13. Delcy

I tooka deep breath as I fiddled with the strap of the dress that draped over my frame. It was nothing short of breathtaking, adorned with intricate lace detailing that clung to my slender figure, accentuating every curve with an almost bespoke precision. The soft hue of blue seemed to imbue my skin with an ethereal radiance.

Lydia had selected this dress for me with a keen eye, urging me to step out of my comfort zone and into something that whispered elegance and sexy rather than shouted simplicity—a far cry from the unadorned and modest attire I typically wear.

"You look absolutely stunning!" she gushed as she added the finishing touches to my makeup.

I smiled at her enthusiasm. Lydia seemed even more excited about this date than I was. She had been in an unusually chipper mood all afternoon as we got ready together in my small apartment.

"Did something good happen today?" I asked. "You seem really happy for some reason."

"Oh, no, nothing in particular," Lydia replied casually, though the grin remained plastered on her face. "I"m just so thrilled for you and this amazing opportunity."

I nodded, though her over-the-top excitement struck me as odd. I pushed the thought from my mind as nerves began to take hold once again. This was my second date with Colton and Jaxon, and butterflies still fluttered in my stomach at the thought.

Our first date together had been an exhilarating whirlwind. When Colton and Jaxon had each leaned in to give me a goodnight kiss, the feeling of their lips pressing against mine had left me dizzy with desire and confusion. I had never experienced such an instant spark of attraction for any man before, let alone two stunningly gorgeous, successful billionaire alphas like the Sterling brothers.

Being the center of their attention made me feel treasured in a way I never had before, but it also left me conflicted. I was an inexperienced omega who had always been wary of alpha men. Yet somehow, I felt safe with them.

While the intensity of my attraction to them excited me, it also filled me with trepidation. I had never let an alpha get close to me, let alone two. But they had awakened feelings within me I could no longer deny. I was venturing into uncharted territory, and though it terrified me, I knew deep down that I wanted to explore it further with them.

I shook my head, trying to clear it and steady my nerves. I took a deep breath again as I slipped on the pair of heels Lydia had lent me. The stilettos were a shiny silver and at least four inches tall. I wobbled unsteadily, still not used to such spindly shoes. Fashion over function, Lydia always said.

But since I"m an aspiring fashion designer myself, I should become accustomed to this. Maybe someday my designs would gain widespread recognition and my public image would necessitate that I wear high heels such as these.

I tried to ignore the discomfort of the stilettos as I teetered across the room. Though fashion often demanded sacrifice, I couldn"t deny the appeal of the heels. They elongated my legs and gave me a graceful poise I usually lacked. When I caught my reflection in the mirror, I had to admit I looked good. The sleek stilettos complemented the short dress.

"You have to show off those gorgeous legs tonight," Lydia said.

I had to admit, I did feel sexy and sophisticated. If I was going to hold my own with two dominant alphas, I needed all the confidence I could summon.

I chuckled and said, "I feel like I could easily twist an ankle trying to walk in these things."

Lydia snorted elegantly. "Just take small steps."

The doorbell rang, and I jolted, my stomach flip-flopping, and my heart began to pound rapidly. Colton and Jaxon were already here.

I did a final check of my appearance in the mirror. My dark hair fell in soft waves over my shoulders, the ends gently brushing against my bare back where the dress dipped low. Lydia had taken extra care with my makeup, using a shimmery shadow on my lids that made my brown eyes pop in a way I wasn"t used to. A touch of blush warmed my cheekbones, and my lips looked full and kissable coated in a rose-colored gloss.

The sleek stilettos made my legs look miles long. Paired with the short, figure-hugging dress, I looked elegant, sophisticated, and sexy—nothing at all like my usual casual self. I hardly recognized the confident, stylish woman staring back at me in the reflection. Everything about the look Lydia had helped me pull together exuded an allure that was new to me.

Lydia said, "Have fun. I"ll see myself out. Now go."

"Okay, thanks, Lydia," I said as I grabbed my handbag.

I rushed out of my apartment, my heels clicking on the floor as I hurried to the elevator. When the doors opened, I was greeted by the sight of Colton and Jaxon leaning casually against that sleek red thirty-million-dollar Rolls-Royce parked at the curb.

