Chapter 39
Theo and Daphne's spacious bathroom buzzed with laughter and chatter as the five girls crowded around the large vanity mirror, a mix of makeup, curling irons, and accessories scattered across the counter. Wendy, leaning against the wall, sipped her soda while observing the others with an amused grin. She had let Lily do her make up and Daphne demanded she be incharge of Wendy's hair.
"Hurry up, Evie!" Ava teased, playfully tugging at Evie's loose curls. "You've been fixing your lip gloss for the last ten minutes."
Evie laughed, rolling her eyes. "Perfection takes time, Ava." She dabbed on a final coat of lip gloss before turning to Lily. "Okay, let's see those earrings."
Lily twirled a strand of her hair, her eyes brightening as she fastened the gold drop earrings Daphne had handed her. "What do you think?"
Daphne, who had been inspecting her own eyeshadow in a handheld mirror, glanced over and smiled. "Gorgeous. They really pull the whole look together."
"Definitely," Wendy agreed, reaching over to fix a loose curl in Lily's hair. "You're going to turn heads."
"Ugh, I want to be a college girl again," Daphne groaned dramatically, flopping down on the ottoman with a pout. "I swear I'd make better fashion choices this time."
Lily laughed, tossing a throw pillow at her. "You say that now, but I bet you were the hottest girl on campus."
"I wasn't even on the hot rader until Junior year," Daphne shook her head. "The outfit and hair regrets haunt me."
Lily smiled at Daphne. "You're not missing out on much."
"No?" Evie teased. "Not even on the cute college boys?"
"They're idiots," Lily groaned. "I hate them."
"You hate one of them," Wendy corrected her.
Evie gasped and whirled around, her eyes shimmering with excitement. "Excuse me? There's a specific one?"
"No," Lily laughed. "No, no. Let's not get this twisted. Gabriel is not a specific one."
"Oh, him," Daphne grimaced. "Yeah, that's a bad apple. Theo will shoot him."
Lily groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Why are we even talking about this?"
Evie nudged her playfully. "Because we care. Now spill."
Wendy leaned closer, eyes mischievous. "Yeah, Lily. Spill the details, angel."
"He calls you angel!" Evie gasped, her eyes widening even further. "Lily Silvano, who is this guy and why haven't you told me about him yet?"
Lily peeked through her fingers, cheeks flushed. "You're all terrible."
The girls erupted into laughter again.
"There is absolutely nothing to share," Lily said, lowering her hand and tucking her hair back. "Gabriel is a pain my ass and for some reason he is convinced he can get me to sleep with him."
"Ew, noâwait, what?" Evie paused, her expression shifting from excitement to confusion.
"Yeah, exactly," Lily huffed, crossing her arms. "So let's just drop it. Gabriel can try all he wants, but I will never, ever, ever give him the time of day."
Wendy exchanged a glance with Daphne, a knowing smile playing at her lips.
"We'll see about that," she whispered, just loud enough for the room to hear.
Lily threw a make up sponge across the room. "You're all impossible! I am not going to sleep with Gabriel Reyes."
Suddenly, a firm knock echoed from the bedroom door, followed by Theo's deep, familiar voice. "Babe?"
Lily's eyes widened in panic. She whispered urgently, "Oh, shit. Do you think he heard us?"
Daphne leaned in close, smirking. "We're about to find out." She rose gracefully from the ottoman, her movements fluid and confident. The gold mini dress she wore shimmered under the soft lights, catching every curve and contour as she glided toward the door. Her toned legs, perfectly tanned, carried her with an effortless elegance, each step a silent promise of allure.
As she reached the door and pulled it open, Theo's eyes widened in astonished admiration. The dress hugged her figure, its silky fabric gleaming against her sun-kissed skin. Voluminous curls framed her face, cascading down to brush her shoulders, and the soft, glossy sheen on her lips added a tempting glow. She looked ethereal, an enchanting vision of beauty.
"Wow," Theo breathed, his voice a low rumble as his gaze traveled up from her legs to the playful neckline, lingering a moment too long. His eyes held a heat that made the room feel suddenly smaller.
Daphne arched an eyebrow, stepping back with a playful twirl that sent the gold fabric fluttering around her thighs. "What do you think?" she teased, a coy smile tugging at her lips.
Theo chuckled, momentarily speechless as he stepped into the room, his eyes never leaving her. His hand found the small of her back, pulling her just a bit closer. "It's a..." he trailed off, searching for the right word, his eyes darkening with appreciation. "It's a little short."
Daphne gasped softly as his hand slid lower, fingers brushing over the curve of her hip and slipping beneath the hem of her dress. Her breath hitched as his touch traced a slow, tantalizing path up the inside of her thigh. Sparks shot up her spine, a rush of warmth spreading through her, leaving her heart pounding.
Theo's lips brushed against her ear, his voice a seductive murmur. "But I like it," he whispered, his smile sending a shiver down her back
"Our bathroom is full of people," Daphne reminded him, her voice soft yet playful. She placed a hand on his chest, gently pushing him back. "Hands to yourself, please."
Theo laughed quietly, the deep, warm sound sending a shiver through the air. He stepped back, but his eyes never left her, a spark of admiration and something more lingering there. He licked his lower lip absently, the intensity in his gaze undeniable.
