Epilogue

EPILOGUE

The cruise

Day one

Lucian Leroux

The moment that irritating, mandatory safety drill was over, we lost sight of all the subs who wanted to check out the different pool areas in order to pick a favorite. Let them run wild, I thought. They had everything they needed, and drinks and food were included.

The Florida heat was making me drowsy—in a good way. It felt nice to be on an official vacation where one was supposed to relax. A mental switch had been flipped, and I didn’t have to worry about restlessness.

On our way back to our stateroom, a few of us decided to take it easy for a couple hours, so we stopped at a fast-food joint and ordered burgers, fries, and shakes.

One gentle but pointed look from KC reminded me not to make the unhealthiest choice, so I ordered a fried chicken sandwich instead. Hey, it wasn’t red meat. That counted for something.

Vacation played by its own rules, in my defense. I was taking my medication, I was no longer working, and my diet had undergone a massive change. My blood pressure was going down, albeit slowly. But that was to be expected, according to my doctor.

I’d actually promised KC I would join him in one of the gyms on board. Every morning before breakfast.

So that was going to suck.

By the time we returned to our staterooms, Florida was in the rearview, and we had open waters ahead. First stop was Nassau tomorrow, though I wasn’t sure we’d go ashore. The boys seemed most excited about pool time, brightly colored drinks, and setting their prank in motion.

This morning before we’d come aboard, Greer and I had caught Kit and Noa texting each other all while standing two feet apart. Macklin and Corey had sent each other a couple sly glances as well.

We were onto them. Not that I was particularly worried for myself.

KC and I walked straight through our stateroom and out onto our veranda. We’d already opened every partition, resulting in one long deck that stretched from the Carters’ room to the west to Kingsley and Tate’s room in the east.

We were somewhere in the middle, and we had the Finlays on one side and Ash on the other. He stepped out from his room almost at the same time as Sloan and Greer exited theirs.

“There’s Kingsley too.” Greer jerked his chin. “Kingsley! Bring a couple chairs with ya, bud.”

We made a quick effort to push our side tables and chairs closer, turning our veranda—and Ash’s—into our new hangout area.

“How you doin’, daddy-to-be?” Ash helped Kingsley the last stretch. “I missed you and your boy in the terminal.”

Kingsley chuckled. “Can I blame the daddy-to-be business for that? We overslept because someone was up all night reading about babyproofing.”

I quirked a brow and sat down next to KC. Something was off with that little tale.

Greer cocked his head. “You tryna blame Tate? You borrowed that book from me, man.”

There we go. I laughed as I unwrapped my food.

Kingsley sucked his teeth. “I can be someone, you know. In my defense, he was shopping for fuckin’ baby socks.”

Ash smiled and clapped Kingsley on the back. “Y’all’re gonna be great dads. Savor every damn moment, because before you know it, they’re askin’ to borrow your car, another’s got a date, and they don’t wanna show affection in front of friends.”

“That right there,” Sloan agreed. “God forbid I try to hug our eldest when I drop him off at school.”

Fascinating topic.

Thank goodness there were no children allowed on this cruise.

I looked down the deck, wondering where Colt and Lucas had gone. We needed more Tops who didn’t yammer about kids.

KC and I had made it very simple for ourselves. Cam and Noa could bother with cutesy gifts, both now and at a future baby shower. They’d already handed over two stuffed animals to the happy fathers-to-be. KC’s and my gift to Tate and Kingsley would be savings bonds.

College was expensive.

I bit into my sandwich…and oh my God, that was the perfect crunch. It had to be tempura batter or something. Fucking delicious. Right amount of mayo and lettuce too. And the bun…

“I think we’re boring Lucian,” Greer laughed.

I smirked wryly and reached for my fries.

“Because he can’t relate,” KC chuckled. “Even when he was a kid, he was an old man.”

Oh, piss off.

They kept talking, and so be it. I had a beautiful view of the ocean, it was warm, I was on vacation, and the sky was blue.

Sometimes I forgot that KC could relate. After all, he’d swooped in as Noa’s stepdad when the boy had been eight years old or something.

* * *

That evening, I supposed I took everyone by surprise when I asked Noa out to dinner, just the two of us. But I had important matters to tend to, and I couldn’t think of a better partner in crime. So, while KC and Cam joined a few of the others to check out one of the buffets, Noa and I dressed up to go to a nice restaurant a couple floors above us.

“I guess this is practice for Tate and Master Kingsley’s wedding.” The boy tugged at his tie as we got into the elevator.

I smiled to myself and adjusted it for him. “You look very handsome, sweetheart.”

He’d thought he could troll me too. He’d put on a nice shirt, a tie, and polished shoes.

And his swim trunks.

I hadn’t said a word.

Two could play this game.

“Do you really think so?” He grinned up at me.

“Flawless.” I dipped down and kissed him.

Flawless wasn’t a lie. Noa was supposed to be the wild brat who did goofy things like this. I never wanted that to change.

Five or so minutes later, we arrived at the upscale Asian fusion place hand in hand, and the hostess did a slight double take at Noa’s outfit. Thankfully, she didn’t make any helpful suggestions, despite the dress code, and she showed us to our table on the upper deck.

It was a stunning night, and we had nothing but millions of stars over our heads.

“Holy crap, it’s gorgeous, Sir.”

“It truly is.” I pulled out his chair for him.

A waiter soon came up to us, and we ordered six smaller dishes to share, Coke for Noa, wine for me, and…Noa had his own request.

“Also,” he said, speaking behind his hand, as if I wouldn’t hear, “this is a nice place, and I don’t wanna embarrass my man when I drop the dumplings. Can I have a fork and knife, please?”

I coughed into my fist to hide my amusement.

“Of course, sir.” The waiter grinned a little and walked off.

“Phew.” Noa planted his forearms on the table and looked around us, most tables filled at this hour. “The food looks freaking awesome. I’m so hungry.”

So was I.

I fanned out my napkin across my lap and placed my chopsticks next to my plate.

Noa scratched his nose. “So did you ask me out for a particular reason?”

“More than one.” I smiled and grabbed his hand on the table. “I admit I have a main reason—and we’ll get to that soon—but I miss your company now that we’re not sneaking pizza lunches together in my office.”

His grin softened a little, and he played absently with my fingers. “I do too. Maybe we can come up with new lunch dates? Like, if you sneak out to see me when I work, and we eat behind the store? Or! Or I run home on my break, and I bring you something from the deli. They have roasted broccoli for you.”

