight slipping through the curtains in pale, delicate streams, bathing the room in a gentle, muted glow. Wrapped in warmth, my body still thrummed with the memory of the night before. Every nerve remembered the press of their hands, the caress of their lips—a tenderness that set my heart racing again.

Vince’s mouth traced a slow, deliberate path from my collarbone downward. His lips were soft, but his teeth teased just enough to send shivers down my spine. Behind me, Randy’s breath warmed my neck as his hands roamed over my skin—possessive yet reverent.

“You’re still so warm,” Vince murmured, his voice husky with sleep and something deeper. His fingers intertwined with mine, a quiet promise.

“She’s still trembling,” Randy whispered behind me, his lips brushing my shoulder. “You want more, don’t you, baby?”

I moaned softly. “Yes… I need you. Both of you.”

Randy’s hand slipped between my thighs, fingers sliding through the slick heat there. “Fuck, you’re soaked,” he groaned. “You remember last night, don’t you?”

His fingers pressed inside, and my breath hitched. “Oh—Randy… yes—”

Vince leaned in, brushing his lips along my jaw as his fingers joined Randy’s. “You feel that, sweetheart?” he murmured. “Still so tight for us.”

My back arched, my moans caught between gasps. “Don’t stop… please…”

Randy kissed behind my ear, voice thick. “We’re not going anywhere, baby. We’re gonna make sure you feel everything.”

Vince moved between my legs, his eyes locked on mine as he replaced his fingers with his mouth. He licked through my folds slowly, deliberately, before curling his tongue inside me. I cried out, trembling.

“Vince—fuck!”

Randy grinned, watching me fall apart. “Look at you, baby. So damn perfect.”

Then Randy shifted, sliding up to mount me. His weight pressed me down, and the head of his cock pushed slowly into me.

“Yes,” I moaned. “God, Randy—”

“You feel that?” he growled, sinking deeper. “That’s what you do to me.”

He started to thrust, slow and deep, hands firm on my hips.

“You take me so well,” he panted.

I cried out with every stroke. “Oh my god—don’t stop! Don’t fucking stop!”

Vince stayed beside us, his hand stroking my thigh, his other cupping my breast. He leaned in, kissing my temple. “You’re incredible. Watching you… fuck… I could do this forever.”

Randy groaned. “I’m not gonna last. She’s gripping me like she wants to pull it out of me.”

“Then give it to her,” Vince said, voice low and firm.

Randy slammed harder, growling, “Take it, baby. Take all of me.”

I screamed as he came, body jerking as he emptied himself inside me. “Oh god—Randy—yes—yes!”

Even after he came, he didn’t stop. He slowed only slightly before thrusting again, deeper, fuller. I whimpered as he began to build again.

“You’re fucking milking me,” he groaned, voice shaking.

He came again, spilling himself with a raw moan, collapsing over me.

When he finally pulled out, slick and drained, Vince didn’t hesitate. He was on me in a breath, gripping my hips as he slammed inside.

“Mine,” he growled.

I gasped, the stretch sharp and full. “Yes, Vince—please—”

“You love how we fill you,” he said, pumping into me, hard. “You were made for us.”

“God—yes—I’m yours,” I cried. “I’m yours!”

He leaned in, panting into my neck. “So fucking beautiful. So perfect like this.”

I wrapped my legs around him, pulling him deeper. “Fill me. I want all of it.”

He came with a strangled sound, thrusting as far as he could, flooding me completely. He stayed there, holding me tight, whispering praises against my ear.

Eventually, we made our way to the shower. The warm spray cascaded over our bodies, rinsing away the traces of the night—and morning—but not the intimacy.

They weren’t finished with me.

Vince stepped in front me first, lifting my leg as he pushed into my pussy, stretching me around him. His grip on my waist was firm, his movements deep and deliberate. At the same time, Randy came in front, kissing me hard before guiding himself to my backside. He pressed in slow, inch by inch, until the stretch left me breathless and trembling.