"What?" Daphne asked, arching an eyebrow, a small smile playing at her lips as she noticed his lingering stare.
"The earrings don't match the bracelet," Theo pointed out, his finger brushing lightly against the diamond bracelet adorning her wrist. The bracelet shimmered under the light, a gift he had hand picked for her.
Daphne's hand instinctively went up to her earrings, a confused look crossing her face. "What do you mean?"
Theo's lips curled into a knowing smile. He reached into his pocket, pulling out a small, velvet blue box. The room seemed to pause for a moment, the air thick with anticipation as he opened it, revealing a pair of exquisite diamond earrings that mirrored the delicate brilliance of her bracelet.
"Are you kidding me?" Daphne's eyes widened, her breath catching as she took in the sparkling jewels. "Theodore!"
He grinned, the corners of his eyes crinkling with warmth. "I did say I'd buy you something shiny for finishing the sundae."
Daphne's eyes shimmered, torn between laughter and disbelief. She reached out, her fingers tracing the edges of the box. "You're ridiculous," she whispered, but her smile betrayed the emotion bubbling beneath the surface.
Theo leaned in, his voice a soft murmur. "Do you like it?"
"Of course," Daphne nodded.
"Wear them tonight," Theo said.
"I'll be right back," Daphne said with glee as she took the earrings and rushed into the bathroom.
Theo watched her go before realizing Ava was hovering by the entrance. She caught his gaze and smiled. Theo could hear his sister and Daphne gushing over the earrings inside the bathroom. He turned to leave, wanting to avoid Ava when she stopped him by speaking up.
"You're different with her." Her tone was soft, almost casual, but a hint of tension lay beneath the words.
Theo's back stiffened slightly. He turned to face her, his expression unreadable. "What do you mean?"
Ava's eyes searched his face, something sharp and vulnerable in her gaze. "I've never seen you like this before. Not with me."
For a moment, silence stretched. Theo's jaw tightened, a flicker understanding flashing across his face.
"People change," he said finally, his voice low, almost distant.
"I guess they do," Ava shrugged.
Theo did not reply as he backed out of the room, leaving Ava still hovering by the bathroom. A few seconds later, Daphne stepped out of the bathroom, the new diamond earrings sparkling, catching the light with every movement. She pushed her hair behind her ears and scanned the room, eyes searching for Theo, eager to show him the dazzling addition.
But the room was emptier than she'd expected. Theo was gone. Her smile faltered, the joyful anticipation fading slightly as she spotted Ava standing by the door, arms crossed, a careful expression on her face.
Daphne's voice was soft but curious. "Where did Theo go?"
Ava's eyes flickered, her lips curving into a polite smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "He went back down." She tilted her head, pretending to admire the earrings. "You look beautiful. You two are... so cute together."
Something in Ava's tone made Daphne pause. The words were right, but the warmth was missing. Daphne felt itâthe quiet tension beneath the surface. She studied Ava for a moment, the air between them thick.
"Thank you," Daphne replied, her voice measured, careful. She tucked a curl behind her ear, her eyes never leaving Ava's.
Ava's smile wavered, her gaze shifting slightly, unable to hold Daphne's for long. "I'm happy for you. Really." But the words were thin, almost hollow, like an old script she'd memorized but didn't believe anymore.
Daphne nodded slowly, her intuition sharp. She didn't press further, but the unease lingered, settling like a shadow between them.
"He was the same way when we first started dating," Ava said with a casual shrug. "The lavish gifts, the flowers, the kisses. He was obsessed.... Just like he is now."
Daphne's brows lifted slightly, but she didn't respond immediately. She felt the weight of Ava's words, each one laced with an intent she could see right through. "Really?" Daphne's voice was calm, her eyes steady as she studied Ava.
Ava nodded, her expression softening into something almost pitying. "Theo gets... intense. For a while." She paused, letting the words hang between them. "But it fades. It always does." Her eyes searched Daphne's face, waiting for a reaction, any crack in her composure.
Daphne's lips twitched into a smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. "Good to know," she said, her tone even. "I'll keep that in mind."
Ava's smile faltered, just for a second, before she recovered. "I'm just looking out for you," she continued, her voice syrupy sweet. "I wouldn't want you to get hurt."
Daphne's gaze didn't waver. "That's thoughtful of you, Ava," she replied, her voice soft but unyielding. "But I think I can handle Theodore." Her eyes narrowed slightly, the confidence in her words cutting through Ava's thinly veiled attempt.
"He doesn't like being called that," Ava said.
"No, he doesn't," Daphne smiled. "He loves being called that. Especially when we're......"
Daphne laughed as if she was accidentally spilling too much personal information.
Ava's mouth opened as if to say something more, but she closed it, the tension between them thickening.
Letting the girl stew in her jealousy, Daphne turned slightly, her focus drifting back to the mirror.
"I should go find him," she said, a hint of finality in her tone. She adjusted the earring, the diamonds catching the light once more. "Thanks for the chat, Ava."
As Daphne walked past, Ava's eyes followed her, the mask of polite civility slipping just a bit.
___________________________
Mason
"No!"
