A morning after and a new invitation

The first rays of dawn painted the sky in soft hues as I finally extracted myself from the tangle of limbs and sheets. My body hummed with a delicious ache, a testament to the night's exhaustive pleasures. A quick, hot shower washed away the lingering scent of Vince and Randy, though the memory of their touch still clung to my skin. I tossed the bedding into the washer, the rhythmic thrum of the machine a mundane counterpoint to the wildness of the hours just passed.

Downstairs, I made myself a strong cup of coffee and devoured a quick breakfast, trying to re-center myself for the day ahead. Just as I was settling down to tackle some work from home, my phone buzzed with a text notification. It was from Vic.

"Hey, busy?" his message read.

I typed back, "Going to do some work from home, but I have some time. What's up?"

His reply was almost immediate: "Could you come over for a bit? Something important."

I paused, staring at the screen. Work beckoned, new clients waiting, but the thought of another adventure, especially with Vic, was undeniably tempting. "Oh, what the hell?!" I thought, a mischievous grin spreading across my face. I quickly replied, "Be right over." Grabbing my keys, phone, and wallet, I headed out the door.

The drive was a little uncomfortable, my ass protesting with a delightful soreness from the night's marathon with Vince and Randy, but it only made me smile. It was a sweet reminder of the pleasure. I pulled up to Vic's house, parked, and knocked on his door. Almost instantly, it swung open, and there he stood, in almost all his glory, a towel wrapped precariously around his lean hips, still damp from a shower.

"Hey," he greeted, his eyes sparkling with an intensity that promised trouble. "Come in, come in."

I stepped inside, kicking off my flip-flops, the cool floor a welcome sensation. "Want anything to drink?" he asked, gesturing vaguely towards the kitchen.

"No, thanks," I replied, my gaze fixed on him. "So, what's so important that I had to skip work? I've got a ton of new clients waiting."

He closed the distance between us, his hand finding my cheek, his thumb tracing my jawline. He leaned down, his lips brushing mine, a soft, tantalizing kiss that sent a jolt through me. "I wanted to have sex with you," he murmured against my mouth, his voice a low, husky rumble. "I need you."

I chuckled, a little breathless. "I had a rough night, Vic."

He pulled back slightly, one eyebrow arching playfully. "Oh?" he challenged, a smirk playing on his lips. "Think you can't handle a few rounds with me?"

A spark ignited in my belly, mirroring the challenge in his eyes. "Try me," I breathed, my voice barely a whisper.

His smirk widened into a full-blown grin. Without another word, his towel dropped to the floor, and my clothes followed suit, discarded in a heap as we stumbled towards his bedroom, our bodies already hot with anticipation.

The bedroom was dimly lit, a soft, inviting space. I moved to the bed, lying on my back, my legs instinctively spreading wide, inviting him in. He knelt between them, his eyes devouring me before he reached down, his fingers sliding into my pussy. A soft moan escaped my lips as he explored, his touch knowing and deliberate. "God, you're soaking," he breathed, his voice thick with desire. "And so swollen. You're ready for me, aren't you?"

"More than ready," I gasped, my hips instinctively lifting. He positioned himself, his hard dick pressing against my pussy. With a powerful, unhesitating push, he drove himself into me, filling me completely. A guttural scream of pure pleasure tore from both our throats, echoing in the room. "Oh, Vic! Yes!" I cried out, my body arching to meet his depth.

He began to thrust, a slow, deliberate rhythm that quickly picked up speed. His hands found my breasts, his thumbs circling my nipples, then pinching them, making me gasp and writhe beneath him. "You feel incredible," he grunted, his breath hot on my neck. He leaned down, his mouth closing over one nipple, sucking hard, eliciting a moan that vibrated through my entire body. His other hand continued to torment the other, twisting and pulling. "Let me hear you, baby," he demanded, his voice raw. "Scream my name."

"Vic! Yes!" I pleaded, my hips bucking against his, desperate for more. He pounded into me, each thrust deeper and more insistent than the last. I could feel the pressure building, a delicious tension coiling in my core. We climaxed more times than I counted, each one more intense than the last, and he filled me with his cum every single time. My nipples were raw, exquisitely sensitive, from his relentless attention, and my pussy throbbed.

Finally, with a deep groan, he pulled out, his body trembling, leaving me aching and sated, but already wanting more. He leaned down, kissing me softly on the lips, then my forehead. "You were amazing," he whispered, his eyes full of admiration.

"I need to go," I said, my voice still a little shaky, but a smile playing on my lips. I carefully slid off the bed, my muscles protesting sweetly. I headed downstairs, gathered my discarded clothes, and quickly got dressed, the fabric feeling strange against my sensitive skin. With a final, lingering look at Vic, I grabbed my keys, phone, and wallet, and headed back home.

I got home and immediately settled in to start work. Thankfully, Tara had been stepping up a ton. At my request, she had given our new clients limited information about my short hours, explaining that I was waiting on medical clearance to return to full capacity after three hospital visits due to stress and trauma. The new clients, upon hearing of my situation, were incredibly understanding and supportive, sending well wishes and assuring me they were happy to work with me when they can and work with the team in the when I needed time. This meant the team would be helping me out a bit longer, and I was immensely grateful. Thank fuck for Tara, who had taken the list of our clients and divvied it up between us; she reached out to half, and I took the other half. In no time at all, we both made contact with everyone, ensuring no one felt neglected despite my unexpected, and rather pleasurable, detour.

Just as I was getting into the rhythm of work, my phone buzzed again. Two texts this time. One from Vince: "Hope you're doing okay after last night. Thinking of you." And another from Randy: "Morning, gorgeous. How's that ass feeling? 😉" A soft laugh escaped me as I quickly replied to both, assuring them I was fine, just a little sore.

Minutes later, my phone rang. It was Kay. "Hey, stranger! How are you doing? I heard you had quite the night."

"Hey, Kay! I'm good, really good. Yeah, it was... eventful," I chuckled, a warm blush creeping up my neck. "Randy actually just texted me. He's got a date planned for tonight."

"Oh, really? A date? With you?" she asked, her voice laced with excitement. "What's he got up his sleeve?"

"No clue," I admitted, shrugging even though she couldn't see me. "He just said he had something planned. I'm excited to find out."

We chatted for a few more minutes, catching up, before finally getting off the phone. As soon as I hung up, I remembered the bedding still in the washer. I quickly moved it to the dryer, then decided another shower was in order, just to fully shake off the lingering haze of the morning. Afterwards, I slipped into some soft, lightweight loungewear, feeling refreshed and ready for whatever the afternoon held.

Around 3:45 PM, my phone rang again. It was Randy. "Hey there," he purred, his voice a low rumble that sent shivers down my spine. "Just calling to confirm our plans for tonight. Dinner at that new jazz club downtown, and then some dancing."

"Oh, a jazz club? Sounds wonderful," I said, a smile spreading across my face. "Dancing, too?"

"Absolutely," he confirmed, his voice deepening. "I want to have you in my arms in a very different way tonight, sweetheart. Swaying to the music, close and personal."

I smiled, a thrill running through me. "Sounds perfect. What should I wear?"

"Something sexy," he said simply, his voice laced with mischief.

I laughed, a genuine, delighted sound. "Alright, 'something sexy' it is. See you tonight."

As soon as we hung up, I immediately called Dominic's niece, Auriella. "Auriella, I need your help, desperately!" I exclaimed.

"What's up, Deppgrl?" she replied, her voice bright and energetic.