They moved together, perfectly in sync, filling me completely—Vince buried deep in my pussy, Randy claiming me from behind. The water rushed around us, masking our moans but not the rhythm of their thrusts. My body was caught between them, lost in the overwhelming fullness, the dizzying pleasure of being taken completely.

“Fuck, she’s tight,” Randy hissed.

Vince grunted, “Don’t stop. She’s soaking me.”

My cries echoed off the tile. “Yes! Oh god—don’t stop! Please—more—”

Randy climaxed first, growling against my neck as he spilled into me, his fingers digging into my hips. Vince followed moments later, slamming deep and holding himself there as he poured every drop inside.

But they didn’t stop.

They kissed me, whispered to me, and then switched—Randy sliding into my pussy while Vince eased into my ass. The shift was slow, careful, but the intensity hit just as hard. They began to move again, harder this time, driven by the need to mark me one final time.

I was writhing, pinned between them, my body shaking as they fucked me to the edge and beyond. Vince cursed under his breath as he came again, spilling into me with a low, broken sound. Randy followed, pushing as deep as he could go as he emptied himself one last time.

When the water finally began to run cool, we stood together, breathless and trembling. They held me between them for a long, quiet moment before helping me out of the shower.

We dried off in a shared hush, their touches still reverent, their eyes lingering on mine. We got dressed slowly, stealing glances, holding on just a little longer. Then, with soft kisses—Vince’s slow and lingering, Randy’s firm and full of something unspoken—they left, the door clicking shut behind them, leaving the air thick with everything we’d shared.

After they were gone, I gathered the sweat-soaked, pleasure-stained bedding and tossed it into the washer. The quiet of the house settled around me again—but I wasn’t ready to be alone. I picked up my phone, fingers hesitating for only a breath before I tapped out a message.

Come over, Vic. Please.

The reply came fast, almost instant.

“Ya voy, preciosa.”
I'm on my way, beautiful.

I smiled faintly, the ache between my legs not gone but transformed—sharpened by anticipation. I opened the windows letting in the breeze. The fan hummed gently overhead. I pulled fresh sheets from the linen closet, then I padded barefoot back into my bedroom. I made the bed with quiet purpose, smoothing each corner, fluffing the pillows, letting the clean cotton fall over the mattress like a welcome.

I was just coming down the stairs when the door opened. Vic stepped inside without knocking, the door swinging softly shut behind him. His eyes found me instantly, standing there on the steps in nothing but a soft tee and bare thighs.

We paused—one beat, two.

“What do you want, cariño?” he asked, his voice deep, warm, threaded with heat.

I didn’t hesitate. “I want you.”

His mouth was on mine before the last word left my lips, one arm around my waist, the other cradling the back of my neck as he kissed me deep and slow and hungry. He guided me back upstairs, our bodies pressing together with every step until we reached the bedroom.

We stripped each other quietly, reverently, his eyes never leaving mine as he laid me down on the fresh bedding with care. Then he knelt, lips trailing over my breasts—kissing, sucking, gently biting until my nipples were stiff and tingling. He moved lower, worshipping me with his mouth, his tongue parting my folds, licking through the mess they’d left behind as if savoring it. My hips lifted toward him, his hands holding me steady as he kissed and licked every inch of my pussy.

Only when I was gasping and trembling beneath his mouth did he move up over me, his body strong and warm as he settled between my legs.

And then—he mounted me.

I screamed in pleasure.

 

My welcome home

The car ride was quiet but awkward.

There was a kind of peace in the silence—an unspoken understanding that things had shifted, even if none of us could name exactly how. I sat in the front seat beside Vince, his hand occasionally brushing my thigh as he shifted gears. Randy leaned forward from the back, asking gently now and then if I was comfortable or needed anything.

They’d both seen me broken in ways I wasn’t sure I’d come back from. They were part of the reason I had come back.