Wendy froze, her hand hovering over the car door handle as Lily's voice rang out from the entrance of the cabin. She turned, eyebrows raised, watching Lily descend the wooden steps hurriedly, the heels of her shoes clicking against the wood. The cool evening breeze swirled around them, carrying the scent of pine and the distant crackle of someone's bonfire. Lily moved carefully, one hand gripping the railing as she tried not to slip on the uneven stone path leading to the car.
"You take the front seat," Lily insisted as she reached the car, her breath a little short but her tone firm. She placed a hand on Wendy's shoulder, gently steering her toward the passenger side. "I'll sit in the back."
Wendy tilted her head, a smirk forming as she crossed her arms. "Really? You're not even trying to be subtle, are you?" she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Lily straightened, a playful defiance in her eyes. "I have long legs," she declared, flipping her hair over one shoulder. "I need the space in the back."
Wendy rolled her eyes, laughter bubbling up. "You think I don't know what you're doing?" she said, her voice dripping with mock disbelief.
"I have no idea what you're talking about," Lily replied, the innocence in her tone almost convincing. Her gaze flicked toward Mason, who was strolling down the path, keys dangling from his hand, a lazy grin on his face. "I just thought you'd be more comfortable up here."
Wendy chuckled, finally relenting as she opened the passenger door and slipped inside. She buckled her seatbelt and shook her head. "Sure, sure. Next time, try being a little less obvious about setting me up with your brother."
Mason paused at the front of the car, his eyes darting between Wendy and Lily. His grin widened, curiosity evident. "Should I be concerned about this conspiracy?" he asked, his tone light and teasing.
Lily groaned, rolling her eyes dramatically as she slid into the backseat. "Just drive, Mason. Where's Levi?"
Mason sighed, his hands gripping the steering wheel. "He's not coming."
"What? Why?" Wendy's brow furrowed, her voice tinged with surprise.
Mason chuckled, glancing at her. "Well, don't act too disappointed. You'll make me jealous."
Wendy snorted.
"It's not a big deal," Lily interjected, waving her hand dismissively. She leaned back against the seat, staring out the window. "Levi isn't really a fan of clubs anyway. He's fine lurking at home on his own."
Wendy glanced out, noticing Evie climbing into Ava and James's car across the driveway. "Is Harry not going either?" she asked.
Mason started the engine, his fingers drumming on the wheel. "He's meeting us there. He's on a work call to London right now."
"Okay, okay, forget about Harry," Lily rushed. "Let's go! Let's go."
"Okay, damn woman," Mason's eyes flickered back to her. "Put your seatbelt on."
"I'm not a ki-" Lily yelped as Mason took his feet off the breaks and the car jerked forward, throwing her back against the seat.
"Yeah, thought so," he said. "Put your seatbelt on or I'll break check you again."
Lily muttered under her breath but did as she was told. Mason waited for her before following Theo's car out of the drive way.
The road into downtown Aspen glowed with streetlights and the warm, golden reflections of shops and restaurants. The snow-dusted mountains framed the town, their jagged silhouettes softened by the evening haze. The three cars cruised down the main road, the hum of Mason's car blending with the faint music from the radio.
Lily sat in the backseat, her phone screen illuminating her face as she scrolled through messages, the occasional tap of her nails on the screen filling the silence. She seemed lost in her own world, oblivious to the glances exchanged between Mason and Wendy in the front.
Mason's fingers tapped rhythmically on the steering wheel, his eyes flicking to Wendy every few moments. The soft glow from passing streetlights highlighted her profileâher hair cascading over her shoulders, the curve of her cheek, the elegant line of her neck. The black dress she wore hugged her frame perfectly, the fabric shimmering subtly each time she shifted.
He caught her eye as she turned to ask him something, the words falling away when she noticed his gaze lingering a second too long. Wendy rolled her eyes, but a small, knowing smile playing at her lips. She looked out the window, her fingers fiddling with the edge of her dress.
Mason swallowed, forcing his eyes back to the road, but his thoughts raced.
She looks... stunning. Every flicker of her expression seemed magnified, every laugh or glance a distraction he couldn't ignore.
The silence stretched between them, until Wendy broke it.
"How far are we?" she asked, her voice light, almost casual.
"Almost there," Mason replied, his voice lower than usual. He shifted in his seat, gripping the wheel a little tighter. "Parking might be a nightmare, though."
Wendy hummed, "Typical downtown."
Their eyes met again, and this time, neither of them looked away immediately. From the backseat, Lily glanced up, raising an eyebrow as she caught the tension. She smirked, returning to her phone.
Mission accomplished, she thought to herself.
_____________________
Theo
The club pulsed with energy, the bass reverberating through the walls and floors. Blue and multicolored lights flashed in sync with the music, creating an electric atmosphere. The private booth offered a small escape from the chaos, nestled in a dim corner with plush seating and a perfect view of the dancefloor.
Laughter and chatter filled the booth as Mason leaned back, arms stretched along the back of the seat, his eyes watching Wendy on the dancefloor. Across from him, Theo stood, holding Daphne's drink as she struggled with the straps of her heels.
"No drinks for those two," Theo said firmly, motioning toward Wendy and Lily.