"I have a date tonight, jazz club, dancing, and Randy said, 'something sexy.' I'm completely lost!"

"Say no more! I'll be right over," she declared, and true to her word, she was at my door within twenty minutes.

Knowing I'm a fan of sturdy cars, she picked me up in Dominic's Jeep rather than her sleek sports car. "Thought you'd appreciate the ride," she winked, as I settled into the passenger seat. We headed straight to her favorite store, a chic boutique I'd passed many times but never dared to enter.

"I'm nervous they won't have anything my size," I confessed, fidgeting slightly as we approached the entrance.

Auriella squeezed my arm reassuringly. "Don't worry about that for a second. I'm working on getting these stores to be more size-inclusive, and this place has been incredibly excited to join me on this cause. They've got a fantastic range." I felt a wave of relief wash over me.

As we walked in, the staff immediately came over, their faces lighting up as they greeted Auriella and then me. "What are we looking for today?" one asked, her eyes bright.

Auriella explained, "My aunt has a date tonight, jazz club, dancing. She needs something that moves, something that makes her feel incredible. And shows off her incredible tits!"

The staff knew exactly what to grab. They pulled so many styles, colors, and sizes, a vibrant array of fabrics and designs. With their expert eye and Auriella's keen fashion sense, I tried on several stunning options. Finally, I settled on a halter top V-neck ruffle hem dress in a striking red, floor-length and flowing that seemed to glide with every movement and enhanced the appearance of my breasts.

"This is it," Auriella declared, nodding approvingly. "Now, for shoes." They helped me find a pair of comfortable, yet elegant gold heels that matched the dress perfectly and were tall enough to ensure I wouldn't step on the hem while dancing.

"And a purse," Auriella added, turning to the staff with a serious expression. "Due to some health concerns," she began, carefully omitting any mention of asthma, "she needs a purse that's not only stylish but practical enough to carry essentials." They quickly found one that matched the dress's red perfectly. It was a chic clutch, surprisingly spacious, big enough to comfortably fit my asthma inhaler, phone, charger, wallet, and chapstick.

With our arms filled with my new outfit, Auriella and I went up front to the register. As the staff rang everything up, the price displayed was significantly more than I could afford, but I kept my poker face, not letting my dismay show. The staff, however, seemed to be inspecting the dress, shoes, and purse with unusual scrutiny. "Oh, look here," one said, pointing to a fake tiny snag on the dress. "And a bit of thread sticking out of the seams on the purse," another added. "And a scuff mark on this shoe," a third chimed in. They exchanged knowing glances, then significantly dropped the price. I knew it was because Auriella was there, pulling strings for me. "Thank you so much," I said, genuinely grateful, as I paid the much-reduced amount.

As we were heading home from the boutique, Auriella and I decided to stop for lunch – my treat. We pulled up to a little soul food/barbecue hole-in-the-wall restaurant that smelled absolutely divine. "You are going to love this place," I told her, already salivating.

"Oh, I'm trusting you, Deppgrl," she laughed, following me inside.

The mac and cheese was the best I'd ever had, creamy and rich, a true comfort. The fried chicken was so crispy and juicy it practically melted in your mouth, the kind that promised to clog your arteries in the most delicious way. And the pulled pork sandwiches, slathered in tangy barbecue sauce and topped with crisp pickles on a buttered, toasted roll, were pure heaven. Auriella’s eyes widened with each bite. "Oh my God," she mumbled through a mouthful of mac and cheese, "this is incredible! Seriously, the best mac and cheese ever!"

"Told you!" I grinned.

She loved the food so much, we ended up ordering more to take home – some for her, and a generous portion for me to savor later.

Back at my house, she helped me carry my new outfit and the leftover food inside. "Thank you so much, Auriella," I said, giving her a warm hug. "You're a lifesaver. I don't know what I would have done without you."

"Anytime, Deppgrl," she smiled, hugging me back. "I hope you have an absolutely amazing time tonight. You deserve it." With a final wave, she was off.

Barely twenty minutes later, just as I was putting away the leftovers, my doorbell rang. It was Vince, holding a steaming cup of coffee. "Hey," he said, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Just checking in on you. Thought you might need a pick-me-up."

"Vince, you're a godsend!" I exclaimed, gladly accepting the coffee. I took a grateful sip. "Are you trying to make me fall asleep?" I teased, a playful glint in my eye.

He looked puzzled. "What?"

I chuckled. "I have ADHD, and for us ADHDers, coffee works differently for us. Normally, a stimulant prescription is used but because I don’t respond to it, I drink coffee. Coffee, as a stimulant that it is, actually slows down our minds. It helps us focus, but it can also make us feel a bit mellow, almost sleepy."

His eyes widened in surprise. "Seriously? I had no idea coffee affected ADHD like that. Learn something new every day." He set his own cup down, his gaze softening as he reached out, his thumbs beginning to rub gently over my sensitive nipples, which were already aching from the night before. A soft moan escaped my lips, a delicious shiver running through me.

I put my coffee down on the counter, my focus shifting entirely to him. Without a word, our clothes came off, discarded in a heap on the floor. He lifted me effortlessly onto the cool kitchen counter, my legs instinctively wrapping around his waist. I spread them wide, inviting him in, and with a guttural groan, he pushed into me, filling me completely. "Ah, fuck!" we both screamed in unison, the sound echoing off the kitchen tiles. He began to thrust in and out of me, a steady, powerful rhythm that quickly picked up pace, driving me against the hard counter. His hands found my breasts, his fingers expertly pinching and rolling my nipples, making me gasp and arch my back. "You're so good, baby," he rasped, his breath hot against my ear. "So incredibly good." In no time, we were both climaxing, a raw, explosive release that rocked my entire body. He came hard in me, a deep, shuddering cum that filled me to overflowing. As he pulled out, he let out another deep moan and shot yet another load of hot cum inside me, leaving me trembling and slick. He carefully helped me off the counter.

"I just remembered," I panted, my voice still breathless, "my dress for tonight!" I quickly retrieved it from the bag and went to hang it up carefully. When I returned, Vince was already cleaning the counter, leaving no trace of our impromptu encounter. "You're too good to me," I smiled, wrapping my arms around him.

He kissed me softly, passionately, his lips lingering on mine. "Just making sure you're ready for your date tonight," he teased. "See you later." With a squeeze of my ass, he left.

Barely twenty minutes later, Randy swung by his usual confident swagger in full effect. "Hey there, gorgeous," he said, leaning against the doorframe. "Just wanted to let you know I'll be here around 6:15. The car should be here around 6:30."

"Thanks for the heads-up, Randy," I said, a genuine smile on my face. "See you then." I looked at my watch. It was already 5 PM. Time to get ready.

I headed straight for the bathroom, turning on the shower and letting the hot water soothe my still-tender body. After a thorough wash, I cleansed my face, then applied my favorite moisturizer, letting its cool touch calm my skin. A spritz of my signature perfume, and I felt a little more put together. I knew I’d wear thongs with the dress, but no bra; the halter top design held up my large breasts perfectly, offering both support and a hint of cleavage without needing extra padding. A soft, smoky eye and a touch of lip gloss completed my makeup, and I styled my hair in loose, elegant waves. By 6:15 PM, I was ready, feeling confident and excited.

I was just making my way down the stairs when Randy let himself in, his eyes immediately finding me. He stopped dead, a low whistle escaping his lips. "Wow," he breathed, his gaze sweeping over me, "You're absolutely stunning." He closed the distance between us, pulling me into a deep, lingering kiss that tasted of anticipation and something more. "Ready for our night?" he murmured against my lips.