Both men looked impossibly handsome in tailored suits, Colton in charcoal gray and Jaxon in navy. Their strong alpha presence engulfed me, and I had to take a steadying breath, the woodsy scent of their pheromones already making me feel lightheaded.

I felt their piercing gazes as I strode closer, the intensity in their eyes scorching my skin. Jaxon"s deep blue eyes seemed particularly entranced by the hem of my short skirt, lingering there with an appreciative glint. And Colton—his gaze was like a caress, sweeping over the contours of my body, pausing at the daring neckline of my dress. I could see the smoldering heat darken his stormy eyes.

Drawing a deep breath, I found myself before them, the pounding of my heart a stark contrast to my soft greeting.

"Hello," I managed to utter, my voice laced with a hint of nervousness.

Jaxon"s response was immediate and effusive, his warm smile reaching his eyes.

"Good evening, Delcy. You look breathtaking," he said, his tone rich with admiration as his eyes roamed over me, leaving a trail of heat in their wake.

Feeling a rush of warmth flood my face, I murmured a shy, "Thanks," my voice barely above a whisper. His words had the power to unnerve me, yet I couldn"t help adding, "You look great too." His attire spoke of elegance and ease, a testament to the effortless charm he carried.

Colton"s strong hand was on the car door, holding it open as he gestured for me to step inside. With a grace I didn"t feel, I slid into the back seat, the luxurious leather cool against my skin. I took care to arrange the fabric of my dress, ensuring modesty as I settled in.

The brothers took their places in the car, the atmosphere charged with unspoken tension. As the engine purred to life, we glided away from the curb, the city lights blurring past as we wove through the night.

We arrived at a lavish hotel downtown that housed a Michelin-starred French restaurant on the top floor. I gaped in awe at the opulent lobby with its soaring ceilings, massive chandeliers, and floors of polished marble.

We were swiftly escorted by the ma?tre d" to a window-side table overlooking the glittering cityscape at night. The view was breathtaking, but I could hardly focus on it with Colton and Jaxon sitting on either side of me. Their thighs occasionally brushed mine, sending little thrills up my spine.

I fiddled nervously with the hem of the tablecloth as the impeccably dressed waiter approached our table. He had an air of effortless elegance that I found intimidating.

"Bonsoir, Monsieur Sterling, Monsieur Sterling, Mademoiselle," he greeted us formally. "Are you ready to order?"

Colton responded first in flawless French that I couldn"t understand, his voice a low rumble. The waiter nodded approvingly, jotting down notes on his pad. Then Jaxon ordered in French as well, his accent as smooth and natural as if he"d been speaking the language his whole life. I felt a flush creep up my neck as I realized it would soon be my turn.

When the waiter turned to me expectantly, I stammered, "I"ll have the roasted chicken, please."

My voice sounded embarrassingly small and unsophisticated after hearing Colton and Jaxon"s refined French. I felt utterly out of my depth in this luxurious setting.

"Parfait choix, Mademoiselle," the waiter replied with an approving nod.

I stared at him blankly, not understanding his words. Beside me, Jaxon chuckled under his breath, a smile playing on his lips.

"What did he say?" I asked nervously.

"He said you made an excellent choice," Jaxon translated, amusement sparkling in his eyes.

"Oh," I murmured, feeling my cheeks grow warm.

He leaned in closer. "I think you"re adorable," he said, his voice a low caress. "Your innocence is captivating."

My blush deepened at his words. I wasn"t used to compliments, especially not from stunningly handsome billionaires like Jaxon and especially not when I was so unrefined and unworldly.

I lowered my gaze and busied myself sipping water from my crystal goblet as Jaxon and Colton carried on a conversation in rapid French. I didn"t understand a word, but there was an unmistakable intimacy in their banter.

Watching them converse so effortlessly in their luxurious surroundings, I was struck again by how out of place I felt. Everything about this date felt foreign to me—the fancy restaurant, the lavish food, the fluent French. I was a simple coffee shop girl, more comfortable in my stained Brewed Dreams apron than an elegant cocktail dress.

What could these powerful, cultured men possibly see in someone as ordinary as me? I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, acutely aware of the differences in our stations.

A few moments later, the waiter returned with our meals, serving us with quiet efficiency. I stared down at my plate, which held an elegantly arranged roasted chicken drizzled in a fragrant sauce. Roasted potatoes and vegetable medley completed the artistic presentation.