Daphne looked up. "No, of course not," she replied, still struggling. "Thank you, baby."
Theo smirked, pressing a light kiss to her temple. "And not too many for you either," he added, his voice teasing but protective.
"You're never any fun," Evie complained, rolling her eyes as she took her drink from his hand. Her voice held a playful lilt, but her grin betrayed her affection.
Out on the dancefloor, Wendy and Lily were swept up in the rhythm. The music thumped around them, a mix of beats and melodies that made it impossible to stand still. Wendy's black dress caught the light, shimmering as she moved, while Lily's laughter echoed through the pounding music. They twirled and swayed, lost in the moment.
Back in the booth, Mason couldn't take his eyes off Wendy. She looked radiant, her smile wide and genuine. Theo nudged him, raising an eyebrow.
"You okay?" he asked, amusement in his voice.
Mason shook his head, tearing his gaze away. "Yeah... just keeping an eye on them."
Theo chuckled, clinking his glass against Mason's. "Sure you are."
Beside the brother's Daphne groaned and sighed exasperately. She sat up and flipped her hair off her shoulder with a deep scowle on her face. Theo laughed as he sat his drink down and moved to the edge of the seat.
"Come here, princess," he teased, his voice dripping with warmth. Without waiting, he gently took her ankle and placed it on his lap.
As Theo's fingers expertly fastened the strap of her heel, Daphne couldn't help but watch him. The way he focused on something so simple, as if this moment were the most important in the world, made her heart swell. His touch was firm yet tender, sending a shiver up her spine. And his confidence never failed to make her belly clench.
Daphne marveled at himâthe man who effortlessly read her moods, who could turn an exasperated sigh into a quiet moment of intimacy.
How did I get so lucky? she wondered, feeling an unexpected warmth bloom in her chest. Her eyes softened, lingering on his strong hands as they adjusted the strap, then on the subtle curve of his smile as he finished.
Theo looked up, catching her gaze. "All set," he murmured, his thumb brushing her ankle in a way that felt far more intimate than it should.
Daphne's breath caught. In that crowded nightclub, with the thumping bass vibrating the floor beneath them, it felt like they were the only two people in the world. She barely had time to process the lingering warmth of Theo's touch when Lily appeared, breathless and glowing under the pulsating lights.
"Daphne!" she called, her eyes alight with excitement. "Come dance!"
Daphne hesitated, glancing back at Theo, who gave her a subtle, knowing smile. Before she could say anything, Lily grabbed her hand and pulled her to her feet. Laughter bubbled up from her chest as she stumbled forward, her hesitation dissolving. Wendy's cheers echoed above the music as she followed, and Evie quickly set her drink down, her eyes sparkling with anticipation as she dashed to join them.
The dance floor was a swirling sea of light and sound, bodies moving to the pounding bass. Daphne found herself in the center of it all, surrounded by the girls. Wendy moved her hips, her movements carefree and wild, while Lily laughed, her hands in the air, feet moving to the rhythm, lost in the beat. Evie danced beside them, her movements effortless, her smile bright and genuine.
The four of them moved together, forming a tight circle and refusing to let anyone get in between. Daphne's heart raced, not just from the beat but from the sheer joy of the moment. Wendy grabbed her hands, spinning her around as they both laughed, their laughter a melody of its own. Lily and Evie joined in, their arms linked, and bodies bumping with one another.
As the music pulsed around them and Daphne lowered her arms to look over her shoulder, her laughter faded in an instant. Through the gaps of bodies and in between the flashing lights, she caught sight of their booth. Her breath hitched, and the warmth of the dance floor seemed to drain away.
Ava was leaning over Theo, her body too close for Daphne's comfort. One hand rested lightly on his leg as she giggled, batting her lashes like she'd had one drink too many. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulder, falling dangerously close to Theo's face as she leaned in to whisper something. The soft curve of her smile was calculated, each gesture deliberate.
Theo, with his usual cool demeanor, sat back, his expression unreadable. But Daphne could see the tension in his jaw, the flicker of annoyance beneath the surface. Still, Ava's presence was a storm cloud over the night, casting a shadow that seemed to stretch across the dance floor and settle heavily on Daphne's chest.
Her heart twisted as jealousy flaredâa sharp, unexpected pang that tightened her grip on Wendy's hand. The music around her felt distant now, drowned out by the rush of blood in her ears.
Daphne's mind raced, trying to suppress the surge of insecurity. Seeing Ava, the perfect storm of beauty and familiarity, hovering so close made her stomach turn.
The other girls noticed the change. Lily leaned in, concern flashing in her eyes. "Daph? What's wrong?"
Daphne forced a smile, shaking her head. "Nothing. Just... too warm in here."
But as she glanced back toward the booth, her gaze locked on Theo's. He was already looking at her, eyes searching hers across the crowded room, as if he could feel her jealousy from that distance. His expression softened, a silent promise in his eyes.
Theo's eyes never left Daphne, even as Ava leaned in closer. The dim light of the nightclub softened the sharp angles of his face, but the tension in his jaw was unmistakable. Ava's perfume was overpowering, mixing with the scent of spilled drinks and sweat, but nothing was as intense as the feeling of Daphne's eyes on himâheavy, piercing, and full of unspoken questions.