"More than ready," I replied, my heart fluttering.

We settled into the living room, sharing a bottle of exquisite red wine. The conversation flowed easily, light and teasing, as we each enjoyed a few glasses, the alcohol warming my body and loosening any lingering nerves.

When the driver finally arrived, Randy was quick to help me. He opened the car door with a flourish, then carefully guided me in, making sure the long, flowing red dress didn't catch on the car door or get tangled. "Wouldn't want to crease that masterpiece," he whispered, a playful glint in his eye.

"Wouldn't want that at all," I chuckled, settling comfortably.

On the way, we talked excitedly about the jazz club. "I've heard great things about this place," Randy said, his hand finding mine and lacing our fingers together. "Supposed to have some of the best live music in the city."

"I'm so curious to see what it's like," I replied, squeezing his hand. "I love jazz, but I haven't been to a proper club in ages."

The car pulled up to a nondescript brick building, nestled between a brightly lit bistro and a quiet bookstore. The only indication of its nature was a subtle, glowing neon sign above a heavy wooden door that simply read "The Velvet Note" in elegant cursive. A faint murmur of saxophone music could already be heard, a tantalizing whisper of the sounds within.

Randy helped me out of the car, his hand steadying me as I stepped onto the curb, his eyes ensuring my dress didn't catch on anything. He took my hand, his fingers intertwining with mine, and we walked towards the entrance. As he pushed open the heavy wooden door, a wave of warm, rich sound washed over us.

The inside was simply gorgeous. The lighting was low and intimate, cast by dozens of small, amber-toned lamps scattered throughout the space, highlighting plush velvet banquettes and dark, polished wood tables. A grand piano gleamed under a spotlight on a raised stage in the corner, where a trio of musicians were already playing a smooth, soulful melody. The walls were adorned with framed black and white photographs of legendary jazz musicians, and the air was thick with the subtle scent of aged whiskey and something sweet, like vanilla and old leather. The ambiance was sophisticated, yet incredibly inviting, a perfect blend of elegance and comfort.

"Wow," I breathed, my eyes wide as I took it all in. "This is... incredible, Randy. It's even better than I imagined."

He squeezed my hand, a proud smile on his face. "Told you it was special. Ready to get lost in the music?"

I pulled him close, my arms wrapping around his neck, and kissed him deeply, letting my lips do the talking. When I finally pulled back, I whispered, "Someone is definitely getting lucky tonight when we get home."

"When we get home?" he asked, his eyes widening slightly, a playful grin spreading across his face.

"Yes," I confirmed, my smile mischievous.

He let out a low chuckle, then held me close, dipped me dramatically, and kissed me again, a long, passionate kiss that left me breathless. When he pulled me up, we were both laughing and smiling, the promise of the night dancing between us.

We were then escorted to our table, nestled in a cozy corner. The table was set immaculately with sparkling crystal glasses, gleaming silver silverware, and delicate dishes that resembled my great-grandmother's finest China, each piece a work of art. I looked at Randy, my heart swelling. "This is perfect!" I told him, my voice soft with emotion.

He reached across the table, his thumb gently rubbing my cheek. "It's the perfect place to bring the woman that I love," he said, his gaze unwavering, his words hitting me with the force of a physical blow. I was completely shocked, unable to form a coherent reply, so I simply leaned in and kissed him, pouring all my unspoken feelings into the gesture. He pulled my chair out for me, a gentlemanly gesture, and helped guide it closer to the table before he sat down next me.

As the band played, a smooth, intricate melody filling the air, our food was brought out. We began with a delicate French onion soup, rich and savory, followed by perfectly seared duck breast with a cherry reduction, and tender roasted vegetables. We savored each bite, pairing it with a robust Cabernet Sauvignon, its deep notes complementing the meal perfectly. We talked about so many things, from our day to our dreams, our conversation flowing effortlessly, barely noticing the other people around us, lost in our own little world.

Once our dishes were cleared, the band leader announced, "The dance floor is officially open!" Randy immediately stood, his hand extended to me. "Come on," he said, his eyes sparkling. "I can't wait to show you off."

I smiled, taking his hand. "And I can't wait to show you off either."

We danced for what felt like hours, swaying to the soulful saxophone, twirling to the upbeat piano, our bodies moving in perfect sync. The world outside the dance floor faded away, leaving only the music and the feel of his arms around me.

Eventually, exhausted but exhilarated, we came back to our table for dessert. A decadent chocolate lava cake, its warm, gooey center oozing out with each spoonful, was paired with a sweet, amber-hued Sauternes, the perfect end to a magnificent meal. After dessert, we couldn't resist one more turn on the dance floor, losing ourselves in the music until our legs ached and our lungs burned. By the time we were truly exhausted, it was 2 AM. The club had to politely, but firmly, tell us it was time to leave. The driver was already waiting outside to pick us up.

On the way back to my place, lulled by the gentle hum of the car and the lingering warmth of Randy's presence, I fell asleep. I didn't even stir when we arrived. The next thing I knew, I was being gently lowered onto my bed, a soft groan escaping my lips. My eyes fluttered open to see Randy carefully taking off my shoes. "God, I want you," I told him, my voice thick with sleep and desire.

He smiled, a tender, loving look in his eyes. "I want you too, gorgeous." Our clothes came off, his hitting the floor with a soft thud, but he carefully hung my beautiful red dress in the closet before making his way back to the bed.

He slid between my legs, his dick already hard and throbbing, and with a soft groan of pleasure from both of us, he pushed into my pussy, filling me completely. He began to thrust, a slow, deep rhythm that quickly intensified, driving into me with passionate force. We had passionate sex until dawn, our bodies entwined, our moans filling the quiet room, before finally collapsing into a deep, sated sleep.

Around 8 AM, I woke up enough to grab my phone. "Taking the day off 😉," I texted Tara. Her reply came back almost instantly: "Understood! Enjoy your well-deserved break!" I smiled, laying back down, and Randy immediately wrapped me tight into his arms, pulling me against his warm body. He whispered, "I love you," his voice raspy with sleep and affection.

"I love you too," I whispered back, burying my face in his chest, feeling utterly content.

We spent the rest of the day in bed, making love, sleeping, and just being in each other's arms, lost in our own world of intimacy and affection.

When we finally managed to get up, the late afternoon sun streaming through the windows, I turned to Randy. "I have one more date before I have to make a decision," I told him gently, my heart heavy with the words.

He nodded, his expression understanding. "I get it. I did my best to show you what we could have." He pulled me into a tight hug.

I kissed him, a soft, lingering kiss. "You were amazing, Randy. Truly. And I appreciate everything you did for me, showing me what a relationship with you could be like." Before he left, he pulled me close again, his eyes dark with a familiar hunger. He fucked me hard, his body slamming into mine, and I loved every powerful thrust, every deep penetration. We climaxed and came hard so many times, our bodies shaking with the intensity of it all. He kissed me deeply, passionately, before finally pulling away and leaving.

I knew that the decision I was going to make would be incredibly tough, perhaps one of the hardest of my life. On one hand, there was Vince, a man I'd known practically my entire life, whose presence was a comforting constant, a deep-rooted history that was impossible to ignore. Ending things with him would mean severing a bond that had woven itself into the very fabric of my existence. On the other, there was Randy, a man I'd only known for a year, whose passion and intensity had captivated me, despite the complicated reality of his children, whom I frankly couldn't stand. Did I choose the comfort and familiarity of a lifelong connection, or the exhilarating, unpredictable passion of a newer, more challenging love? It was a choice between two vastly different futures, each with its own profound implications.