I let out a laugh and squeezed his hand. “God, I love you, Noa. I think that sounds like a wonderful plan. Sans roasted broccoli.”

“Well…” He snickered and shrugged. “I have a list of foods from Daddy now, you know.” His mirth faded a bit, and he hesitated. “I just don’t wanna mess up again—and don’t say anything, okay?” he added quickly. I gave a look of warning, because I was most certainly going to say something if he ever indicated that our pizza lunches had been his mess-up. “I know I didn’t technically do anything wrong,” he told me. “But I didn’t take Daddy’s and Cameron’s worries seriously either, and I should have. I was just dumb. I was in denial, because I don’t ever want there to be anything wrong with you.”

Christ, my darling boy. It was so easy to forget that he⁠—

Okay, we were sitting too far apart, so I pulled out the chair next to me and asked him to sit with me.

As soon as he was seated, I gathered his hands in mine and kissed his knuckles.

“You’re right—you didn’t do anything wrong,” I murmured. “Not a damn thing. And, Noa, it’s…” I sighed. “You weren’t dumb either. You merely trusted your partner to tell you what he could handle.” I touched his cheek, and he leaned into my palm. “Sometimes, I forget that you interpret things differently when you’re in your Little space.”

How many times had I jokingly poked fun at Cam’s and KC’s concerns? I’d done it to dismiss the warning signs and to make Noa laugh.

He chewed on his lip and knitted his brows together. “What do you mean?”

“Well, you… When you’re in your Little space, your mind is more open,” I explained, hoping I made sense. Hoping he could relate. “Your filters are down, and it can be more difficult to catch underlying meanings in tone and expressions. If, for instance, I say something sarcastically or jokingly, you sometimes take it literally.”

He nodded slowly. “That sounds about right. I should work on⁠—”

“No.” I just had to get that out there right away, because I spotted our waiter arriving with our drinks. Either way, there was absolutely nothing for him to work on.

I put a polite smile on my face and made quick work of approving the wine, wanting my privacy back.

Then I took another sip of my wine because it was surprisingly delicious. I’d have to ask for the name of it later.

“There’s nothing for you to work on,” I said when we were alone again. “I’m the one who needs to watch what I say when you’re in a more vulnerable state.” Let’s face it, his dynamic with KC and, hell, all of us, was very fluid but damn near twenty-four seven. I should fucking understand by now that Noa picked up words more so than meaning. “The whole idea of you being our Little is that Daddy and I can make your world a brighter place,” I murmured. “A place that’s easier to understand, and one that has more cushion than vanilla reality.”

In the blink of an eye, Noa turned uncharacteristically bashful and hugged my arm.

“But you do,” he mumbled. “Every day.”

I kissed the top of his head and cupped his cheek.

“More cushion,” he whispered, seemingly to himself. “I loved all of those words, Uncle Lucian.”

I smiled. “Good. I meant each one. But do you understand what I mean, darling? You’ve done nothing wrong in my…my health crisis, or whatever I should call it. Nothing wrong whatsoever. You’re supposed to be able to trust me when I say something, and I want nothing more than for us to reach that place again.”

He peered up at me, his expression so open and beautiful.

“I was scared at first,” he admitted. “I asked Daddy about everything behind your back, but it’s gotten better.”

I knew what he meant. I’d caught some of those behind-my-back questions because our boy couldn’t whisper in those moments to save his life.

“I know what to Google now,” he finished with a grin. “Sugar and salt, bad. Broccoli, good.”

I rumbled a low laugh and gave him a smooch. “What a relief. All the broccoli I can eat.”

“So much of it,” he giggled. “But—” He took a breath and set the humor aside. “Cameron gave me a good rule. He said that once your blood pressure is normal again, it’s okay to be sneaky sometimes, and when I asked him to specify, he said once a week for secret sneakery.”

Secret sneakery.

I liked that term.

I liked that rule too.

“Something to look forward to, then.” I loosened his tie a little. “When I’ve improved more, we’ll have a secret sneakery date once a week.”

He beamed.

Our food arrived not long after, and I was happier than ever I’d asked him out tonight. We needed this moment to ourselves, and I made a mental note to make it a more frequent habit. Even if it included broccoli.

We remained seated next to each other and lost the next few moments in tasting our fantastic food. The dumplings were incredible, the chicken bao sliders were a new experience, the spicy miso soup with ramen was great—Noa and I decided to recommend it to River and Shay—but my favorite was probably the tempura vegetables and duck.

“Try this one, darling.” I pinched a piece of duck between my chopsticks, dipped it in the glaze, and extended the morsel to Noa.

He closed his mouth around it and lit up. “Oh my gosh.”

“Right? We should bring Daddy and Cam here one night.”

“We gotta!” He nodded quickly and moved the bowl of soup closer to him.

No matter the precautions he took, Noa couldn’t eat soup without spilling or having some dribble down his chin.

I smiled and tucked his napkin into his shirt.

“Oops.” He wiped his mouth…with the cuff of his shirt. “Anyway. About Cameron—when are you gonna ask him to marry you?”

And there we go. I’d spent at least two damn hours before dinner thinking about the best way to bring it up, and Noa simply put it out there for me.

I exhaled a chuckle and shook my head.

I should’ve fucking known.

“That’s actually the reason I mentioned earlier,” I admitted. Partly, anyway.

He stopped eating and glanced at me curiously.

“I wanted you to know that I…” I cleared my throat. Fuck, I felt oddly nervous all of a sudden. I wasn’t used to that, though I was sure I’d feel it again on Tuesday. “I plan on asking him on Monday, but I want your stamp of approval first.”

One of the corners of his mouth tugged upward. “Are you asking me for my blessing, Uncle Loosh?”

Oh, for heaven’s sake. That name needed to die.

“I’m asking you to be okay with it.” I dabbed my own napkin over his chin. “You and Cam have your own special bond, and⁠—”

“I’m gonna stop you right there, Sir,” he said. “I will always love him—and what we have—and without downplaying any of our dynamics, you two gotta do this. I mean, it’s right up your traditional alley. He’s been doodling Leroux after his name in his proverbial notebook since he met you.”

I let out a breath, allowing the relief—and mirth—to wash over me.

“I more than approve,” he said. “Also, can you have fireworks at your wedding? I love fireworks.”