I glanced over at Colton"s plate—a juicy steak smothered in a rich, buttery sauce. Jaxon was served a delicate-looking fish, flaky and white, garnished with lemon and fresh herbs.

Everything looked and smelled incredible. I cut into my chicken, savoring the tenderness of the meat. The seasoning was incredible, unlike anything I"d ever tasted.

"This is delicious," I said after swallowing my first heavenly bite.

"I"m pleased you"re enjoying it, Delcy," Colton said, pleasure warming his voice. His stormy gaze lingered on my lips.

I took a sip of wine, savoring the dry, oaky flavor. The alcohol helped settle my nerves a bit. As we ate, Jaxon and Colton drew me into light, lively conversation, their charm and charisma on full display.

Though I still felt self-conscious about my inexperience in their world, their attention and interest soon put me at ease. But that didn"t last long. I tried to steady my breathing when Jaxon leaned in close, his warm breath tickling my ear.

"Here, have a taste of this," he murmured. Before I could respond, his fork was in front of my lips, offering a tender morsel of flaky white fish drizzled in lemon sauce.

My eyes fluttered closed as I accepted the bite, the citrus flavor bursting on my tongue. I was hyperaware of his proximity, his spicy alpha scent invading my senses. As I slowly chewed the tender fish, I could feel the heat radiating from his body next to mine.

Too soon, he pulled back, watching me intently as I swallowed. "Delicious, isn"t it?"

I nodded, not trusting my voice. His casual intimacy had set my heart racing. I took a hasty sip of wine to steady my nerves.

On my other side, Colton"s fingers grazed my cheek, tucking a lock of hair gently behind my ear. His light touch sent a spark through my entire body. I shivered involuntarily at the skin-to-skin contact, my omega pheromones responding to his alpha nearness whether I willed it or not.

I felt my body temperature rising as my nerves came alive. Their dual attentions were wreaking havoc on my senses, their alpha pheromones and light caresses making rational thought nearly impossible.

I shifted uncomfortably in my seat. Maybe I should have taken an extra suppressant as a precaution before coming out tonight. I had assumed one would be sufficient to get through the evening, but I was quickly realizing that being in close proximity to these two powerful alphas was a test of my restraint.

I needed to get a grip on myself before my body"s reactions became even more obvious. The last thing I wanted was to embarrass myself by having my omega pheromones go into overdrive.

Taking a deep breath, I reached for my water glass with a shaky hand, hoping the cool liquid would help settle me. I reminded myself that this upscale restaurant was hardly the place for my hormones to rage out of control.

As much as Colton and Jaxon"s nearness affected me, I needed to maintain composure. I just had to make it through the rest of dinner without doing something I"d regret.

Over decadent chocolate cake, Jaxon and Colton regaled me with stories of their globe-trotting adventures. Part of me was acutely aware of my physical response to their proximity and scent, while another part was captivated by their stories of exotic locales like Paris, Tokyo, and Dubai—places I had only imagined visiting. Their cosmopolitan experiences only highlighted how small my world was in comparison.

With our meal done, I felt a sense of relief. Perhaps a change in setting, and seating arrangement, would ease my charged nerves.

As we left the dining room, I glimpsed a familiar flash of fiery-red hair out of the corner of my eye. I did a double take, my steps faltering. Was that... Amanda?

Sure enough, there was Amanda, arm in arm with a silver-haired gentleman in an impeccable suit. He looked to be in his late fifties or early sixties—easily three times her age. They were heading toward the elevator bank, deep in conversation.

Before I could process this surprising sight, I caught a glimpse of flowing auburn locks cascading over a bare shoulder. Nora! She was walking alongside a distinguished older man with salt-and-pepper hair. His hand rested proprietarily on her back.

They must have just finished dining here as well. Amanda and Nora—my so-called friends who never failed to make me feel small. Yet here they were, in the company of affluent older men who gazed at them like they were the most captivating creatures on earth.

Amanda"s eyes met mine, and her painted lips parted in shock. Nora turned her head, following Amanda"s gaze. Her heavily lined eyes widened at the sight of me with Colton and Jaxon. I saw a flash of something akin to rage cross her face before she schooled her features into cool indifference.