"Did you change your cologne?" Ava purred, her voice laced with flirtation as she tilted her head, attempting to meet his gaze. The drunken gleam in her eyes was hard to miss.
"No," Theo replied dryly, his tone sharp as his eyes stayed fixed on Daphne. His patience was fraying. "Ava, can you please move back?"
"Why?" She giggled, her hand sliding up his thigh, fingers lingering longer than necessary. "It's not like I haven't touched you like this before."
Theo's muscles tensed. Where the fuck is James? he thought, scanning the crowd. He clenched his jaw, shifting uncomfortably. The air felt suffocating, the heat of Daphne's glare cutting through the haze of the club.
Ava tried to move even closer, but Theo's hand shot out, firm and decisive. He grabbed her wrist, gently but firmly removing it from his thigh. His voice dropped, cold and final. "Stop."
The laughter faded from Ava's lips, replaced by a pout. "Theoâ"
"Enough." His eyes darkened as he turned his attention fully to her for the first time. "Go find James. Now."
He didn't wait to see if she listened. His gaze returned to the dance floor, locking onto Daphne's. Even from across the room, he could see the hurt flickering in her eyes. He wanted nothing more than to cross the room, pull her close, and erase whatever thoughts her mind was forming.
Theo rose from the booth without hesitation his eyes locked on Daphne like a magnet drawn to steel. The pulsating bass seemed to sync with his heartbeat as he navigated the crowded dance floor, each step purposeful, each movement cutting through the sea of bodies.
Seeing him approaching, Daphne turned away, twirling in time with the music and laughing with Evie, but Theo could see the tension in her shoulders. Her eyes avoided his approach, stubbornly fixed on Wendy and Lily, her smile tight, the hurt beneath it barely concealed.
Theo didn't stop. When he reached her, he slipped between her and the others, his hand finding her waist and gently but firmly pulling her toward him.
"Theodoreâ" she started, trying to turn away, but he cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing across her jawline, tilting her face up to meet his eyes.
"Baby," he murmured, his voice low, intense, barely audible over the music. For a moment, they stood there, the crowd moving around them, the world fading into a blur of light and sound.
Then, without another word, he closed the distance, capturing her lips in a deep, possessive kiss. The air around them crackled with electricity as he pulled her tight against him, his arms encircling her waist, leaving no space between them.
The music thumped, the lights flashed, but all Daphne could feel was Theoâhis warmth, his strength, the undeniable sincerity in the way he held her. Her hands found his chest, her initial resistance melting away as she leaned into him, the hurt and doubt evaporating like mist in the sun.
When he finally pulled back, his forehead rested against hers, his eyes searching hers with an intensity that made her breath catch.
"It's only you," he whispered, his voice firm, raw. "Always you."
"I'm going to snap her fingers in half," Daphne threatened. "Why didn't you push her away sooner?"
Theo's lips twitched with a hint of amusement as he watched the fire in Daphne's eyes. Her brows were furrowed, and her lips pressed into a tight line, arms crossed defiantly over her chest. Even in the flashing lights, he could see the storm brewing behind her gaze.
"I'm serious, Theo," she grumbled, eyes narrowing. "She was all over you. Touching you likeâ"
"Like I wasn't sitting there thinking about fucking you in this dress?" he interrupted, his voice low and smooth, laced with that teasing edge she found both infuriating and irresistible. He reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, his touch gentle, disarming. "I only ever think about you, sunshine."
Daphne huffed, her cheeks flushed, the jealousy still simmering. "You could've made it clearer."
Theo chuckled softly, pulling her closer. "I didn't need to. The only person I care about is standing right here, glaring daggers at me." He tilted her chin up, his thumb tracing her jawline. "You think I'd let anyone else get to me like you do?"
Daphne tried to hold onto her scowl, but his words, the soft intensity in his eyes, were chipping away at her resolve. "I just..." she started, her voice softer now, her jealousy giving way to vulnerability. "I don't like her touching you."
Theo pressed a kiss upon her her forehead and rested his against hers again. "I know. I'm sorry. I didn't want to make a scene. I was trying to keep an eye on you the whole time." His voice dropped, earnest. "I didn't want to miss a second of you out here."
Daphne's heart skipped a beat, the remnants of her frustration melting. Still, she wasn't ready to let him off the hook completely. "Next time, I won't just glare. I'll intervene."
He grinned, his lips brushing against hers. "Next time, I won't give you a reason to."
Daphne finally allowed a small smile, her arms unfolding to rest on his chest. "Good. Because I'm not above causing a scene."
Theo laughed, the sound warm and genuine, his arms wrapping tighter around her. "That's my girl."
____________________
Levi
Levi sat alone in the quiet cabin, the flickering glow of the fireplace casting long shadows across the room. The soft crackle of burning wood filled the silence, but inside his head, the memories were loud, swirling with thoughts of Evie. He leaned back in the worn armchair, fingers tracing the grooves on the armrest.