I chuckled, feeling a bit dazed, and took a swig of my wine.

It felt incredible to have that out of the way, but we weren’t done yet. It was too soon for a discussion about fireworks, which, regardless, would end with him pouting and calling the wedding boring.

“Before we start planning, Cam has to say yes,” I replied. “I also want your personal thoughts on marriage.”

It was comical how quickly he scrunched up his face.

Sweet boy.

He truly was a lot like KC.

“Um…can’t it be enough that I say I’m very, very, very happy for you and Cameron?” he asked, visibly hopeful I’d be satisfied with that.

I smirked faintly and shifted in my seat to face him a bit more. “I’m asking for a reason, pet.”

He eyed me with a pinch of wariness and crammed an entire slider into his mouth.

My God, it took all my effort not to laugh. He was just too adorable.

“It’ff unnetheffary in my world,” he said with his mouth full. He swallowed eventually. “Like, the whole thing…? I don’t care about it. It’s silly to me. But…” He wiped his hands on his legs this time. It seemed he’d wipe them anywhere but on the napkin. “It could be because I already have that extra thing that ties me to KC. We share a name. I love belonging to him that way—like I’m his.”

I smiled. Perfect explanation.

“We’re gonna get married one day,” he continued frankly. “We’ve talked about an adrenaline-induced spectacle. But the act itself is for legal reasons. Daddy says it’s a shortcut to better benefits and stuff, and I very much like shortcuts. And it’s not like I’m gonna complain. I don’t have any bad thoughts about marriage, just…” He shrugged.

I understood. Marriage simply didn’t exist in his world when it came to showing love and belonging.

“What about the meaning behind it?” I wondered. “It doesn’t have to be marriage, you know. It can be a collaring or…” Here goes. “An engagement? Wearing a ring that showcases a certain status?”

He pondered that for a moment.

“Daddy and I decided that if or when we get married, we’re gonna do tattoos,” he mentioned. “That’s probably mostly for my sake. I like cock rings, not wedding rings.”

Thank fuck I didn’t have food or wine in my mouth, because the couple at the table in front of us would’ve had to fish it out of their hair.

Jesus Christ.

Noa snickered, most likely in satisfaction at being able to shock me. I wasn’t that easy anymore.

“I mean it, though,” he chuckled. “I love being marked by my Owners, and a tattoo would definitely be permanent. Rings get in the way of primal fun.”

That was one way of looking at it.

No matter—it was time to move on. I’d gotten the gist anyway. Noa definitely liked the symbolism—even if it looked different—and that was what I was getting at.

“The reason I ask all this,” I said, gathering his hand in mine, “is because I would like to steal Colt and Lucas’s engagement idea and ask KC to be engaged to me forever.”

At long last, I’d stunned Noa. His mouth fell open, and his eyebrows crawled higher.

A ball of nerves tightened my stomach, and I felt the need to push forward.

“I have to add three things,” I told him. “One, this will not happen if you’re the slightest bit uncomfortable—and two, if it makes you feel left out. Which brings me to number three—I don’t want you to think I don’t want a special symbol for what you and I share.”

His expression changed a little, and I could tell he’d gotten stuck on the last thing I’d said.

“Are we keeping score or something?” he asked. “All this ritualistic stuff doesn’t make anything more or less special to me, Lucian. I won’t feel left out… What you and I have is already awesome.” He paused. “Now, if you’re willing to get a tattoo with me, let’s fucking go. Mister Sloan is a tattoo artist, you know.”

“Let’s…let’s wait-list that one,” I said, sounding like a stuttering fool.

He smirked, but it was a soft, affectionate smirk. “Go ask my Daddy for a lifetime engagement. He loves you so much. I know he’ll say yes, and he should.”

Fuck. Sometimes, this little boy could shell out emotional torture as if he was getting paid to do it. My eyes smarted a little; I couldn’t help it. Those words had struck me as hard as the time he’d given me that bell for my birthday. The one where I could call on Cam to serve me. Inside the bell, Noa had engraved “His love will find freedom in your every call.”

“I love him too,” I murmured. “You and Cam have helped me realize just how much.”

KC too, of course. We had both had problems sharing our deepest thoughts and feelings over the years, but now… Christ, we were closing in on thirty years as best friends. And now he was more vocal. He let himself be vulnerable with me, and I couldn’t describe how that made me feel. Every fucking morning I woke up, I felt like I was falling deeper and deeper.

“That’s good.” Noa smiled impishly and touched my cheek. “You’re cute, Uncle Lucian.” The brat went for his soup again. “You’re also kind of a proposal whore.”

I barked out a laugh that was probably a little too loud for this romantic establishment, but I blamed Noa.

Who knew—maybe I’d get a tattoo with him one day. If I’d do it for one person, it would be him.

* * *

Day two

If it weren’t for Cam and Noa looking forward to the other islands we were visiting, I would’ve been very happy to skip them all.

Once we’d arrived in Nassau, the ship cleared out, and we suddenly had a pool area all to ourselves. Loungers for everyone, a big pool, that burger joint was approximately fifty feet away, same with a bar, and music. Not the best music, but the kind that Cam could break-dance too, and he was always a treat to watch.

He goofed off with the other subbies—some Sadists too—while KC and I sat on the edge of the pool with our legs in the water and frozen margaritas in our grasps. Drinks all around. Lucas was reading on his e-reader and sipping something with an umbrella, Walker was enjoying a large beer and a leathercraft magazine, and Archie and Greer were cuddled up reading the same book.

Greer had shaved before the cruise, whereas Colt had bought a mustache comb.

“Be nice to him!” Cam cried out. “It’s vacation!”

I grinned into my cup as Reese and Ash wrestled Shay closer to the pool, only to shove him in there.

“We’re nice as long as you are,” Reese replied pointedly. Though, not so much to Cam as to the others nearby. “If you notice that we get a little rougher…? Look in the mirror and ask yourself—have I been a good boy lately?”

Cam became puzzled, and I couldn’t blame him. He wasn’t involved in whatever the brats were planning.

“Well, have you?” Kit demanded, staring at Reese. “Have you been a good boy, Sir?”

KC laughed.

The chase was on, this time Reese and Colt against Kit. Poor boy didn’t stand a chance. And Corey didn’t want a chance; he was all too happy to yell, “Again, again!” when Sloan tossed him into the water.

The ongoing banter and that constant push and pull between brats and even brattier Tops would’ve exhausted me, but it was fun to watch.

