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“That isn’t fair to you. We don’t know each other, at least not really…but I promise you that kind of mindset will only end in misery.” And as the words leave my lips Kale and Orzo’s faces flash behind my eyes again.

I haven’t been fair either. Chasing lust without accepting the love.

Acknowledging the feelings that are just beneath the surface.

With Kale they are budding, a warmth spilling into my stomach but with Orzo?

It’s too late.

Crow’s feet form as Reuben offers a genuine smile. “We may not know all the caveats, but we understand each other.” He bends down, pressing his forehead to mine, his eyes closing.

He breathes in and out a few times.

“Thank you,” he murmurs gently.

“For what?” I whisper.

Our breaths intermingle.

He inhales my words.

He exhales his own. “Reminding me what it’s like to not be alone.”

We share the relief in our lungs.

The crack in my chest widens.

It’s too much all at once.

After years alone, I couldn’t possibly allow three men into my life.

Would they even allow it?

After all Reuben sent me to kill Kale…

How do they know each other?

“I’m tired.” I step away from him.

And I think he understands and accepts that, because he doesn’t frown, instead there is still the same lighthearted smile gracing his lips. “Sure, I can take the couch.”

“No, we can share, it’s fine. If you try to hurt me, my bad luck will smite and kill you.”

He laughs, but I don’t mean it as a joke.

***

“Round up the fucking troops! We need to go out now!” Orzo’s anger is what draws me awake.

I shoot up, but I am in an unfamiliar place, my senses are lapping one on top of the other and it takes time for my brain to process how I ended up here.

In this opulent space with velvet curtains and a four-poster bed. With strong vanilla woodsy scents wrapping all around me.

Kicking off the lush duvet cover, I sit up and attempt to gain my bearings.

Why is Orzo here?

“I can’t leave.” Comes through the open door.