I just had to go through one more date.

 

A new chapter begins

The air in the room crackled with anticipation, thick and heavy as Vince, Randy, and I stood, our gazes locked. A silent question hung between us, a palpable tension that hummed beneath the surface. My heart hammered against my ribs, a frantic drumbeat against the quiet.

Breaking the silence, I finally voiced the thought that was undoubtedly on all our minds, my voice a little breathless. "So," I began, looking from Vince's intense eyes to Randy's knowing smirk, "are we starting this together, a threesome right from the get-go? Or," I paused, a mischievous glint in my eye, "are you two planning to take me on one at a time? And if it's one at a time, will it be privately, or will the other be able to watch?" The words hung in the air, a direct challenge, an invitation to explore the very edges of our desires.

A beat passed, the anticipation almost unbearable. Then, Randy's smirk widened, and Vince's eyes deepened. Vince was the first to speak, his voice a low rumble that sent a shiver down my spine. "We're going to tease you to get you ready for us, " he stated, his gaze unwavering, "then we’re going to share you."

Randy stepped forward, his hand lightly brushing my arm, sending a jolt through me. "But yes," he added, his voice a husky whisper, "it'll be one at a time. I'm going first." He paused, his thumb tracing a path up my arm, "And as for watching... that'll be up to the other." The unspoken possibilities stretched before us, vast and thrilling, now with a clear, tantalizing direction.

As their words settled, a primal urge surged through me. My hands, almost of their own accord, began to explore the hard planes of their bodies, tracing the contours of muscle and bone beneath their clothes. Simultaneously, their hands found me, their touch a searing exploration across my skin. I leaned in, kissing them deeply, tasting the thrill of anticipation on their lips, as their mouths found mine, and their hands continued their delicious assault, caressing, pinching, and biting my nipples, sending shivers of pure pleasure through me. A sharp gasp escaped my throat as Randy's thumb circled one peak, then squeezed, while Vince's fingers brushed over the other, sending sparks through my core.

With a shared glance, they began to strip, their movements fluid and deliberate. Randy, his eyes burning with desire, ripped my oversized shirt from my body, the fabric tearing with a satisfying sound. His mouth descended on mine, a hungry kiss, as his fingers found my nipples, pinching them hard, eliciting a choked gasp. "God, yes!" I whimpered, my back arching. Behind me, I felt Vince's presence, his breath warm on my neck. A moment later, his fingers slid into my pussy, a gentle yet probing invasion. "Oh, you're more than ready," he murmured, his voice husky with approval, confirming the delicious wetness he found there. "So wet, just for us. Dripping for us."

Randy lifted me effortlessly, pushing me back against the cool wall. Without a moment's hesitation, he shoved his hard dick into me, a guttural groan escaping his lips as he found his mark, filling me to the hilt. "Fuck, you're tight!" he rasped, his breath hot against my ear. He began to thrust, slowly at first, a deep, rhythmic motion that sent waves of raw, exquisite pleasure through my core. "Feel that? This is just the beginning of what we'll do to you." I could only whimper, "Mmm, Randy... yes!" my hips instinctively meeting his thrusts, begging for more. His free hand found my breast, thumbing my already swollen nipple, twisting it gently. The pace quickened, his movements becoming more forceful, driving me against the wall with each powerful stroke, grinding our bodies together. "You like that, don't you, baby?" he muttered, his voice thick with desire. "Tell me you want more of this cock. Tell me what a good girl you are." I gasped, "More! Oh, God, yes!" We climaxed - a series of explosive climaxes that shook my entire body -  my legs trembling, and each time, he filled me with his hot, thick cum, leaving me dripping and wanting.

Finally, Randy pulled out, a wet, sucking sound, stepping to the side, his chest heaving, his dick still glistening. Vince was there instantly, his eyes dark with hunger, taking my hand and leading me to the couch. He bent me over the plush cushions, spreading my legs wide, exposing me completely. With a powerful, unhesitating thrust, he pushed his thick dick into my pussy from behind, burying himself deep inside. "Ah, fuck!" he groaned, his voice raw. He slammed into me, a relentless, primal rhythm that left me breathless and gasping. "That's it, baby," he grunted, "take all of me. Let me fill you. You're so hot." I gasped, "Oh, Vince... yes!” He continued to pound into me for what felt like an eternity, driving me deeper into the couch with each thrust, stretching me to my limits. His hands found my breasts, expertly pinching and rolling my nipples, making me cry out. "You're so tight," he breathed, his voice strained, "so perfect. I can feel every inch of you gripping me." I arched my back, desperate for more, my hips bucking against his, "Don't stop, please, don't stop! Faster!" We climaxed a few more times, the room echoing with our guttural cries, and he too, filled me with his warmth, his cum flooding my pussy. He eventually pulled out, a slow, deliberate withdrawal that left me aching, helped me to my feet, and with a shared, knowing look, we moved upstairs.

We arrived in my room, the soft lamplight casting long shadows, hinting at the delicious darkness to come. Vince settled into the large armchair, his eyes never leaving mine, burning with anticipation. I straddled him, my body already humming with a renewed, insatiable desire. Slowly, deliberately, I lowered myself onto his hard, throbbing dick, a long, drawn-out moan escaping my lips as I felt him stretch and fill me completely. "Oh, God," I whispered, my voice thick with pleasure, "that's incredible. You feel so good, so deep!"

Beside us, Randy slicked a generous amount of lube onto his own thick dick, his gaze fixed on me, a predatory gleam in his eyes. With a soft grunt, he pushed into my ass from behind, a sharp gasp tearing from my throat as I felt the intense stretch, then the glorious fullness. "Randy!" I moaned his name, a mix of delicious pain and exquisite pleasure. He leaned forward, his mouth finding my nipple, sucking and teasing it while his other hand pinched the other, making me writhe. "You're so greedy, aren't you?" he purred against my ear. I began to ride Vince's dick, a slow, grinding motion, my hips swirling, as Randy started to thrust his dick in and out of my ass, a steady, powerful rhythm that hammered into me. "Fuck, you feel so good," Vince groaned beneath me, his hands gripping my hips, his fingers digging into my flesh, urging me on. "Harder, baby, ride me harder! Take all of me! Show me how much you want it!" I whimpered, my head thrown back, a desperate sound escaping my lips, as Randy's thrusts intensified, pushing me deeper onto Vince. "God, yes! Don't stop! Please!" My nipples were aching, swollen from the constant attention, and I could feel the delicious pressure building with each thrust, each groan, each breath. We fell into a primal rhythm, a symphony of moans and gasps, climaxing often, our bodies shaking with pleasure. Each time, they both filled me, their hot, heavy cum a delicious invasion, pooling deep inside.

Finally, Randy pulled out with a soft pop, his breath ragged, his dick slick and spent. "That was just a warm-up," he chuckled, his eyes glinting with a promise of more. I slowly climbed off Vince, his dick sliding out of me with a wet, sucking sound, leaving me throbbing and empty. "Ready for the next round?" Vince asked, his eyes gleaming with a possessive heat, pulling me closer for a quick, searing kiss. "More than ready," I panted, my body tingling, aching for their touch. We moved to the bed.