“Lucian, aren’t you gonna swim?” Noa hollered from the other side of the pool.

I patted my thigh. “Not yet, darling! My trunks are still wet from my last dip.”

He made a fail signal sound, clearly disqualifying my answer.

Kingsley and Tate emerged with sundaes and aimed for a couple loungers in the sun, and I didn’t know who eye-fucked their desserts more, me or Kit. I was definitely ordering one of those later. I wanted mine with hot fudge.

I took a sip of my drink as KC slipped into the water and exchanged a nod with Colt.

Oh boy. I should return to my lounger. I had to talk to Ash at some point too. I needed a favor.

“All right, boys!” Colt called. “How about a friendly game of terrific Tops versus bratty bitches?”

“I object to those names, but yeah!” Corey cheered.

“Yeah, that sounds friendly,” Macklin drawled, swimming closer to the stairs. “I’m good.”

Reese and Ash immediately began making chicken noises.

Macklin glared at them, but the final push of his button was Walker standing up and declaring he was happy to join. Now, Macklin couldn’t very well decline. And that was my cue. I scooped up some water and splashed it on my chest and shoulders, then rose to my feet with my drink and KC’s empty cup.

“Oh, come on, Lucian!” Reese hollered. “We need you!”

“The hell you do,” I laughed. “Besides, I have a note from my parents.” I turned to him and pinched the edge of my trunks where I’d attached the pin Gael had kindly given me. “See? I’m stressed. You brats have fun.”

Each side did their best to recruit team members, with the brats arguing that they should be allowed extra participants since they were so “small and cute,” in their words.

I returned to my lounger and noticed River had set up camp on the one next to mine. He was reading a book on… I tilted my head to catch the title. Christ. War and geopolitics and the second Congo War. Talk about heavy. I preferred my Kindle library of Friedman, Hayek, and Duflo. I was currently very much enjoying the latter’s findings in third world microeconomies.

“We play by the same rules we use at home!” Colt announced. “Each team defends their side of the pool, and the opponent will try to slam the ball against the edge. No throwing when you score—your hand has to be on the ball.”

I let out a sigh of contentment and took a sip of my drink.

They’d chosen their teams. Greer had left the comfort of Archie’s arms, and he’d joined Reese, Colt, Walker, and Ash to defend their sadistic egos against Corey, Noa, Kit, Cam, Macklin, and Shay. So at least the boys had one extra player. It should even the field a bit.

“We play for braggin’ rights!” Colt said. “But losers gotta behave for the rest of the trip.”

I smirked, then noticed River was suddenly eyeing the boys.

“Any leads?” I asked.

He hummed and side-eyed me. “Between you and me?”

Come on.

He knew I was airtight.

“All right, my two cents,” he said quietly. “If Macklin joins a prank, we’re not talkin’ whoopee cushions and glitter-filled shoes. He puts thought into shit, and he’s patient.”

I inclined my head in agreement.

“Then we consider the size of their operation,” he continued. “We have a lotta brats involved—and not a single clue falls from their loose lips? Practically unheard of—even more so when you think about where we are. Their options are limited on a ship, and every brat has an Owner who’s gone through their luggage. If they snuck somethin’ on board, it’s tiny or digital.” He leaned a little closer to me. “Furthermore, they’re too relaxed. When Shay tries to pull a fast one, he’s either fidgety to a degree, or he’s territorial of a location he’s hidden somethin’ in.”

He was right. Noa, in particular, would have fretted much more if he had a responsibility to keep secret. Or an item, a prop, whatever. Yesterday and today, his biggest concern had been not using BDSM titles in public.

“So we can assume the little ones have no responsibility, perhaps only knowledge,” I deduced.

River shrugged and reached for his coffee. “Or there’s no prank at all.”

Was that what he believed?

“That’s your verdict?” I asked. And if it was, I would believe him. River Tenley was probably our most antisocial member, but nobody knew people better.

He took a swig of his coffee and mulled over his answer. “My verdict is that Macklin recruited a bunch of brats to act like somethin’s goin’ on. His goal is to show us that he can fuck with our heads.”

I’d say his two cents were worth much more.

I looked out over the pool, everybody having a great time, and figured…this was the journey they got their mental orgasms from. For as long as I had been active in the lifestyle, the risk of “something possibly going on” had been a greater drug than final results. Once a prank was revealed, there was a moment of celebration and cursing, but also a beat of deflation because the fun was over. Until someone planned something new.

I was confident that was why River hadn’t said anything. He was letting everything play out.

“There’s one thing, though,” he added with his brow furrowed. “I haven’t figured out Ash’s role in this.”

“What do you mean? Do you think he’s involved?”

“Not with the brats,” he explained, “but he should be Macklin’s target. It’s just—he hasn’t been around to see the false trails or anythin’. Far as I know, he’s close to oblivious that somethin’s goin’ on.”

That was true. Ash hadn’t been there for the events when the rest of us had become suspicious.

* * *

Day three

Cameron Jacobson

Spotting Archie leaving their lunch table, I hurried to finish my meal.

“I’m gonna catch Archie, Master.” I drained my juice glass and snatched one strawberry for the road. “I’ll see you later?”

“Of course—we’ll probably be at the pool,” Master replied. “Have fun, little pet.”

Oh, I would!

I kissed his cheek, rounded the table and kissed Daddy and Noa too, and then I scurried off. Through the crowded buffet area and toward the elevators.

I was so damn excited for Tate’s demo.

“Archie!” I called.

He turned around and smiled. “Hey, you.”

“Hey.” I came up next to him and popped the strawberry into my mouth. “Do you know if any Tops will be present?”

“Just Master Kingsley,” he replied. “Tate will demonstrate on him.”

Sexy.

We went up to our floor together, and we chitchatted about the day. And it’d been a lazy one! We were at sea today, so every dynamic was off on their own to explore the ship. Master, Daddy, Noa, and I had spent the morning at the rock-climbing wall, and both Daddy and Noa had been their usual fearless selves. Daddy had showcased his arm strength, which was pure porn, while his legs had been secured in a harness.

After that, we’d gotten our pool time. Sun, cocktails, snacks, and splashing around. I just loved cruises! I could live here.

We arrived at Master Kingsley and Tate’s room, and I knocked on the door.

I was actually thankful it was going to be a small demo. It would only be Tate, Macklin, Archie, Kit, and me. And if everything went well, Tate was going to schedule a bigger demo at Mclean.