He thought about his first kiss at the zoo. The memory was so vividâEvie's wide, surprised eyes, the warmth of her lips, and the way her hand trembled slightly in his. Their hearts pounding, bodies shivering, mind racing. Levi remembered the way he had leaned into the kiss. But after, he had ruined it, telling her he was saving his first real kiss for someone special, someone who mattered.
The look on her face when he said itâhe could still see it, the hurt that flashed before she masked it. She had walked away, shoulders stiff, leaving him with a hollow ache that had never quite faded.
Now, sitting in the solitude of the cabin, Levi's chest tightened with regret. He hadn't kissed anyone since that day. Not because he was waiting for someone else, but because no one else had ever felt like Evie. No one had made his heart race the way she did or left him breathless with just a glance.
He closed his eyes, the silence around him growing heavier. He had missed so many chancesâso many moments when he could have told her how much she meant to him, how much he loved her. Instead, he had pushed her away, hidden behind words that he now wished he could take back.
The cabin felt colder without her presence, the emptiness around him echoing the void inside. He had let her slip through his fingers, and now, all he had were memories of what could have beenâof a love he had felt too late, and a kiss that had haunted him ever since.
Levi pushed himself up from the armchair, ready to get away from the cabin's stifling silence. He needed airâneeded to escape the memories gnawing at him. The floorboards creaked under his feet as he made his way to the door, the chill of the evening air already seeping through the cracks.
Just as he reached for the handle, voices drifted through the thin walls. Levi froze, his hand hovering mid-air.
It was Harry. His tone was low and hushed, but there was an intensity that made Levi's gut twist.
"...I know...I know, I miss you too, sweetheart," Harry's voice carried from the backyard.
Levi's insides twisted as he imagined Evie on the other side of the phone call. His jaw clenched and his hands balle dinto fists.
"You know how Evie is," Harry's voice broke through the cloud in Levi's mind once again as he scoffed. "She's unbearable at times. These Americans and their loud parties."
Levi's brow furrowed, a prickle of unease creeping up his spine. He edged closer to the window, peering through the curtain's gap. Harry stood on the patio, phone pressed to his ear, his free hand gesturing wildly.
"I promise I will be back as soon as I can get away from here," Harry continued, his voice dropping. "She's forcing me to be here with her friends. You know how much I hate the snow."
Levi's mind raced. There was no mistaking itâHarry was having an affair.
Levi's outrage flared, hot and immediate, coursing through him like wildfire.
Evie. She had trusted Harry, believed in him. And now this?
Levi clenched his fists, his knuckles turing white and his jaw tightening. Every muscle in his body tensed with the urge to confront Harry right then and there. But he didn't dare step outside.
Evie needed to know. She deserved to know the truth, no matter how much it would hurt. Levi turned on his heel, his determination hardening with every step. He had missed his chances with her before, but thisâthis was a chance to protect her, to be there when it mattered most.
Without looking back, he strode out of the cabin, his mind set on finding Evie and telling her everything.
_____________________
Mason
The pulsing bass of the music reverberated through the dimly lit club as Lily slipped away from the dance floor, the crowded space parting around her like a ripple in water. Mason watched her leave out of the corner of his eye but didn't move to follow. His attention drifted back to Wendy, who lingered in the flashing shadows, her gaze fixed on the swaying crowd.
Mason's breath caught in his chest as he watched Wendy, her silhouette framed by the strobing lights. Every movement of her body seemed to pull him deeper, his pulse quickening. Her eyes met his, glinting with a challenge, before she turned, pressing her back against his chest. The contact sent a rush through him, his hands instinctively finding her waist as they moved together.
The music roared in his ears, but all he could focus on was the intoxicating feel of her against himâthe soft sway of her hips, the warmth of her body. Wendy's head tilted back slightly, her hair brushing his cheek, and for a moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the room. Mason leaned in, drawn closer by the unexplainable pull of her presence, each beat of the music syncing with the pounding in his chest.
"Oh, fuck me," Mason groaned, chuckling against Wendy's ear.
"What?" Wendy asked, looking over her shoulder.
"You're my baby sister's best friend," Mason grinned. "I shouldn't be having these thoughts about you."
Wendy's lips curled into a sly smile, her eyes glimmering in the low light. She turned to face him, her hands sliding up his arms as the music swirled around them.
"Maybe you shouldn't think so much," she teased, her voice a playful challenge that sent a shiver down his spine.
Mason raised an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth lifting in a smirk.
"Yeah?" His hands tightened slightly on her waist, pulling her a fraction closer. The space between them seemed to crackle with tension, each beat of the music amplifying the electricity in the air.
Wendy leaned in, her lips brushing against his ear, the warmth of her breath sending goosebumps across his skin. "I don't bite... unless you're into that."
Mason chuckled, his heart racing. "You're dangerous," he murmured, his voice low and rough.
Wendy tilted her head, eyes locking with his, a playful challenge dancing in her gaze. "You seem like you can handle it."
Mason leaned in, their faces mere inches apart now, the noise of the club fading into a distant hum. "You have no idea."
Their eyes held, the tension between them building, every inch of distance charged with possibility. Wendy's fingers traced a slow, deliberate line down his chest, her smile never faltering. "Then show me."
Mason's breath caught in his throat, his mind spinning. Was she serious? The playful gleam in Wendy's eyes made it hard to tell. His hands hovered uncertainly on her waist, his heart pounding.