Randy laid down on his back, his dick already hard and waiting, pointing straight up. I straddled him, a familiar wave of pleasure washing over me as I slowly, deliciously, lowered myself onto his dick, feeling it slide into my wet pussy, filling me completely. "Mmm, that's it," Randy breathed, his hands coming up to cup my ass, pulling me down tighter onto his length. "Just like that. You feel so good wrapped around me, so fucking tight." Vince, ever the attentive one, lubed his own dick, then positioned himself behind me. With a firm, deliberate push, he entered my ass, eliciting another sharp gasp from me as I felt the glorious stretch and then the deep, satisfying fullness. "Mmmm, so good," he whispered, his voice a low growl, his hips already beginning to move. "Such a tight little ass, perfect for me. Let me pound you." He reached around, his fingers finding my breasts, expertly pinching and twisting my nipples, making me gasp and buck. I began to ride Randy's dick, my hips moving in a steady circle, grinding against him, as Vince pumped his dick in and out of my ass, a relentless, driving force that pushed me further onto Randy. "You're amazing," Randy muttered, his voice strained with pleasure, his fingers digging into my hips. "So fucking good. I could stay like this all night, buried deep inside you." Vince grunted, his breath hot on my neck, "No rest for the wicked, is there, sweetheart? We're just getting started. Take it all." I cried out, caught between the two of them, my body stretched to its limits, "Oh, yes! Don't stop, please!" We climaxed, a powerful, simultaneous cum that left us all breathless and shaking, and again, they both came deep inside me, filling me to overflowing. Vince eventually pulled out, a slow, lingering withdrawal, and I slowly climbed off Randy, our bodies slick with sweat and satisfaction, ready for the next delicious moment.

The night stretched before us, a canvas for our shared desires. From the plush carpet of the living room to the cool surface of the kitchen counter, and even the smooth, polished wood of the dining table, Randy and Vince continued to share me, their bodies hot and demanding. Each horizontal surface became a new stage for our escalating passion, a testament to their insatiable hunger and our boundless pleasure, until the first hint of dawn painted the sky.

As the morning light began to filter through the curtains, a sense of contented exhaustion settled over us. Randy, still breathing heavily, finally pushed himself off me. "I think it's time for a shower," he rasped, giving my ass a squeeze before heading towards the bathroom. Vince, his eyes still heavy-lidded with desire, pulled me close, wrapping an arm around my waist. "Looks like it's just you and me for a bit, sweetheart," he murmured, his lips finding my neck. He rolled us over, pulling me on top of him, and with a lazy grin, he slid his hard dick back into my pussy. "Let's make the most of this private moment." I moaned, settling onto him, feeling his dick once more, as he began to thrust slowly, possessively, his fingers teasing my nipples, making them ache with renewed sensitivity. "Mmm, yes," I whispered, burying my face in his neck, "just us. Fill me up, Vince." We spent a delicious amount of time in this intimate embrace, his rhythm deep and unhurried, until the sound of Randy emerging from the shower signaled the end of our private interlude. Vince came so hard in me, a final, shuddering release.

"My turn," Randy announced, his voice refreshed, as Vince reluctantly pulled out of me with a soft sigh. "Don't worry," Vince chuckled, giving my ass a playful slap as he stood, "I'll be back." He headed for the shower, leaving me with Randy. Randy wasted no time, pulling me onto his lap, his freshly clean skin a stark contrast to my still-sweaty body. He immediately found my pussy with his fingers, teasing me until I was squirming. "Miss me?" he whispered, his lips brushing my ear. "So much," I breathed, arching into his touch. He then guided his still-hard dick into me, and we resumed our dance, his thrusts powerful and deep, his hands roving over my body, pinching and sucking my nipples until I cried out. "You're mine now," he growled, his voice thick with pleasure, "all mine." I whimpered, my hips grinding against him, as the sounds of Vince showering filled the background. We continued until Vince emerged, refreshed and ready for the day. We climaxed hard and Randy came in me, a final, potent surge.

They shared me several more times before they had to leave, their hunger for me seemingly endless. As they were thrusting in and out of me, they admired the bruises and bite marks they left on my breasts and nipples, their fingers tracing the reddened skin, a proud testament to our night of abandon. "You wear our marks well," Vince had purred, his lips brushing my ear. "Every single one," Randy added, his grip firm on my hip.

Later, as they were getting dressed, a comfortable silence hung in the air, punctuated by the rustle of clothes. Randy turned to me, a playful glint in his eye. "Well, that was quite the night, wasn't it?" he said, pulling on his shirt. "I've got a date planned for us tonight. Thought you might enjoy another round." He winked, and a thrill shot through me, already anticipating what fresh pleasures the evening would bring. Vince simply smiled, a knowing, satisfied look on his face, as they prepared to leave, leaving me with the lingering scent of their bodies and the promise of more.

Aftermath and isolation

The moment Vince's car disappeared down the street, Kay arrived, her face a mask of grim determination. She barely made it through the front door before the first news vans began to pull up, their satellite dishes already whirring to life, cameras flashing like a sudden, unwelcome storm. The quiet morning shattered under the jarring cacophony of reporters and camera crews descending upon my street.

Kay knew the full extent of what had transpired with Tomas. Our immediate concern was the unknown: we couldn't be certain if he had co-conspirators, though we'd learn days later it was just him. For now, we had to maintain a strict, unified public stance.

For the first few days, even a quick trip to the mailbox became an ordeal. Reporters swarmed, microphones thrust into my face, questions fired relentlessly.

"Ms. Smith! Did you have any prior knowledge of Tomas Ezekial's illegal activities?" one shouted, his voice grating.

"Were you complicit in his schemes?" another yelled.

I kept my answers consistent, my voice calm and measured despite the frantic pounding in my chest. "I suspected nothing. This was all a complete surprise to me, just as it was to everyone else." I repeated variations of this, offering no further comment, retreating quickly back inside the perceived safety of my home.

By day two, the relentless media presence became unbearable. Kay, witnessing my frayed nerves, took decisive action. She called Darnell.

"Darnell, it's Kay. We need some assistance over at Deppgrl's residence," she stated, her voice tight with suppressed frustration. "The media circus is completely out of control. We need a few officers to keep them off the property. She can barely breathe out here."

Within the hour, three patrol cars arrived. A few officers began politely, but firmly, establishing a perimeter, instructing reporters to move back from the property line. It offered some relief, but they still lingered, shouting questions from the sidewalk, their cameras perpetually aimed at my house.

By day four, the situation escalated further. Chief Miller, the no-nonsense Chief of Police, arrived herself. She took one look at the persistent crowd and her jaw tightened.

"Alright, listen up!" Chief Miller's voice boomed, cutting through the persistent chatter. "This is private property. You've had your time. Pack up your gear and leave. Now."

A reporter, bolder than the rest, stepped forward. "Chief, we have a right to cover this story! The public deserves answers!"

Chief Miller's eyes narrowed, a steely glint in them. "You have a right to cover the story from public property. This is private property. If you are not completely off this property, every single one of you, in the next five minutes, I will have you arrested for trespassing. Is that clear?"

The threat was unmistakable. Grumbling, the reporters began to pack up their equipment, their briefcases, and their cameras. Within minutes, the street was clear, leaving an eerie, blessed silence in its wake.

That entire week, I maintained a complete radio silence with Vince and Randy. Any and every message they sent went through Kay, who acted as my sole intermediary. She'd relay their concerns, their well-wishes, and their questions with a professional detachment that did little to ease my longing.

"Vince wants to know if you're eating," Kay would say, reading from her phone, "He's worried about you."

"Randy asked if you need anything from the store," she'd add later, "He sounds pretty concerned."