Tate opened the door with a smile and welcomed us in.

“Hello, I wish to buy everything,” I started by saying. “Master told me to go nuts.”

Tate chuckled. “Don’t worry, I have plenty of candles. But I also have the recipe, you know. You’re more than welcome to it. It’s not like I’m setting up a business.”

I waved that off and entered their stateroom. Archie, on the other hand, declared himself a big tipper for recipes. In short, he wanted to buy it from Tate, who found Archie bonkers for that.

“What the fuck? I’ll just forward it to you, hon.”

“Absolutely not,” Archie replied firmly. “Here—Master gave me cash.” I saw him slip a bill into Tate’s hand. “Stop giving away your effort for free.”

I loved Archie. He could be so frugal, but in a way I really liked. He was all about bargains and coupons, until he stumbled across a small business owner or a hobby creator.

I walked over to Macklin and Kit, who were studying the candle spread on Tate and Master Kingsley’s bed.

“Hi, babe.” Macklin draped an arm around my shoulders, never taking his gaze off the candles. “If I’m not mistaken, Master Lucian likes woodsier scents.” He pointed at a cluster of six or seven tins.

I was so impressed with Tate’s handiwork. He’d put labels on each tin, and he was calling the line Made by the property of Master Kingsley.

“He does.” I nodded. “And…ohhhh.” I picked up a tin with the scent of fresh linen. “Nothing wrong with choosing my favorite scents too, right?”

To be honest, I didn’t have many preferences when it came to scents, whether it was for cleaning supplies or cologne. But few things beat the feeling of going to bed after you’d showered, and the sheets had come straight from the dryer.

“Okay, everyone, you can all pick out a candle, and then we’ll start the demo on the veranda,” Tate announced.

I was totally sticking with my fresh linen candle. The tin wasn’t big, maybe four ounces, so I wanted to stock up. Because I was not the crafty person Archie and Tate were. If you needed help with coding and computer analytics, I was your guy.

“I’m gonna go with raspberry-vanilla ’cause that sounds delicious,” Kit decided.

Sure, on a dessert. Maybe not on my Owner… Actually…

I shook my head quickly and followed the others outside.

Oh. Master Kingsley was there, wearing nothing but a towel, and Tate had evidently borrowed a massage table from the spa.

“Try not to gawk at my man too much,” Tate teased.

I grinned.

Master Kingsley chuckled under his breath and put out his cigarette.

“Honey, we make no promises.” Macklin was appreciating the view.

At least I tried to be subtle in my staring when Master Kingsley dropped the towel and got comfortable on the table. But man, he was hot. He hid sleek muscles and a bit of bulk underneath his hoodies and jeans. And that ass… It totally reminded me of Daddy’s! That was the ass of a man who knew physical labor or fierce training.

“All right, put me to sleep, baby,” Master Kingsley said. His face disappeared in that hole thing at the top, right next to three lit massage candles.

“Yes, Owner.” Tate faced us from the other side of the table. “On the tables behind you, you’ll find lighters and refreshments. Please get comfortable and light your candles.”

Oh, I’d missed the chairs. And the spread! Sliced fruit and ice water.

I sat down between Kit and Macklin and poured four glasses for us. I was thirsty.

Not to mention excited to massage Master later, ’cause his body was my ultimate crack.

Macklin munched on a piece of pineapple and lit his candle, and I followed suit.

“Okay, so first things first—the candle.” Tate held one up. “Whether you buy them or make them, you wanna make sure they have all natural, organic ingredients. I try to follow the rule, if I wouldn’t eat it, I wouldn’t put it on my body. Of course there are exceptions, but it’s a good rule of thumb for skincare products.”

I dug my phone out of my shorts to make a note. I liked that rule.

“These candles contain soy, coconut oil, rapeseed⁠—”

“Rapeseed,” Kit snickered.

I grinned to myself and shook my head.

Kit cleared his throat. “I forgot I don’t have my brat squad here. Sorry, go on. I’m cool.”

Tate and Macklin exchanged a smirk before Tate continued.

“…a little bit of shea butter and essential oils,” he finished. “I found heaps of different recipes online, and the trickiest part is getting the right texture and melting point. Obviously, the flame will turn the candle into liquid, but you don’t want the oils to set again once it’s on your skin.”

Right. In other words, I was definitely not going to make these myself. I’d buy them from Tate and possibly from Archie later. I was guessing Tate would have his hands full the moment their child was born.

Over the next few minutes, we watched and listened as Tate got ready to massage Master Kingsley. I took notes too. Double-check to make sure the melted oils weren’t too hot. Planning ahead was key. If you wanted to give your Master a body-worship session, the candle had to be lit in advance, because it took a while to produce enough oil.

Tate recommended half an hour, depending on the size of the candle.

“This is why I prefer the smaller tins, because it doesn’t take as long,” he said.

Clever, clever.

“Now, before anyone goes offering their Master a full massage, it’s best to know what you’re doing,” Tate went on. “I actually talked to Shay about this earlier, because he recently took a class in secret to surprise his Owners, and I cannot recommend that enough. I’m not a licensed massage therapist or anything—I’ve only taken a class on the basics.”

“No complaints from me,” Kingsley said through a yawn.

They were sweet together.

“Could this be used for pain play?” Macklin asked.

Tate pursed his lips, then shook his head. “I mean, technically…? But not really. The oils in massage candles don’t get that hot, especially not compared to some wax melts.”

Master and I did love wax play.

“I wanna say this is more suited for sensation play and body worship,” Tate said. “I think you can try for yourself now. Pick up your candles and carefully pour a few drops along your arms or the top of your hand.”

* * *

“And it felt amazing, Sir! I can’t wait to try it on you and Daddy. The oils are so soft and warm on your skin, and you rub it in just like any other massage oil. It’s possible I bought, like, fifteen candles.”

Master smiled and squeezed my hand. “Sounds like you had a wonderful time. I still feel bad I fell asleep earlier, though.”

Pish! Finding him asleep by the pool earlier had only made me happy, because he was using this vacation the way he should. To rest and relax. I’d rambled to Daddy instead, once we’d shifted an umbrella over Master’s lounger, and Daddy was looking forward to my massaging his legs after a long day at work.

“You’d scold me for apologizing for doing what I’m supposed to,” I noted.

He grinned faintly, his expression saying touché.