This is your sister's best friend, a voice in his head reminded him. For a split second, doubt flashed across his face, hesitation weighing him down like a heavy chain.
Wendy's eyes flickered, catching the pause. Her smile faltered, then sharpened into something elseâalmost amused. She laughed, a soft, knowing sound that cut through the music. Without warning, she slipped from his grasp, spinning away like smoke in the dark.
"Too bad," she tossed over her shoulder, already moving toward another guy nearby. The flash of her mischievous grin was the last thing Mason saw before she leaned in close to the stranger, her body swaying effortlessly to the music. "You lost your shot," she called back, the words almost lost in the pulsing bass.
Mason stood frozen, the heat of her touch still lingering on his skin. His jaw clenched, frustration and something sharper twisting in his chest. He watched her dance, his heart hammering, a mix of regret and longing settling heavily in his stomach.
________________
Levi
Levi pushed through the crowded entrance of the club, his jaw tight and his hands curled into fists. The pounding bass throbbed in his ears, each beat a harsh reminder of why he hated places like this. Strobe lights sliced through the darkness, casting sharp, disorienting flashes that made the crowd feel like a writhing, chaotic mass. The smell of sweat, alcohol, and cheap perfume hung thick in the air. Levi's eyes scanned the room, ignoring the press of bodies and the cacophony of laughter and shouts. Every part of him screamed to leave, but he clenched his jaw and kept moving forward.
But Levi didn't care. He had to find Evie.
Pushing through the throng of people, his eyes scanned the room with a laser focus, blocking out everything else. Then, through the haze and chaos, he saw her.
Evie was on the dance floor, moving with a grace that made the room around her blur. Her hair caught the shifting lights, cascading like liquid gold. Her eyes were closed, a soft, radiant smile on her lips as she lost herself in the music. The way she swayed, the way her dress clung and her hips swayed with each movementâit left him breathless.
Levi froze, the noise fading into a distant hum. His heart stuttered, an unfamiliar tightness in his chest. She looked incredibly beautiful, more than he could ever put into words. In that moment, everything elseâthe crowd, the lights, the pounding musicâdisappeared. There was only Evie.
Evie opened her eyes, the music fading into a distant echo as her gaze met Levi's. The world around them seemed to slow, the flashing lights dimming, the crowd dissolving into a blur. Her breath caught in her throat as she saw him, standing at the edge of the dance floor, his eyes fixed on her with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine.
Levi's heart pounded as he moved toward her, every step deliberate, his focus locked on her like she was the only thing in the room. The space between them closed in an instant, yet time stretched, each moment thick with unspoken words and longing.
He didn't stop when he reached her; he didn't say a word. Instead, he lifted a hand, pushing his fingers into her hair, cradling the back of her head. His touch was firm yet gentle, his thumb grazing her cheek as he tilted her face up toward his.
Their eyes locked, the air between them electric, their breaths mingling as their lips hovered just inches apart. Neither moved, both caught in the magnetic pull, the tension thick and heavy, pressing down on them like a storm about to break.
"What are you doing?" Evie's voice, breathless and confused, was a sharp contrast to the electric tension that clung to them.
Levi's hand moved instinctively, sliding around her waist, pulling her closer, his voice low and intense. "Let me kiss you," he said, his words a plea. "Please."
Evie shook her head, the slight movement almost imperceptible. "That's the worst idea you've ever had," she whispered, but the hesitation in her voice only fueled his rage. "Harryâ"
Levi's control snapped. He jerked his head back slightly, his mind refocusing. "Isn't here," he snapped, the mention of Harry grounding him, pulling him from the haze of desire. "And he's not good for you at all. You have to leave him."
"Not this again, Levi," Evie's sigh was full of frustration, but also resignation. She tried to pull away, a small attempt to distance herself from the storm that was Levi.
But Levi wasn't finished. His grip tightened around her, his other hand pressing firmly on her back, anchoring her in place. He didn't give her room to retreat. His voice dropped to a growl.
"Listen to me, damn it," he demanded, his tone sharp and forceful. "He's cheating on you. I heard him on the phone with someone else. If you don't leave him, Evelyn..." His words trailed off for a split second as a dark, dangerous edge cut through his voice. "I will snap his neck."
Evie didn't flinch.
Levi's words, sharp and raw with fury, seemed to hang in the air between them, but they didn't shake her. She didn't gasp, didn't blink in surprise. Not a flicker of emotion passed across her face, and for a long moment, it was as if she hadn't heard him at all.
Her eyes remained steady, locked onto his with a calmness that unsettled him more than anything. Her posture didn't shift, didn't betray a single ounce of the chaos he felt burning in his chest. Her expression was unreadable, her face like stone, unmoved by the threat in his voice, the weight of his words.
Levi stood there, his grip still tight on her, his mind whirling as his anger began to spiral into confusion. He had expected somethingâanythingâa flicker of surprise, of hurt, or maybe even anger. But all he got was this unshakable stillness, a silence that pressed against him, suffocating him. Evie's eyes bored into his with an unnerving calm.
Levi's mind exploded with a surge of anger, his blood burning as he realized the truth.