I missed their voices—the way they'd deepen when they were serious or lighten when they teased. I missed their touches—the comforting brush of a hand, the warmth of an embrace. And more than anything, I missed the way they said my name as they released in me. The silence from them, even by proxy, was deafening.

"Hey," Kay said, pulling me from my thoughts as she was reading from her phone. "Do you remember that day, a while back, when you had both Randy and Vince over, and then a few days later, you asked Vince not to be put in the same position?"

I sighed, the memory a mix of embarrassment and lingering heat. "Yes," I mumbled, facepalming myself and groaning. "Why?"

"Well," Kay continued, undeterred, "they want to put you in that spot again. Mostly to get your mind off how things have been since Tomas's arrest."

"Oh, God," I groaned, my face still in my hands.

"What happened that night, anyway?" Kay pressed, her voice laced with curiosity.

I lowered my hands, looking at her. "You don't want to know."

"Oh, but I do," she insisted, leaning forward, her eyes bright. "Tell me. What happened that night?"

I took a deep breath, resigning myself. "We had a threesome."

Kay's eyebrows shot up. "The three of you had sex?"

"More like they spent the night fucking me," I corrected, a wry smile playing on my lips. "Why do you want to know, Kay?”

Kay leaned back, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Because they're interested in doing that again."

"No!" I exclaimed. "Tell them I said no."

Kay didn't hesitate. She immediately got on her phone and walked into the next room. I could hear the muffled intensity of her voice, though I couldn't make out the words. She was clearly laying into them. A few minutes later, she stomped back into the living room, fuming and muttering under her breath, "Honestly, what do she see in them?"

I laughed out loud, a genuine, unburdened laugh that felt foreign after the past week. "Half the time, I ask myself the exact same question."

We talked for a bit longer, mostly about the ongoing fallout from Tomas's arrest and the sudden influx of new business inquiries. Kay gave me updates on the legal proceedings and reassured me that my public image was, surprisingly, untarnished. Eventually, she stood to leave. "Alright, I'm heading out for a bit. Try to get some rest, okay? You've earned it."

"Thanks, Kay. For everything," I said, genuinely grateful. "I'll try."

Kay left, promising to return later. True to her word, about two hours later, I heard her key in the lock. She'd gone home, showered, seen her husband, and was back to help.

Not long after Kay left for the first time, my phone rang. It was Tara.

"Hey boss, I know you're not comfortable leaving the house with the possibility of a remaining reporter hanging around, so I wanted to ask if I could bring the full team over for a meeting here?" Tara asked, her voice a little breathless.

"The full team?" I asked, surprised. "That's... a lot of people."

"It's important," she insisted. "We've got a lot to go over, and it's better if we're all together."

I thought for a moment. "Okay. Give me an hour. I need to do a quick clean-up. Then you can bring everyone over."

"Perfect!" Tara chirped. "See you then!"

I hung up and immediately started a whirlwind cleaning spree, focusing on the main areas of the house. As I tidied, I pulled out my phone and initiated a three-way call.

"Aditi, Dominic, it's me," I said when they both answered. "Listen, I have a food emergency. I need food for about thirty people, total. How soon can you get it to me?"

"Thirty people?" Aditi's voice came through, a hint of surprise. "It'll be an hour and a half, tops, but we'll get it to you as fast as we can. Don't worry about a thing."

"You guys are lifesavers," I said, genuinely relieved. "Thank you so much."

"Anything for you, Deppgrl," Dominic said, and we hung up.

Precisely an hour later, Tara and my entire staff arrived, a veritable army carrying boxes, backpacks, computer bags, and various electronic devices. My jaw dropped.

"Tara, what is all this?" I asked, gesturing at the mountain of gear.

"It's a takeover!" she declared, laughing, a mischievous glint in her eye.

I sighed, feeling a familiar weariness. "Tara, please. Just tell me what's going on."

"Okay, okay," she relented, still grinning. "Since Tomas's arrest, we've had sixty legitimate companies reach out to us. Yvette and I have been vetting them non-stop since day one. We've got a box here with the strongest competitors, and another with the weakest." She paused, her expression turning serious. "Since it's your business and your reputation on the line, you have the final say on who we pursue."

For the second time that day, I facepalmed myself. "Sixty? Tara, you're telling me you've already whittled down sixty potential clients?"

"We've been busy," she said, shrugging. "This is a huge opportunity, boss."

As the staff began to unpack their backpacks and set up their electronics, Tara, Kay, and I went to the basement. We started lugging cases of water bottles up to the main floor, stacking them near the kitchen. Kay then helped Tara take out and organize the files for the companies my staff thought I should pick.

"Where are the middle runners?" I asked, looking at the two distinct piles.

"Oh, I packed those in my bag, just in case," Tara said, patting a large tote bag.

"Good thinking," I said, grateful for her foresight.

We gathered around the dining table, spreading out the files. We went through each of the companies one by one, meticulously writing out a list of pros and cons for each one. After a while, the initial excitement wore off, and the snippiness began to creep in.

Ding-dong!

The doorbell rang, a welcome interruption. I went to the door to find Aditi and Dominic standing there, flanked by some of their staff, all carrying enormous trays of food. Food for at least 100 people.

"We brought reinforcements!" Aditi announced, a wide smile on her face.

"And enough to feed an army, it seems," Dominic added with a chuckle.

They and their staff began bringing in the food, filling my kitchen counters. "Where's your second fridge?" Aditi asked, looking around.

"It's in the basement," I replied, pointing downstairs. Some of my male staff, sensing the need, immediately jumped in to help carry the heavy trays down.

Before Aditi and Dominic—along with their staff—left, I stopped them. "How much do I owe you for all this?"

They looked at each other, then at me, then back at each other, and burst out laughing.

"You don't owe a single thing, Deppgrl," Aditi said, still chuckling.

I hugged them both tightly. "Thank you. Seriously. You guys are the best." They waved goodbye and left.

Back in the kitchen, Tara and Kay were doing their best to keep the hungry staff from digging into the mountain of food before I did. I looked at the spread, then at the limited plates and utensils I owned, and wondered how I was going to feed that many people. Then I noticed the large boxes Aditi and Dominic had left. Disposable plates, plastic ware, cans of soda, and other soft drinks. They were too good to me, I thought to myself, a wave of affection washing over me.

"Alright, everyone, hold on a minute!" Tara called out, just as I grabbed a plate. "Boss lady eats first!"

I dug in, savoring the delicious Italian food but my mouth was watering over the wonderful smell of Aditi’s food. Only after I had taken a generous portion did Kay and Tara give the signal, and the staff descended upon the food like a pack of hungry wolves.

We all ate and eat and ate some more, until we were too stuffed to argue about anything. The snippiness from earlier had completely vanished, replaced by a comfortable, food-induced haze.

"So," I said, leaning back in my chair, "how many potential clients do you think we can realistically bring in?"

Tara, rubbing her full stomach, considered. "Twenty-five, comfortably."

I looked at Kay. "And you?"

"Thirty-five, max, if we really push it," she replied.

"Okay," I said, looking around at my team. "Let's aim for thirty. And we don't need to do it by the end of today. We'll work at a sustainable pace."

"As long as your energy levels stay up, we're going to stay as long as it takes," one of the staff members piped up, and others nodded in agreement.

"Even if I nap?" I asked, a hopeful glint in my eye.

"We'll stay as long as you need us to stay," Tara confirmed, a warm smile on her face.

That was it. That was when I knew. My staff was truly amazing. Kay looked at me with a soft smile, a silent acknowledgment of the incredible team I had.