He drew me closer, and we fell into a comfortable silence on the promenade deck. Without any people around, I could walk here forever. We just had the low rush of the calm seas some thirteen floors below as company. And a billion stars.

A flood of serenity almost overwhelmed me, and I tugged Master over to the railing. He encased me from behind, and we looked out. And up. Right here and now, it felt like we were the only two people in the universe.

Okay, and the chef who’d made our dinner. I was so full.

Master seemed less eager to try every item in the buffet, which was included in our bookings, and more intent on visiting every upscale restaurant. He’d taken Noa to that Asian place, and now…we had just survived fine Italian dining.

He kissed the top of my head. “Are you looking forward to tomorrow?”

I nodded. “So much.” I’d sort of wanted to visit Nassau yesterday too, mostly because I’d never been. Daddy and Master claimed it was overrated, at least the part you had enough time to see on a cruise excursion, but they had traveled a lot more than I had. My only experience outside the country was a single trip to Mexico.

Tomorrow, though. Yeah. I’d seen countless gorgeous photos online from St. Thomas.

“Did we book any excursions for tomorrow?” I asked.

“No, we thought we could just stroll through town,” he murmured. “It’s quite lovely there.”

I turned around in his embrace and peered up at him.

He smiled and kissed me on the forehead. “My beautiful boy.”

He was one to talk. I couldn’t even find my words at the moment. His progress brought me so much relief that I could tear up at any moment’s notice. I felt stupid sometimes, but I guessed it was natural after having worried for so long.

Now I had all the faith again.

“I love you.”

He squeezed me to him tightly. “No more than I love you, Cam.”

Yuh-huh.

“Can I just say—I love the changes you’ve gone through.” He inched back and cupped my face in his hands. “I know you’ll always be my slave, but these past few weeks, I’ve found myself falling head over heels in love with this new, softer side of you. You’re much more relaxed—and you make KC so happy when you call him Daddy.”

I grinned bashfully and had half a mind to bury my face against his chest, and I didn’t know why. He was right; I had changed too.

“I like feeling a tad more like a Little,” I admitted.

“It suits you.” He dipped down and kissed me unhurriedly, and I slipped my hands up his chest and around his neck. “But promise me you’ll tell me if you need our structures to change⁠—”

“None of that.” I pressed myself closer, needing, needing, needing. “Even in my Little space, I’m your slave, Master. I always want to serve you first.”

He exhaled a curse and deepened the kiss.

He swept me away with seductive tongue-teasing, the taste of his dessert and brandy, his strong arms tightening around me. I shivered and wished we could be in bed, naked, far from everyone else, so he could take me over and over.

After a moment, he hummed and slowed down the kiss long before I was ready.

“Do you remember when you promised me your servitude for the rest of your life?” His voice was low and smooth, and I swallowed against the dryness in my throat. “You gave me your body, mind, and heart the day I gave you my collar.”

I nodded. Of course I remembered. It’d been an unforgettable day.

He closed the distance again. “I need to ask for one more thing,” he whispered against my lips.

Another violent shiver ran through me, this one with a warning bell. Not a bad one, just one that told me hey, heads up, something is happening. Nerves tightened my stomach, and I wondered…I hoped…

“Um…what, Master?” I mumbled.

Was he going to⁠—

“Your hand in marriage.”

He freaking went there! A quick burst of shock tore through me, and my eyes welled up. Holy fuck, holy fuck. He was proposing.

He gathered my hands along his chest. “Make me the luckiest Owner on earth and marry me, little pet.”

Oh my God and fuck me.

I nodded jerkily, emotions exploding within me, and I threw my arms around his neck again. I couldn’t fucking believe it! I mean, I could—we’d talked about it before, and I had hinted—gah, whatever! So much had transpired since then, and now it was happening. He’d proposed to me!

“Is that a yes, darling?”

Right, I should answer.

“Yeah,” I croaked. “I want that so much. Yes.”

He hugged me so hard that I almost lost my breath, and I couldn’t care less. But then he went rigid and whispered a curse, causing confusion to take over. What was wrong?!

“I’m such an idiot,” he muttered and released me. “I forgot to go down on one knee. I had it planned and everything.”

Oh.

I choked on a laugh, too overwhelmed to come up with anything to say or, hell, a coherent thought.

Before I knew it, he was down on one knee before me, and he retrieved a ring box from his pocket. And the look in his eyes screamed of devotion—and then a little amusement too.

“Take two,” he said, and I chuckled. “Will you marry me, Cam?”

“Yes.” I smiled so widely that my cheeks hurt.

He rose to his feet in a swift, smooth motion and kissed me hard. Christ, I was shaking. My skin prickled and fucking tingled, and my breaths came out a little choppier. I couldn’t help it. I’d wanted this day to come for so long!

Those words could sound empty, given the short time we’d been together, but in my mind, I’d been his for over two years.

Now I was going to marry him.

I sniffled and could barely stand still. I wanted to jump around and shout, as if I were Noa.

“Let me get a ring on your finger.” He gave me one more kiss, then eased away to reveal the ring. Two rings! Oh, that made me even more excited. He was going to wear one right away too! I didn’t know the custom, to be honest. I’d heard of friends skipping rings until they got married, and I’d heard of people wearing two rings. Or no rings at all.

My vision blurred too much as he slipped the gold band onto my ring finger, and I had to sniffle again.

“I might burst,” I said thickly. “I’m so happy, Owner.”

“If you’re half as happy as I am…” He flexed his fingers once his own ring was on too, and I’d never seen anything so hot. “I thought we could add an inscription before our wedding day.”

I nodded. I liked that a lot. “I can come up with yours, and you could come up with mine?”

He smiled and cupped my cheek. “That’s what we’ll do. Come here.” He caught me in a bear hug again.

It felt like months’ worth of tension finally drained out of me, and I could no longer hold back the tears. My mind brimmed with peacefulness and hope and relief and… Fuck. I couldn’t think straight.

Daddy and Noa.

Oh crap.

Too soon, man! Could I not have this moment with Master alone? Did I have to love Daddy and Noa so much that I immediately had to include them in my thoughts? Blah!

Evidently, that was the case. Because I did love them that much, and I didn’t want anyone left behind or any unanswered questions. Plus, Noa and I had talked a lot about this, and I wasn’t the only one who’d evolved. Nor was it all about Master’s health changes. It was about them, as the men they were—KC and Lucian. Their past together, their journey, and now, their future.