When we pulled into the driveway, Randy was out first, opening my door like he’d been waiting all day for something to do with his hands. Vince hovered close behind me as I climbed the steps slowly. They didn’t rush me. Didn’t treat me like glass. They let me lean when I needed to and stand on my own when I didn’t.

Inside, it smelled like home—not sterile like the hospital, but warm with laundry detergent, brewed coffee, and traces of cologne lingering in the air. Vince helped me settle on the couch, wrapping a throw blanket around me. Randy handed me a glass of water with both hands, like it was a peace offering, like it mattered.

I could feel their eyes on me—not in a possessive way, not even lustful, but quiet and reverent. They were still holding their breath.

Vince finally sat beside me, one hand resting gently on my knee. Randy crouched in front of me, his gaze open and soft.

“We’ve been thinking,” Vince said.

I tilted my head. “About what?”

Randy looked at Vince, then back at me. “About… us. All three of us.”

Vince’s thumb traced a circle on my knee. “We want you. Together. If you want that too.”

They weren’t joking. No teasing. No pressure. Just truth.

And I answered, just as simply. “Yes.”

Vince kissed me first—slow and deliberate, his hand resting at my jaw. Randy came up behind me and kissed my neck, his fingers slipping under my shirt. Their touch built like a tide: measured, deliberate, but impossible to stop.

My shirt and bra vanished. Vince leaned in to kiss my breast, lips soft over my nipple. Randy pressed himself against my back, whispering how beautiful I was, how long they’d both waited to touch me like this.

Clothes came off one piece at a time until I was bare and trembling between them. Randy gently eased me down on the couch, spreading my legs as he knelt between them and began kissing and licking with purpose. I arched, crying out, overwhelmed. Vince kissed my lips, stroked my hair, watched me fall apart with soft wonder.

Then they switched.

Vince dove between my thighs and made me come again, slower and deeper, his fingers curling just right. My body writhed, greedy for more.

“I want both of you,” I breathed, voice hoarse.

They both froze.

“You sure?” Vince asked, his voice thick.

I nodded. “I need it.”

Randy lay on the couch, pulling me on top of him. I straddled him and lowered myself slowly onto his dick, gasping at how deep he filled me. Vince came behind, hands stroking down my back, slicking himself with lube before carefully pressing into my ass.

I moaned, completely full—Randy deep in my pussy, Vince pushing into my tightest place. They began to move in rhythm, building a perfect wave of pleasure that took my breath.

“You’re so perfect,” Randy whispered, hands gripping my thighs.

“So full,” Vince groaned. “So fucking good.”

The orgasm ripped through me like lightning—sharp, blinding, endless. I clenched around them, crying out as they fucked me through it.

They flipped me—Vince laying on the couch, guiding me onto his dick. Randy came behind, slick and hard, pushing back into my ass. I collapsed into Vince’s chest, sweat-slicked and gasping, while Randy pounded deep from behind. I was wrecked and glowing.

When I came again, both men groaned—Randy pulling me back tight, Vince gripping my hips hard as they both released deep inside me. Hot. Full. Claimed.

I was barely breathing, boneless and floating in the afterglow.

“That was…” Randy murmured.

“Yeah,” Vince agreed.

But they weren’t done.

Vince leaned close. “We’re not letting you sleep on this couch.”

“Absolutely not,” Randy added.

Vince lifted me gently into his arms, carrying me through the hallway as Randy followed, hands brushing my back, still hungry despite the glow of satisfaction in all of us.

They laid me on the bed like something breakable, but I wasn’t. I was ready.

“Again?” Randy asked, eyes already dark with need.

I nodded.

Vince moved behind me on the bed, spooning me as he kissed my shoulder, while Randy settled between my legs and sucked gently on my clit. I moaned, shaking, body already thrumming.

Randy entered me again, slow and deep, while Vince wrapped his arms around me and whispered filthy praise into my ear. When I clenched again, Vince kissed my neck and flipped me to face him.

I climbed into his lap and sank down on his dick. Randy stood behind me, rubbing lube onto his dick, and slowly pressed into my ass again. The stretch, the fullness—it was devastating.