My mind spun with questions as we continued toward the lounge. Were these wealthy older men their… relatives? But the way the men held them in their arms told me a different story. Were they perhaps boyfriends? Amanda and Nora had never mentioned dating anyone.

I shook my head in disbelief. It seemed my alpha friends had hidden depths I knew nothing about.

I was still deep in thought when we arrived at the lounge. The lighting was low, the leather couches luxuriously soft. A jazz trio played unobtrusively in the corner, and an elaborate bar lined one side of the room.

Colton guided me to a couch, and I sank into the buttery leather, acutely aware of his thigh pressed against mine. On my other side, Jaxon"s arm draped casually over my shoulders, his fingertips tracing delicate patterns that made my skin tingle. This sitting arrangement was even more intimate than before, and I took in a shuddering breath to calm my nerves.

Their combined alpha presence enveloped me in a haze of headiness I knew I should resist, yet couldn"t summon the will to do so.

Colton"s voice interrupted my thoughts.

"Can I get you a drink?" His stormy eyes regarded me intently.

I bit my lip. I probably shouldn"t imbibe anything stronger than mineral water if I wanted to keep my wits about me. But the thought of another glass of crisp white wine was so tempting...

"Just a glass of white wine, please," I requested softly.

Colton"s lips curved. "An excellent choice." He stroked my cheek gently before rising to go to the bar.

Beside me, Jaxon shifted closer, his hips aligning with mine. My breath caught at the contact. His fingers continued their maddening exploration along my shoulder and down my arm.

"You"re exquisite." His voice was a low caress in my ear.

My eyes fluttered shut and I suppressed a pleasurable shudder at his words. I couldn"t formulate a response, my mind hazy.

Before I could gather my scattered thoughts, Colton returned with our drinks. The brief separation had done nothing to tamp down the electric tension between us. If anything, it crackled stronger than ever.

I accepted the wine with a slightly trembling hand and took a fortifying sip. The crisp flavor helped ground me, though it did little to diminish the effects of Colton and Jaxon"s nearness.

As we sipped our drinks, their hands occasionally grazed my bare shoulders and knees, subtle caresses that set my skin aflame. Their teasing touches and heady alpha scent made it impossible to relax.

My omega instinct urged me closer, longing to eliminate any last traces of space between our bodies. I clenched my fingers around the delicate stem of my wineglass, using the fine crystal to anchor my runaway thoughts.

Get a grip, Delcy, I chided myself. I couldn"t lose control. Not here in this refined setting, with their thighs pressed to mine and their gazes burning with unspoken desire. No, I had to remain composed and in command of myself.

But as the minutes passed in a haze of wine and wandering touches, my rigid self-control began to fracture. Their hands trailed up my neck, across my décolletage, along the length of my legs—nowhere inappropriate, yet bold enough to test my limits.

And when Jaxon"s thumb grazed the corner of my mouth in a featherlight caress, I shuddered, every nerve ending electric. My eyes fluttered closed and I drew in a shaky breath, my lips parting ever so slightly.

In that heated moment, my omega instincts surged forth unchecked, yearning to close the aching distance between us. I swayed toward Jaxon, my hand coming to rest on his muscled thigh. I felt the rumble of Colton"s approving growl vibrate against my back as he pressed closer.

My mind clouded with desire. Dimly, I knew I was on the brink of losing all inhibitions. Every cell in my body cried out to give in to their skillful seduction.

With my last scrap of rational thought, I downed the rest of my wine in one gulp, hoping the alcohol would shock some sense into me. I couldn"t let myself cross a line I"d regret. Not tonight. Not yet.

I had to prove I was more than just a weak-willed omega under the spell of powerful alphas. Mustering my remaining willpower, I gently extracted myself from their embrace and rose unsteadily to my feet.

"It"s getting late. I, uh, I think we should get going." My voice sounded breathless to my own ears.

Their eyes smoldered as they took in my disheveled appearance and rapid breathing. Slow, wicked smiles spread across their faces at the visible effect they"d had on me. They knew exactly how close they"d come to shattering my restraint completely.

Colton"s voice was a low rumble. "Of course. We"ll take you home."

The promise in those simple words made me tremble.