“Have you talked to Noa and Daddy, Sir?” I murmured.

“Hmm? You mean about my proposing?”

I nodded and glanced up at him.

“Of course I have.” He pressed soft kisses to my cheeks, my nose, and my forehead, drawing out a smile from me. “That was partly why I asked Noa to dinner the other day.”

Ohhh. Sneaky!

It was a reminder that Noa could keep a secret sometimes.

“They’re both very happy for us,” he promised.

Then we were halfway there. I brushed my fingers over his sun-kissed vacation stubble, and I had to ask⁠—

“I do need your blessing for one thing, though.” He cleared his throat and rested his forehead to mine. “Noa gave me his, but it’s important to me that you’re wholeheartedly okay with it.”

I drew in a breath, having a feeling he was about to beat me to my concern.

“As I told Noa,” he went on quietly, “I’d like to borrow Colt and Lucas’s idea and ask KC for a lifetime engagement.”

An automatic snicker fell from my lips, and I slapped a hand to my mouth. Crap! It hadn’t been my intention to freaking laugh in his face. This was just so poetic—that we were on the same page. The only thing missing was finishing each other’s thoughts!

Master’s forehead creased with confusion. “Is that…funny?”

“No,” I laughed. I was losing my mind. “I’m sorry—it was… Sorry, my mind was just already there, and the moment you said Colt and Lucas, I knew what you were going to say.” I grinned and kissed him quickly. Then I let out a breath and said my next piece with all the conviction I felt. “I love the idea, Lucian. You and KC belong together too.”

He wasn’t used to hearing his name coming from me; I could tell by his expression, but I hoped he knew why I’d done it. Because this came from me, as his partner, as his slave, as his equal, and as his friend.

“Thank you.” He kissed me softly. “Now, get back to calling me Owner.”

“Yes, Owner.” I grinned against his lips. “What about Owner fiancé?”

“Oh.” He thought about it. “It doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, but I love it anyway. I’ll allow it till the day you can call me Owner husband.”

I chuckled and kissed him once more.

Husband. Fuck yeah. That was a good shiver.

“By the way,” he said. “Daddy and Noa are having a sleepover slash game night with Ash in his room, so we have ours all to ourselves.”

Just when I thought I couldn’t love him more!

* * *

Day four

Noa Hayles

Did someone leave?

The distinct sound of the door clicking shut woke me up, and I pushed myself off my pillow and blinked. And squinted. Ugh. Disoriented much?! Someone had opened the blinds, and the sun was pouring in from the balcony.

I rubbed the heel of my hand over my eyes, then glanced around.

Oh right, we were in Ash’s room. Daddy and I had borrowed the second double bed so that Cameron and Uncle Lucian could get their engaged freak on in private.

Daddy and Ash were gone now, though.

I crawled out of bed and took in the destruction of the room.

“What in tarnation…”

Sheets, candy wrappers, and game stuff all over the place. We’d picked up three board games in one of the shops, and I vaguely remembered jumping on the little couch and tossing out Monopoly cards at two AM… Daddy and Ash had listened to ancient hard rock and sipped whiskey.

I shook my head and headed into the bathroom.

I was never having that many Yoo-hoos again!

* * *

After freshening up, I spent a few minutes tidying up in the room. Daddy and Ash should be back soon, right? I bet Daddy was working out. He liked having that out of the way first. Also, it was nearly nine AM, and we were supposed to go ashore around eleven.

When I was done, I went out onto the balcony in my undies and saw rolling green, mountains everywhere. Oh wow! So this was St. Thomas! We were slowly but surely moving closer to the port, I guessed. It was very gorgeous here. Sailboats and yachts shared the blue waters with us, and they looked tiny compared to us.

“Mornin’, brat. Should I be concerned you just came outta Ash’s room?”

I spun right and spotted the half-naked Tenley triad having breakfast, and it was a big spread! They must’ve ordered room service. Both their side tables had big trays filled with stuff. Muffins, juice, toast, omelet, pancakes, bacon, yogurt, fruit…

I snuck a little closer. It looked delicious.

“Did someone push his mute button?” Shay asked no one in particular.

I scratched the side of my bed head. “I was born without one. Sorry, no concern needed. Daddy and I had a wild game night with Ash, and I had one too many Yoo-hoos.”

“Heavy stuff.” River side-eyed me and bit into a triangle of toast. “You wanna eat?” He shifted his leg off an ottoman. “Sit.”

I wasn’t gonna say no. I was so hungry.

“Thank you muchly, Sir.” I sat down on the…whatever it was. All the veranda furniture was some kind of dark wicker, except it wasn’t wicker. It wasn’t wood or sticks; it was plastic or who gives a shit. “I don’t know where Ash went, but I think Daddy’s working out.”

“And they left you to your own devices?” Reese asked, pouring me a glass of juice.

“Daddy’s a high-risk gambler,” I replied frankly. “Thank you.” I accepted the juice and sipped it while I perused the deliciousness. Oh, I needed a fluffy pancake. I grabbed one and bit into it. Perfect. “So how are you this fine morning?”

“We’re great,” Reese replied with a smile. “Lookin’ forward to our excursion.”

“Oh! Which one did you book?” I hadn’t been impressed by the selection for St. Thomas, nor had Daddy, but we were excited for tomorrow! We were renting Jet-Skis in St. Croix.

“We’re goin’ deep-sea fishin’,” Reese answered. “We didn’t go through the cruise line, though. I rented a boat with a local vendor.”

So that they could speed off on their own. I totally would’ve done that too. Guides were boring! They were all about safety this and safety that.

Snooze.

“That sounds awesome.” I bit another chunk off my pancake and reached for half a kiwi. “Daddy and I are renting Jet-Skis tomorrow. I can’t wait.”

“But you’ll be at the beach later, right?” Shay asked pointedly.

I nodded. I hadn’t forgotten. I wouldn’t miss it! All the Tops were gonna be like, ohhhh, you got us good, brats!

River cleared his throat and sipped from his coffee. “St. Croix should be fun.”

“I don’t know about fun—we haven’t planned anythin’,” Reese said.

River shrugged. “They have good beaches and relics from the pirate days.”

“But we do have plans,” Shay pointed out. “Macklin and Tate are arranging a beach party.”

“I meant excursion-wise, baby,” Reese explained. “Don’t worry, we won’t miss the party.”