"Alright, everyone, listen up!" I announced, pushing myself to my feet. "Once we pick out however many clients we pick, and things are on the up and up, you will all get a raise."

A cheer went up. I looked at Tara, who was beaming. "And Tara," I said, meeting her gaze, "you have proved yourself over the last week. You'll get yours as well, as long as there aren't many wolves."

Tara laughed, a genuine, joyful sound. "Oh, I'm leaving the wolves behind, boss. Definitely leaving the wolves behind."

We immediately started digging through the boxes again, the food-induced lethargy replaced by renewed determination. Laughter filled the room as we debated the merits of various companies, the occasional groan escaping someone's lips when a particularly weak contender was presented. There was good-natured bargaining, "No, no, this one has potential if we just..." and tired sighs as the hours stretched on. We worked late into the night, the piles of "yes" and "no" growing steadily. We finally decided on thirty-one companies.

As the staff began to pack their electronics, backpacks, and other belongings, I called out, "Hey everyone, grab some food on your way out! There's plenty to go around!"

A few grateful murmurs and "Thanks, Deppgrl!" echoed as they helped themselves to the take out containers that Aditi and Dominic provided, their faces tired but happy.

Once the last staff member had left, only Kay and Tara remained. "Okay, listen," I said. "Once you've both had at least seven hours of sleep, Tara, I need you to reach out to the thirty-one companies we agreed on. Tell them they're hired and then fax all the required paperwork. Kay, you'll send emails to the others, stating that at this time, we're full, and we hope to add them soon. I can also make personal recommendations of other businesses they might work with until I have the staff."

They both nodded, their eyes heavy but resolute. "Got it, boss," Tara mumbled.

"Consider it done," Kay added.

As Kay and Tara were about to leave, I called out, "Kay?"

She turned her hand on the doorknob. "Yeah?"

"Send them both," I said, a small, knowing smile playing on my lips.

A twinkle appeared in Kay's tired eyes. "They'll be here in about an hour," she replied, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.

"An hour?!" I exclaimed, my eyes widening. My staff had just packed up, but throw blankets were still strewn all over the living room, the garbage and recycling needed to go out, and the bathrooms definitely needed a quick clean. And I still needed to shower! I groaned, already calculating the frantic dash ahead.

Just as I was heading downstairs from my shower, in just an oversized shirt, the doorbell rang. Through the window, I saw the first drops of rain begin to fall, splattering against the glass. I opened the door to find Vince and Randy standing there, a little earlier than Kay had predicted. They looked at me, then at each other, then back at me.

"Where do we start from here?" I asked, looking from one to the other.

Unforseen circumstances

"Vince, I need to make something crystal clear," I said, meeting his gaze directly. "Despite everything I just told you about Tomas, I’ve never been involved in anything criminal. My job, working with someone like Tomas, automatically puts me on a 'check in on them on occasion' list with various agencies, just to ensure I'm always following the law. They know he’s on the straight and narrow and has been since his child was killed."

Vince nodded slowly, his expression grim. "I understand that. But after hearing all this... I can't be here anymore. Not in this building."

My heart sank. "Vince, these tickets were a gift from Tomas, so please use them. I’ll be leaving. Enjoy the show." I paused, the weight of the situation pressing down. "I cannot risk losing Tomas as a client over this. If I do, my career and my reputation are down the drain, and no one will want to hire me, not even a small-town business. My livelihood depends entirely on maintaining that relationship I have with him."

He looked conflicted, then wondered aloud, "Do you think you could turn your relationship with him back to just business instead of personal too?"

"Vince," I said, my voice softening slightly, "I get why you'd feel that way, and I appreciate you being concern about it. But here's the thing: my relationship with Tomas is crucial for my career. He built it."

"Please, just ask him," Vince urged.

Without another word, I pulled out my phone and immediately opened a text message to Tomas. I typed quickly, my fingers flying across the screen:

Hey Tomas, I shared what we agreed on with Vince. Since we both value honesty, I need to admit Vince is concerned about our personal relationship. I understand his perspective. To protect my romantic relationships—with him or anyone else for that matter—I'm wondering if our relationship could just be strictly professional going forward. I understand that by sharing this, you have the right to terminate our contract.

I hit send, the message disappearing into the ether. I looked back at Vince, the tension thick between us. Just then, two imposing figures, clearly Tomas's top security men, approached us from the side aisle.

"Ms. Smith, please come with us," one of them stated, his voice calm but leaving no room for argument.

I turned to Vince, forcing a smile. "Enjoy the concert, Vince. I'll be fine." Deep down, I knew that having security bring Tomas an employee is never a good sign. As I started to walk away, I said, "Don't worry!"

We moved through the bustling crowd, the two security men flanking me, one on each side. Their presence was subtle but undeniable, guiding me through the throngs of concert-goers. The music from the stage faded as we navigated a maze of back corridors and service elevators, eventually arriving at a discreet, unmarked door.

I knocked firmly.

"Come in," Tomas's voice called from inside.

I pushed the door open and stepped into his spacious, dimly lit office suite, leaving the security detail outside. As I walked towards Tomas's large desk, I began to dig into my purse. I pulled out the ID badge he'd given me months ago, a burner phone I knew he'd provided for secure communications in unsecure areas, and anything else I could find that he might have given me over the years, placing them all on his polished desk. I double-checked my purse, making sure I hadn't missed anything, while Tomas watched me with a confused expression.

"Ms. Smith!" Tomas said, his voice cutting through the air, cold and sharp.

I looked up at him, my gaze steady.

"What are you doing?" he asked, his confusion now laced with a hint of irritation.

"Tomas, I've seen you do this many times in the past," I replied, my voice calm despite the churning in my stomach. "This escort up here, the sudden summons... it's your way of saying my contract with you has been terminated. I'm just getting ready. I assume I'll have to sign a bazillion NDAs that last for a long time, hand in every single piece of paper with your name on it, and I can't go anywhere you own."

He let out a short, sharp laugh, a sound devoid of humor. "That is not why I brought you up to my office, Ms. Smith."

"Then why did your thugs bring me up here?" I shot back, my patience wearing thin.

He laughed again, a more genuine, amused sound this time. "My men brought you up here because I needed to get Vince's attention. He seems like a good man, and I wanted him to see that you're important to me, that you're well-connected and protected. I wanted him to understand the kind of woman he's with, and that you deserve to be treated with the utmost respect."

Tomas's expression turned serious. "You know, you're risking what you have with Vince, and with Randy for that matter, by even sending me that text."

I rolled my eyes. "Oh, you know about Randy too? Of course you and your security have checked him out."

"Naturally," Tomas said, a hint of a smirk. "Now, about your question. Can our relationship go back to being strictly professional? On paper, it will be. But there will be times, Ms. Smith, when I will need our relationship to be personal. You understand."

I sighed, knowing this was the best I was going to get. "Okay," I conceded. "Can I go back down to Vince now? Unescorted?"

Tomas chuckled, a low, rumbling sound. "Yes, you may. Go enjoy the rest of your evening."

I hurried back through the labyrinth of corridors, the thumping bass of the concert growing louder with each step. When I finally emerged into the arena, the main act was already well underway. I was twenty minutes late. Vince spotted me immediately, his uneasy expression melting into relief as I approached. He stood up and pulled me into a bear hug so tight I couldn't breathe. For a few seconds, the roar of the music and the singer's voice seemed to cut out, leaving a strange, muffled silence.

"Everything worked out well," I whispered into his ear during the brief lull, squeezing him back; I knew that brief silence was the work of Tomas

"Thank God," he murmured, releasing me as the sound swelled back around us.