* * *

I felta sense of foreboding as Colton headed for the driver"s seat of the car instead of Jaxon. My nerves only intensified when Jaxon opened the back door and gestured for me to get in first. As he slid in next to me, I became acutely aware of how confined the space felt with his tall, muscular frame taking up more than his share.

I stared out the window, watching the city lights streak by in a blur. The lingering heat from their powerful pheromones at dinner hadn"t yet dissipated, and having Jaxon so close in the confined space of the car made me anxious that I would lose control of my senses.

I tried to steady my breathing and calm my racing heart as Jaxon moved in close, his thigh brushing mine. The contact sent a jolt through my body despite the layer of fabric separating our skin. He was affecting me already, even without direct touch. I clenched my hands tightly in my lap, willing myself not to give in to instinct.

But as Colton pulled out of the parking lot, Jaxon shifted even closer. I felt my cheeks flush as his scent encompassed me, masculine and irresistible.

Get a grip, I told myself sternly, trying to ignore the way my pulse had quickened. Jaxon was an alpha, used to getting any woman he wanted. I wouldn"t be another conquest.

As the drive continued, Jaxon subtly shifted his arm, resting it behind me along the seatback. Now and then, his fingers would graze my shoulder or the nape of my neck, each brief contact igniting my skin. I bit my lip, suppressing a gasp at the tingles racing down my spine.

My breaths grew short and quick as Jaxon"s light caresses became bolder. His hand slid down to my lower back, fingers splaying out just above the curve of my backside. I squirmed under his touch, both wanting to flee and wishing to melt against him. My head spun, drunk on their combined alpha scent permeating the small space. Jaxon"s lips lingered a hair"s breadth from the tender skin below my ear, his warm exhales sending shivers through me. My thoughts fragmented, rationality slipping away as primal need took its place.

Jaxon"s nose skimmed my jawline, inhaling deeply before his lips met the corner of my mouth in a featherlight kiss. My lips parted in surprise, eyes fluttering shut as he continued to place delicate kisses along my cheek, my temple, my brow. He was asking permission, giving me the chance to stop him if I wished. But I found myself immobilized, my body crying out for more despite the warnings in my mind.

When his mouth finally captured mine, the kiss was slow and searching at first, gauging my reaction. My hands came up of their own volition, fingers tangling in his hair to pull him closer as I returned the kiss.

Jaxon made a low noise of approval, his grip on my waist tightening. The kiss deepened, our tongues meeting in a sensual dance that stole the air from my lungs. I was lost, my senses overwhelmed by Jaxon"s lips and hands caressing me. My skin burned everywhere he touched, my core aching and wet with need.

In the front seat, Colton"s eyes found mine in the rearview mirror, dark with desire. It should have frightened me, this loss of control, of reason. But I had no will to resist as Jaxon devoured my mouth, one hand trailing up my thigh beneath my dress. I clung to him, drowning in sensation, my body moving of its own volition to get closer.

The car came to a sudden halt, and I expected to see my apartment building looming outside the window. Instead, I found myself staring at a dimly lit park, the city lights twinkling in the distance. My heart raced as I tried to make sense of our unexpected destination.

Before I could even form a question, the door beside me opened, and Colton slid into the back seat, his eyes dark and intense. The air in the car grew thick with anticipation, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. I knew what was coming, but I couldn"t find the will to resist.

Colton"s strong arms encircled me, pulling me into his embrace as his mouth found mine in a searching kiss. I gasped in surprise, my lips parting to allow him entry. His tongue danced with mine, tasting and exploring as if trying to claim me. My hands came up to grip his shoulders, fingers digging into the fabric of his shirt as I tried to anchor myself in the whirlwind of sensations.

On my other side, I heard Jaxon chuckle in amusement. The sound sent a thrill through me, and I knew he was watching us with keen interest. His lips then found the sensitive skin on the side of my neck, placing sweet little kisses that made me shiver. I was trapped between the two dominant alphas, their combined scents and touches overwhelming me.

My mind reeled, trying to process the situation. I knew this was dangerous, that I was playing with fire by allowing myself to be drawn into their world. But I couldn"t deny the pull I felt toward them, the way my body responded to their touch. It was as if I was under a spell, unable to resist their allure.

As Colton deepened the kiss, his hands began to roam my body, caressing my curves with a possessive hunger. I moaned into his mouth, my hips instinctively pressing against him as I sought relief from the growing ache between my legs. Jaxon"s lips continued their assault on my neck, his teeth grazing my skin just enough to send a jolt of pleasure through me.