"You already know...." he said in disbelief. The way she was looking at him, the slight, guarded way she held herself, told him she had already uncovered the betrayal. The realization hit him like a punch to the gut.
Evie didn't say a word. Instead, she slowly turned on her heel, her movements deliberate, as if she were walking away from something far more familiar than Levi ever wanted to admit. Her back was to him now, and for a moment, the air between them seemed impossibly thick. Levi's chest tightened as she started to walk away, and the silence that followed her felt like a slap in the face.
His mind was reeling, the weight of her indifference pushing him to the edge. She's just going to walk away?
Fury surged through him in waves, each one hotter than the last. Without thinking, he moved quickly, his feet pounding against the floor as he followed her to the narrow pathway leading to the bathrooms, the space between them closing with each step. His jaw clenched, his muscles tense, as his mind screamed for answersâanswers he needed, answers he didn't understand, answers that had been ripped away from him the moment she refused to react.
"Evelyn!" His voice cracked through the air, a command, a demand. He didn't care who was watching. His hand reached out, grabbing her wrist, pulling her to a stop before she could slip further into the crowd.
She didn't struggle.
Her eyes met his again, cool and steady, as if the intensity of his emotionsâhis rage, his confusionâmeant nothing to her.
Levi's breath came hard, his grip tightening on her wrist, his voice low, but seething.
"What the hell is going on? You know. You know about himâand you're still going to marry him?" His words burned with disbelief and anger, his chest heaving as he tried to process the reality of what he was seeing. She wasn't some naive girl clinging to the illusion of love. She was making a choice.
"Say something," Levi demanded, his voice harsh. "Why the hell are you still going through with this?"
Evie remained silent, her gaze unyielding. For a moment, it felt like the entire world had slowed, the weight of her silence pressing down on him harder than anything she could have said. The moment stretched, and Levi felt the rage, the confusion, the crushing realization that this wasn't just about Harry anymoreâthis had to be something greater then the dickhead.
As Levi tried to reel in his thoughts, Evie didn't pull away, but she didn't give in either.
And it broke something inside of Levi.
"You don't love him, do you?" Levi asked, stepping closer Until Evie was again the wall of the dark narrow hall. "All this was an act, wasn't it?"
Evie parted he lips, a lie forming. But Levi didn't let her.
Without thinking, without considering the consequences, Levi stepped forward. His hand, still gripping her wrist, moved swiftly to her neck, cupping her jaw as he yanked her toward him. His lips crashed against hers, hard and urgent, driven by an intense need to make her feel everythingâthe fury, the helplessness, the burning desire to reach her.
It was a kiss of demand. No softness. No gentleness. Just raw, unfiltered emotion. His lips pressed fiercely against hers, as though he were trying to force the words he couldn't say through the force of the kiss. He kissed her like it was his last chance, like he was trying to erase the distance that had grown between them, like he was trying to make her feel the same fire that was consuming him from the inside out.
Evie didn't respond at first. Her body stiffened beneath him, but she didn't pull away. For a heartbeat, they were locked in that charged, painful stillness, the world around them blurring as everything narrowed to the feel of her against him. Then, slowly, a tension flickered in her lips and she kissed him back. Parting her lips, she leaned into him, letting his tongue into her mouth as she gripped his shirt, pulling him toward her as if she wanted to melt them into one being.
For a moment, it felt like time had frozen, as if everythingâthe anger, the confusion, the painâhad dissolved into the raw, desperate connection between them. Levi's hands tangled in her hair, pulling her closer as their lips moved together with a need that neither could deny. Her body, once stiff beneath him, softened, her grip on his shirt tightening, pulling him into her like she wanted to become part of him. It was a kiss that felt like surrender and defiance all at once, as though they were fighting and giving in at the same time.
But just as quickly as the tension had built, it shattered. Evie's hands pushed against his chest, her palms flat against him as she broke the kiss, pulling away with a sharp gasp. Levi blinked, his mind scrambling to process the sudden shift, the air between them now thick with the aftermath of the kiss.
Evie's breath was shallow, her chest rising and falling as her eyes locked onto his with an intensity that made his heart hammer in his chest.
"What the hell are you doing?" Evie's voice was quiet but firm, the words slicing through the space between them. Her gaze didn't falter, but there was something in her eyes nowâa hardness, a guardedness that hadn't been there before.
Levi opened his mouth to speak, to argue, but she held up a hand, silencing him. "Don't you dare ever try something like this again." Her words were not just a plea but a command.
He swallowed, his mind reeling, but she was already stepping back, her body moving with purpose as she created more space between them. The distance between them felt unbearable, like a physical ache that mirrored the emotional one pulsing through his chest.
"Evelyn..." Levi's voice was rough, raw with frustration, but she didn't look back. She was resolute, her expression unreadable, as though she were locking herself away behind a wall that Levi couldn't tear down.
"Stop," she repeated, her voice sharper now, more insistent. "This was a mistake. We're not... whatever you think this is, it's not what I need."
Levi's breath hitched, the weight of her words sinking into him like a stone. He stood there, frozen, as she turned and walked away, her steps firm, deliberate, her back to him as if she were already moving on.
And it broke him all over again.