Theo attempts to keep a straight face as he passes the envelope to me, but I see the smug bastard’s lips tugging upward.
I love you, Felix. I don’t care how many years pass. You’re mine and I will always be yours. You belong to me for life.
My heartbeat thunders in my ears as I read Harper’s letter ten times over. Her words aren’t anything new.Only this time, knowing Tyler is gone, the temptation of Harper feels impossible to resist.
Forcing myself to be firm, I tuck the letter into my pocket and give Theo an order, knowing he’ll be at the engagement party. “Donotlet me be alone with Harper this weekend. I swear to god. Don’t let me anywhere near her.”
CHAPTER THREE
FELIX
This fucking beach house. I’m hit with a bunch of memories as I drive through the wrought iron gates late Friday evening, which is why I avoid visiting this place.
Whenever I’m here, all I can think about is my childhood. Of vacationing here with Harper, her parents, and my brothers. Card games in the library with Harper and Tyler. Late nights watching movies and falling asleep with her in our arms. Tyler and I chasing Harper through the abandoned hedge maze, taking turns winning atcatch and kiss.
I remember the first time my lips landed on hers. We were young. It was nothing more than a peck, so innocent I’d barely classify it as a kiss. The day was cold but I was so fucking hot on the inside and knew that whatever this feeling was that Harper brought out in me, I liked it.
I liked watching Tyler kiss her too.
This beach house is where Harper and I later shared our first proper kiss. It’s where we first had sex. The three of us were so happy here.
But there are just as many bad memories associated with this beach house. Harper’s mother’s death. Me being taken away to Westbridge without a chance to say goodbye to Harper. The breakup.
The house comes into view through tall trees as my Chrysler creeps up the driveway, a sophisticated Hamptons mansion. White exterior, large porches, window shutters.
The lights are off, which is one less stress, delaying family interactions till tomorrow. I don’t know if Tyler is here yet. Harper will probably arrive in the morning to help prepare for the engagement party with the other bridesmaids.
I park the car and quietly enter the house. Before I can place my bags on the floor and turn a light on, soft footsteps run through the house accompanied by feminine laughter. Movement catches my attention on the far side of the entry hall. Two silhouettes. My vision adjusts to the sight of Dan catching Ally and pressing her against the wall with kisses.
She’s only wearing a bra and panties. He’s stripped down to briefs. Moonlight streams through a window, glistening on their wet skin and hair. By the look of it, they’ve been for an impromptu night swim.
“I want you naked in bed,” Dan says before I have an opportunity to announce myself.
“Come and get me,” she teases.
Dan smiles, watching Ally run up the grand staircase.
Jesus fucking Christ. To be that happy and in love.
Dan and Ally are perfect for each other, always bringing out the best in each other. Growing up, Danbasked in the attention the Blackwood name brought him, always partying and fucking around with countless girls. I didn’t think he had it in him to genuinely care about a girl, until he met our stepsister.
Even though their feelings for each other remained hidden for years, he was always putting her needs before his own. When Ally first joined our family, she was shy and timid due to a traumatic upbringing. She didn’t have friends. But Dan made her flourish—I’vealwaysknown that much, even when I was unaware of their relationship. He’s always supported her. Always pushed her to fight for what she wants.
For the past eight years, Dan is the brother I’ve been closest with. During these last two years—since he’s gone public with Ally—he’s become increasingly difficult to be around, which is more of a reflection of my own issues.
Every time I see them together, it reminds me of what I used to have with Harper: that one person who understands you like no one else, who you can be truly vulnerable with and show them the barest parts of your soul.
I’ve never come close to finding that with anyone other than Harper.
I’ve neverwantedto find that connection with anyone else.
Ally disappears into a bedroom upstairs. A moment later, Dan is chasing her.
“Bro.” I flick on a light switch.
Dan peers back as he reaches the top of the stairs, finding me by the front door. He glances inAlly’s direction, wanting to follow her, but groans and walks back down to me. “Showing up just in time to cock block me.”
“Oh, please. Like you weren’t just fucking her in the pool.”