I was lost in the moment, my thoughts consumed by the sensations coursing through my body. I knew I should stop this, that I was risking everything by allowing myself to be swept up in their passion. But I couldn"t find the strength to pull away, to resist the temptation that was the Sterling twins.

As Colton"s hands moved to cup my breasts, I felt a surge of desire that threatened to consume me. I arched my back, pressing myself further into his touch as I moaned in pleasure. Jaxon"s lips moved to my ear, his breath hot against my skin as he whispered words of encouragement.

"Let go, Delcy," he murmured, his voice low and seductive. "Let us take care of you."

I wanted to obey, to surrender myself to their touch and let them take control. But a small part of me still clung to reason, reminding me of the consequences of giving in to my desires. I knew I couldn"t let this go any further, that I needed to regain control before it was too late.

With a Herculean effort, I pulled away from Colton"s kiss, gasping for breath as I tried to compose myself. His eyes were dark with desire, his chest heaving as he fought to regain his own composure. Jaxon"s lips curved into a knowing smile, as if he had expected my resistance all along.

"I... I can"t do this," I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper. "I"m sorry, but I can"t. I"m… not ready."

Colton"s expression softened, and he gently brushed a stray lock of hair from my face as he leaned in to plant a kiss on my forehead.

"It"s okay, Delcy," he said, his voice gentle. "We understand."

Jaxon nodded in agreement, his hand coming to rest on my thigh in a comforting gesture.

"We"ll take you home," he said, his voice soothing.

As Colton started the car and pulled away from the park, I couldn"t help but feel a sense of relief mixed with disappointment. I knew I had made the right decision, that I couldn"t allow myself to be swept up in their world. But a part of me still yearned for the passion and excitement that came with being in their arms.

I sighed, leaning my head against the cool glass of the window as I watched the city lights pass by. I knew this wasn"t the end, that I would still have to face the Sterling twins and the temptation they represented. But for now, I would take solace in the fact that I had managed to resist their allure, if only for a little while longer.

* * *

I wokeup tired and restless after a night of fitful sleep. The memories of the date kept replaying in my mind. Colton"s and Jaxon"s strong alpha scents, their heated gazes, and sensual touches—it had been intoxicating. And terrifying. I"d almost lost myself in their seduction, my omega instincts taking over in response to their obvious desire. If they hadn"t stopped when I asked, who knows how far things would have gone.

Part of me had wanted to give in, to experience the pleasure I knew they could provide. But the rational part of me was still afraid. Afraid of losing control, of relinquishing my will to their dominance. It reminded me too much of that traumatic night seven years ago during my heat. I"d been completely helpless against the fevered rut of that alpha, my pheromones driving him mad with lust.

I shook my head, trying to clear away the memories. There was no use dwelling on the past. Today was a new day, and I had responsibilities to take care of.

I hauled myself out of bed and headed for the shower, letting the hot water wash away the lingering scent of alpha that clung to my skin. After I dressed in my usual jeans and t-shirt, I made a quick breakfast of oatmeal and tea. Nothing fancy, but it would tide me over until lunch.

My first stop was the grocery store to pick up some essentials. I bought just enough to get me through the next week. My budget was tight, so I had to be careful not to splurge. As I was checking out, I noticed the tabloid headlines speculating about Colton and Jaxon"s romantic interests. Surely, they couldn"t be talking about me. I was a nobody, just a barista from the wrong side of the tracks. What would two powerful alphas want with someone like me?

Pushing away those uneasy thoughts, I loaded up my beat-up old car and headed to Sunrise Elder Care Center. The cheerful receptionist buzzed me in, and I made my way to Grandpa"s room.

"Hey, Grandpa," I said, leaning down to give him a gentle hug.

"Delcy girl, so good to see you," he said, his eyes lighting up. "How"s my favorite granddaughter?"

"I"m your only granddaughter, silly," I teased.

I began tidying up Grandpa"s room, plumping up his pillows and straightening the blankets on his bed. The early morning sun was streaming in through the windows, filling the space with a warm golden glow.

"This weather"s been something else, hasn"t it?" Grandpa said, gesturing outside. "One day it"s freezing cold, the next it"s hot as blazes. Never can make up its mind."