We moved together, the three of us one rhythm, one heat.

Randy bent forward, kissing the back of my neck while Vince kissed my mouth. My body rocked between them—burning, breaking, blissful.

I came again, collapsing into Vince’s chest as Randy followed, groaning into my ear as he came inside me again.

Vince came moments later, moaning through clenched teeth as he filled me, holding me close like he didn’t want to let go.

This time, when we collapsed, it was final. Spent. Glowing.

They wrapped themselves around me, warm and silent.

And then Vince whispered, “We don’t just want this night.”

Randy’s voice joined his. “We want more. We want you.”

I swallowed hard, heart full of everything we’d just shared.

But I said gently, “No.”

They stilled.

“I needed this,” I said. “I wanted this. But I don’t want to date both of you; not at the same time.”

There was a pause. A long, soft exhale.

Vince kissed my temple. “Okay.”

Randy smiled, tired and genuine. “Then we’ll just have tonight.”

I nodded. “And I’ll remember it.”

They pulled me in close.

The quiet wrapped around us, thick and humming. I could feel their breath against my skin—Vince behind me, his chest against my spine, and Randy in front, fingers lazily brushing my ribs.

We weren’t talking anymore. We didn’t need to.

Vince’s hand drifted lower. The softest touch over my belly, then between my thighs. I shifted slightly, and he exhaled, almost in surprise.

“You’re still wet,” he murmured.

I nodded against his arm. “I don’t think I’ve stopped.”

Randy watched my face as Vince slid his fingers inside me again. I gasped—sensitive, but needy. He kissed my mouth slow and deep, while Vince’s hand worked me open again.

Randy's hand joined his, and they took turns teasing me, stroking, circling, pushing me up until my thighs shook and I pressed my face into Vince’s neck, moaning.

“Let us,” Vince whispered. “One more time.”

I didn’t answer. I didn’t need to.

Randy rolled me onto my back and crawled between my legs. Vince moved beside me, supporting my head, kissing my shoulder while Randy entered me again—slow, deeper than before, the kind of stroke that made my whole body tense and beg.

I clawed at the sheets. “Yes—just like that—”

Vince kissed my breast, flicked his tongue over my nipple, watching as my hips bucked against Randy’s.

“Switch,” I said breathlessly.

Randy pulled out, and Vince took his place. I wasn’t empty long.

Vince filled me with a low groan, grabbing my thighs and holding me wide. Randy moved behind me, propping me up, whispering filth into my ear as he ran his fingers between my cheeks and slicked himself again.

“Please,” I said, voice breaking. “Do it.”

Randy entered me slowly from behind as Vince fucked me from the front. The stretch sent my eyes rolling back. My body opened to them again, almost without resistance. Every thrust from Vince pushed me back onto Randy’s cock. Every movement from Randy made me clench harder around Vince.

They had me in their rhythm again. Harder now. Slower. Deeper.

I couldn’t tell who was speaking, who was moaning, who was growling my name. It blurred into heat and wet and ache.

My body seized, orgasms colliding and crashing into each other. My mouth fell open, but I couldn’t even find sound. Just breath and light and the thick pulse of two men inside me at once.

Randy pulled out just in time to watch me ride Vince, coming again, making a mess of us all. Then he grabbed my hips and pushed back into my ass while Vince stayed buried in my pussy.

They held me, controlled me, praised me.

I could barely think. Barely breathe.

And then Vince jerked beneath me, pulling me down hard as he groaned, spilling deep one final time. The warmth of it made me cry out—broken, grateful, ruined.

Randy came a second later, buried deep in my ass, teeth against my shoulder, whispering my name like a prayer.

When they were done, we collapsed again. No one spoke. There was nothing to say.

This wasn’t about answers anymore.

It was about surrender. One last time.

We lay tangled in sweat and come and heat, hearts still racing.

There wouldn’t be another night like this.

And that’s why we made this one last.