The music and singing resumed, but trying to fully immerse ourselves in the concert was difficult. My mind kept replaying the conversation with Tomas. When I went to purchase drinks and food for us, a staff member quickly appeared, informing me that everything had already been taken care of and was being brought directly to our seats. I knew exactly who was behind that.

I pulled out my phone and quickly texted Tomas: Let me get out of this chair for a bit. Need to use the restroom.

A single word flashed back: Ok. It was terse, but I knew it meant he was acknowledging my need for a moment of normalcy, a brief escape from his pervasive influence.

After the Show

At the end of the concert, most of the attendees streamed out, but Vince and I lingered in our seats. Soon, the same two "thugs" who had brought me up to Tomas's office appeared.

"Mr. Diaz, Ms. Smith, if you'll follow us," one of them said, gesturing towards a backstage door.

Vince looked at me, a bewildered grin on his face. "What now?"

"Just go with it," I whispered, pulling him along.

They led us through another series of backstage hallways, finally opening a door into a brightly lit lounge where Bruno Mars and The Weeknd were relaxing, surrounded by their entourage. We spent a good ten minutes chatting with them, exchanging pleasantries and compliments on the show. Vince was practically glowing.

As we were about to leave, both Bruno Mars and The Weeknd presented us with several large bags of merchandise—t-shirts, hoodies, signed posters, even some limited-edition vinyl.

"Wow, this is incredible!" Vince exclaimed, his eyes wide as he looked through a bag. "I can't believe they're just giving this to us. It's insane and unexpected!"

"It's amazing, isn't it?" I agreed, picking up a signed poster.

I reached for my purse to pay, but they waved me off.

"Oh, no, please," Bruno Mars said with a warm smile. "It's a gift from us. Consider it a thank you for being such great fans tonight."

"Yeah, enjoy the swag," The Weeknd added, nodding.

I knew, deep down, it was a gift from Tomas, a final, extravagant gesture of his influence. But I would never tell Vince that. "Thank you so much," I said, genuinely touched by the gesture, regardless of its true origin. "This is truly generous."

Vince and I headed to the car, the bags of merch rustling as we settled into the back seat.

"Can you believe this night?" Vince said, still buzzing. "Front row, backstage, meeting them... this is insane, weird and unexpected!"

"It was quite the night," I agreed, already feeling the exhaustion creeping in. "A lot to process."

The drive back to my place was only about fifteen minutes, but I was out cold almost immediately. Once or twice, I was vaguely aware of being woken, hearing Vince's hushed voice tell the driver, "Keep driving, she needs the sleep. When we get to her place, I will pay you the extra money that you deserve."

I woke up properly as the car pulled into my driveway. I helped Vince grab the bags of merch, and we headed inside.

"I'm going to go up and shower then head to bed," Vince said, heading towards the stairs. “Don’t stay up too late, love.”

Once he was upstairs, I began to meticulously scan every piece of merch, running my hands over the materials, checking seams, looking for anything out of place. Nothing. But the sheer value—at least $5,000 worth—set off alarms. I pulled out my personal phone and called Darnell.

"Hey, Darnell. I know it's late, but I need your expertise," I said, my voice low. "Tomas just gifted Vince and me a ton of merch from the concert, probably five grand worth. It feels... too easy. Can you come over and scan it for anything?"

"Five grand, huh?" Darnell's voice was already alert. "Alright, I'll borrow some equipment from work and head right over. Be there in about thirty-five minutes."

Darnell arrived thirty minutes later, carrying a nondescript bag. He quickly set up a portable scanner and began running it over the merch, piece by piece. Everything came up clean.

"Looks like the merch is clear," he confirmed, packing up his gear.

"Good," I said, relieved, then hesitated. "Darnell, while you're here, can you check something else for me? The ID badge Tomas gave me, and the burner phone he provided months ago."

Darnell looked at me, a knowing glint in his eye. "You suspect something?"

"I question everything," I replied, handing him the items.

He ran the scanner over the ID badge first, then the burner phone. A small beep. He frowned, then used a specialized tool to carefully pry open a tiny section of each. "Well, well, well," he murmured, pointing to a minuscule, almost invisible chip embedded in both. "Looks like our friend Tomas likes to keep tabs." He expertly removed both chips and, without a word, crushed them under his boot heel.

"That's going to piss him off," I said, a grim satisfaction spreading through me. "But I don't care anymore."

Just as I finished speaking, my main phone rang. It was Tomas. I answered, bracing myself.

"You absolute imbecile!" Tomas roared, his voice absolutely livid, echoing through the phone. "What in God's name did you do?!"

"I lost my trust in you, Tomas," I said, my voice calm, almost detached. "When you had your thugs bring me into your office, that was it. That was the moment that I knew."

"How did you know?!" he demanded, his fury palpable. "How did you know to check everything?"

"I question everything, Tomas," I stated simply. "Always have. Always will." I took a deep breath, steeling myself. "By mid-morning, Tomas, I will be terminating my contract with you. This will keep my business and my reputation intact."

Tomas scoffed. "You think you can just walk away? You think you can—"

"Goodbye, Tomas," I interrupted, and before he could utter another word, I hung up. Immediately, I blocked his number from contacting me again.

Darnell watched me, his expression unreadable. "You just poked the bear, didn't you?"

"He's about to find out what happens when the bear pokes back," I said, a cold resolve in my voice. "You got that other thing ready?"

Darnell grinned. "Oh, it's ready. Just waiting for my friends in the news business to wake up. Within a few hours, by daybreak, Tomas will be arrested again for failure to report any major income or large purchases - the government didn't know about his yacht."

Darnell left about twenty minutes later, a silent shadow disappearing into the pre-dawn light. I took a quick shower, the warm water washing away the tension, then slipped into bed beside Vince. He stirred, instinctively pulling me into his chest, and I fell asleep almost instantly, wrapped in his comforting embrace.

Just after the first news reports hit the TV, the radio, streaming services, and newspapers, our phones began to buzz with notifications, waking us up. I took Tara's call a few minutes after waking up, the sunlight just beginning to stream through the blinds.

"You're not going to believe this," Tara's voice was a mix of shock and exhilaration. "Tomas was arrested! All of his properties, vehicles—including his yacht—and his bank accounts have been seized. The news is reporting that due to your ending the contract with him, more legitimate companies are vying to work with us than we can handle!"

"Thank you, Tara," I said, a wave of relief washing over me. "Listen, I need you to take everything off the website that has anything to do with Tomas. Send every file and piece of paper with his name on it, and the names of all his companies, directly to law enforcement. And yes, take as many of these legitimate companies as we can. We're going to be busy."

I hung up and turned to Vince, who was slowly blinking awake, his phone already vibrating on the nightstand. "What's going on?" he mumbled, rubbing his eyes.

"Vince," I said, my voice softer than I intended, "I wasn't fully truthful with you about Tomas and his business. I've actually been working with various law enforcement agencies, feeding them everything I could on him."

His eyes widened, then narrowed. "You... what?"

"Tara and my entire staff were, too," I continued, "as were many other companies that worked with Tomas. He's going back to prison."

Vince just stared at me, then shook his head. "I don't want to know. Honestly, just... I don't want to know."

"It's better that you don't," I agreed, reaching for his hand. "Look, the local news channels are on their way here now. You shouldn't be here when they arrive."

He nodded, already scrambling out of bed. "Right. Okay. I'll update Randy."

"Thank you," I said, watching him quickly gather his things. "Be safe."