I chuckled. "Yeah, spring in the city is always unpredictable. At least we"re finally getting more of those sunny days you like."

Grandpa nodded, looking wistful. "Sunny days are perfect for the garden. Reminds me of all those years I spent workin" outside, mowing lawns and tending to folks" gardens and yards."

He sighed deeply. I knew how much he missed gardening and being able to nurture living things. This care facility tried to maintain some garden boxes and flower beds outside, but they were often neglected and overgrown with weeds.

"The food here leaves something to be desired too," he grumbled. "Bland as cardboard most days. I"d give my right leg for a decent home-cooked meal."

I gave him a sympathetic smile. The food wasn"t completely terrible, but I knew it didn"t compare to the meals Grandpa used to make, full of rich flavors and his special touch.

As I finished tidying, Grandpa peered at me curiously. "Say, you"re looking extra chipper today. Somethin" good happen?"

I felt my cheeks flush, thinking about last night with Colton and Jaxon. But I shrugged and said, "Oh, nothing really." I didn"t want to get into the details of my complicated dating life just yet.

My phone dinged, indicating an incoming message. I took it out and slid the screen to unlock. There was a text from Amanda: Delcy, it"s Amanda. Can we meet up? How about 11 a.m. at Caffè Eleganza in the Sterling Galleria?

I raised my eyebrows in surprise. Amanda and I were more acquaintances than real friends. For her to reach out like this was unusual. I had a feeling this invite probably had something to do with last night. I texted back a simple: Okay.

"Everything okay?" Grandpa asked, noticing my distraction.

"Yeah, just confirming plans with a... friend," I said. I checked the time on my phone. "Anyway, I should get going soon."

Grandpa nodded. "Well, you take care, Delcy girl. Don"t be lettin" any of those big shot alphas give you trouble now."

I hugged him goodbye. "I won"t, Grandpa. Love you, see you next week."

As I headed out of the care facility, I felt a strange mix of lightness and apprehension. My life seemed like it was taking an unpredictable turn. But as long as I had Grandpa"s support, I knew I"d be okay.

As I slid into the car, a ding sound came from my phone. Thinking it was from Amanda again, I checked it. But instead of Amanda"s, there were two names at the top with recent unread messages—Colton and Jaxon. My heart skipped, and with shaky fingers, I clicked on the top message to read.

Good morning, beautifulwas the simple, warm greeting from Jaxon. I felt a flutter in my stomach as I read his words over again.

I replied, Good morning, handsome. I added the last bit to tease him a little, too.

I checked the one from Colton, and it simply said, Good morning, Delcy. Hope you have a wonderful day ahead.

I found myself smiling, touched by his thoughtfulness. I replied, Good morning. I hope you have a wonderful day, too.

I couldn"t believe these powerful, successful alphas were thinking about me first thing in the morning. Me—a mere coffee shop girl from the wrong side of the tracks. What did they see in me? I was nothing special, at least not in my own eyes.

My heart danced with a lightness that felt as airy as a cloud, buoyed by the unexpected warmth from their messages. With this effervescent feeling bubbling inside me, I practically bounced into the driver"s seat of my car and set off, the engine purring to life as I steered my way toward the grandeur of Sterling Galleria.

When I arrived, I took a moment to stare up at the imposing building. No matter how many times I came here, I was always struck by the sheer opulence. This place represented everything I didn"t have—wealth, status, luxury.

I smoothed my hands over my simple jeans and shirt, suddenly feeling very out of place. Squaring my shoulders, I walked inside with as much confidence as I could muster.

I followed the signs toward Caffè Eleganza, one of the ritzier cafés in the food court. Sure enough, I spotted Amanda right away at a table near the back. I barely recognized her, decked out in designer clothes and an immaculate blowout. As I got closer, I realized she wasn"t alone. Nora was sitting with her.

I approached them, and after a brief greeting, I slid into the plush seat across from them. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and pastries filled the air, making my stomach rumble.

A waiter dressed in a crisp white shirt and black vest approached our table. "Would you ladies care for anything to drink this morning?" he asked politely.

Amanda and Nora ordered espresso drinks. When the waiter turned to me, I said, "A hot chocolate, please."

He gave a small bow and briskly walked away.

Amanda engaged me in idle chatter about my job at the coffee shop, feigning interest. She had invited me here with a purpose in mind and was biding her time until the right moment to broach the true subject at hand.

The drinks arrived swiftly on a silver tray. As the waiter set down our orders, Nora leaned forward and said, "So, did you enjoy your date with the Sterling twins last night?"

There it was. Their real objective for the invite.

I wrapped my hands around the warm mug, staring down into the creamy brown liquid. "Uh, yeah, it was nice," I said vaguely, not wanting to reveal too much.

Amanda said, "I can"t believe you snagged Colton and Jaxon. They"re studs. Every girl in high society talks about them, you know. They"re a hot topic. Just getting a one-night stand with them is a dream come true, let alone going on a date with them. Tell us more."

I shifted uncomfortably in my seat. One-night stands with random girls was the last thing I wanted to imagine Colton and Jaxon doing.

"The, uh, the food was really good," I mumbled, taking a tentative sip of hot chocolate, hoping that would satisfy their curiosity.

But Nora was having none of it. She tossed her sleek hair over one shoulder and fixed me with an intense stare.

"The food is fine, nothing special. We eat food like that all the time. What I really want to know is how did you manage to snag Colton and Jaxon?"

I blinked, confused by her aggressive tone.

"I didn"t snag them. They asked me to join them for a drink back at that gallery event, and then they asked me out to dinner. Last night was only our second date."

Amanda let out a dramatic gasp. "You"ve only been on two dates with them and you"ve already signed an exclusive contract? Wow!"

I nearly choked on my hot chocolate. What was Amanda talking about?

"Contract? What contract?" I asked.

Nora rolled her eyes impatiently. "Ugh, the contract, Delcy! How much are you getting for the exclusive contract with the Sterling brothers?"

My hands started to tremble, causing the hot liquid to slosh dangerously close to the rim of the mug. "What are you talking about?" I asked shakily. "I don"t know anything about any contract."

Amanda and Nora exchanged loaded glances, and a feeling of unease crept down my spine.

"OMG! Don"t tell me you don"t know about the Alpha Gold Club and the contract!" Amanda exclaimed.

The Alpha Gold Club? I had heard of that name before when Lydia had a conversation with someone on the phone.

I shook my head mutely, my breaths coming quicker now.

Nora leaned forward, her voice sharp. "Do you even know you"re a treasure at the Gold Club? That the gallery event where you met the Sterling twins was an auction for the treasures?"

I felt like I"d been sucker punched. Auction? Treasures? What on earth were they talking about?

I set the mug down with trembling hands, afraid I might drop it.

"What? No, that"s... that"s not possible. Lydia told me it was a charity event. She begged to get me invited. She didn"t say anything about..." I trailed off, feeling lightheaded.

Amanda didn"t seem to notice my distress. She scoffed in disbelief. "OMG, Delcy! Lydia lied to you. She"s our agent. We thought she was yours too."

Agent? Lydia was their agent? I blinked rapidly, trying to make sense of what I was hearing.

Nora clicked her tongue impatiently. "An agent is a person who represents a treasure for the Gold Club. They take a thirty percent cut of whatever contract the treasure secures." Her tone made it clear she thought I was a complete idiot.

"I have to go," I choked out, nearly knocking my chair over in my haste to get up. Clutching my bag to my chest like a shield, I hurried toward the cashier, Amanda and Nora"s stunned faces blurring past me. I quickly paid for my drink, and with my mind spinning, I rushed blindly out of the café and paced through the galleria.

Alpha Gold Club? Contract? Treasures? Auction? The words echoed mockingly in my head.

Had I really been so naive? So easily duped by Lydia"s act, thinking she actually cared about me? Bile rose in my throat as the truth sank in. I was nothing but a pawn to her. A treasure to be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

And Colton and Jaxon—were they part of this twisted game too? Was I just a prize to them and not a real person with thoughts and feelings of my own?

No, I couldn"t believe that. I refused to believe that the warmth and care I"d seen in their eyes was all an act. There had to be more to this situation than I realized.

But right now, I needed to get away—to clear my head and sort through the maelstrom of emotions raging inside me. I fled the galleria, desperate to escape. Desperate to cling to the last shreds of my innocence before it was torn away completely.