They didn’t suspect anything, did they? They didn’t exchange any furtive glances or nothing, so I hoped they were oblivious. At least about the date we’d picked. In general, they were hella suspicious! And that was the whole point.

I borrowed Shay’s spoon to get cracking on my kiwi, and it was super juicy and sweet.

Reese eyed the fruit platter and picked a strawberry, and he pulled out the fruit pick from it and held it up. A pink, plastic stick with a needle-sharp tip. “This could make a fine weapon. Maybe not in the old pirate days but for a modern-day Sadist.”

Shay went still, and I cursed myself for immediately seeking out his gaze. Macklin had warned me that those were dead giveaways!

River hummed and went for a pineapple chunk instead. That one had a blue fruit pick, and he inspected it closely.

“Anythin’ can be a weapon.” He nodded at the breakfast spread. “The ice in the juice. The utensils. And this…” He grabbed the little cup of honey or syrup and held up the wooden honey dipper as the thick, golden syrup trickled back down into the cup. “This one in particular. The honey dipper can be lethal.”

I scrunched my nose. How was that thing going to be lethal? At most, I’d get a sticky boop on the nose.

“Yeah, okay, Green Mohawk. Sure.” I pointed to a yogurt cup. “May I have one of those?” There were only three, so didn’t want to assume.

“Go for it.” River handed it to me. Zero reaction to my mohawk nickname? Lame!

“Thanks!” I dropped a few blueberries into the yogurt, and River held up the honey in silent offering. I narrowed my eyes and held the yogurt away from him. “Isn’t it plain honey?”

“Of course it is,” he replied. “It’s the dipper you should fear.”

How?! How could that thing be dangerous? He had to be messing with me!

I glanced at Reese, and he was no help. He was spreading butter on his toast. Shay, then? Shay! Shay was watching us while chewing on a strip of bacon. The frustrating part was that aside from a pinch of amusement in his eyes, I couldn’t tell what was happening.

“Then again…it’s just a damn honey dipper,” River said. “What could I have done with it?”

I bit my lip, hesitating. Even though I had logic screaming at me that he was just messing around, there was always that what-if. And what he’d said raised another option. Maybe it wasn’t the dipper itself, because it was clearly harmless, but rather he could’ve done something with it? Or to it?

“Lemme put it this way,” River went on. “If you’ve been a good boy, you probably have nothin’ to fear.”

That wasn’t helpful at all!

Before I could respond, a door opened behind us, and I spun around on my not-wicker stool and saw Ash coming out from his room. Oh—and Daddy! He was back! And he was in his workout clothes, meaning we needed access to our own room soon so he could shower. Our bathroom was much roomier.

“Daddy, save me!” I got to my feet and set down my yogurt. “There’s a slight chance River docked with the honey dipper!”

Did he swoop in to rescue me? Noooo. He just stood there and blinked.

Un-fucking-helpful.

* * *

Something was wrong with Daddy, and I couldn’t let it go. If he felt down, I felt down, and I’d just gotten out of my depressive hellhole after all the crap with my mom.

I winced to myself. Nope, didn’t wanna think about it too much. It was going to be one of those situations that healed over time. Right now, it was raw, and I was counting on distractions. But honestly, it did feel good I wasn’t as hurt anymore; I was mostly angry with her. On a bad night, I could go over past conversations with her, analyze them until I fell into a fit, and then I slept poorly.

Either way, Daddy was down, and I had to fix it. His mood had sort of snuck up on me; I’d been there when he’d said his workout hadn’t felt great, so I’d assumed he was cranky about that. It happened sometimes, and those were the days he needed to keep his muscle relaxers nearby. He also had to rely more on his chair.

Then Cameron and Uncle Lucian had emerged, and everyone had congratulated them on their engagement. Including Daddy. He’d lit up and hugged and kissed them hard. Yada-yada-yada, we’d disembarked for a stroll through Charlotte Amalie, and Daddy had encouraged Uncle Lucian and Cameron to go off on their own a bit. Maybe because he knew I wanted to search for Squishmallows and iguanas. Because the latter were all over the place! I saw some real big beauties resting on the rocks next to the port, and we’d been warned that they often fell down on people from the palm trees. So I had to find palm trees too and see if that could happen to me.

So we saw the newly engaged couple off. They’d decided to go to some pirate museum, and maybe that wasn’t what I would’ve chosen if I looked that sickeningly in love…? They should be canoodling on the ship or setting up camp at a romantic waterfront restaurant.

Whatever. In between those little happenings, I kept noticing that Daddy’s mood was tanking, and he wasn’t great at faking it.

Somewhere on the main street, surrounded by beeping cars and colorful buildings, where we were looking for the next toy store, we encountered Colt, Kit, and Mr. West. They asked if we wanted to join them on one of those boat rides where the bottom was made of glass, and I politely declined for both of us, because I couldn’t take it any longer.

Daddy and I had to talk. He couldn’t go through the motions like that and claim he was “just tired.”

No, Sir. I wasn’t buying it.

Remembering we’d passed an alley with cozy restaurants not far back, I turned Daddy’s wheelchair around and announced we needed nachos. Which wasn’t a lie. When you had bought a Squish to go with the one Daddy had already given you—and neon-green sunglasses!—and it was hot out, nachos and an ice-cold drink were mandatory.

Once we’d crossed the street, Daddy said, “I can do this myself, freckles.”

I chewed on the inside of my cheek and let go of the chair. “Sorry.”

I’d only wanted to help.

I walked beside him instead, and he glanced up at me with a tired expression.

“No, I’m sorry. I’m not the best company today.”

“You’re always the best company,” I corrected. He could be wrong sometimes.

He sighed and slowed down for the next crossing. “You don’t have to say that, Noa. Just like you don’t have to tell the other boys I’m the strongest Daddy out there.”

Huh? I knitted my brows together, having no clue what he was talking about.

I sidestepped so a family with a bunch of kids could walk by. The sidewalk was sort of narrow and uneven, plus downhill at the moment. But I wasn’t going to help Daddy. He knew how to handle the chair and the brakes and…everything. Whatever, whatever.

“Have I said that?” I asked.

“Yesterday, after we climbed the rock wall,” he confirmed. “Greer and his family arrived when we were leaving, and you bragged about how I was the strongest Daddy on the planet because I’d reached the top of the wall.”

But he had! With only his arm strength! Excuse me for being mind-blown.

Ugh, the traffic noise and heat got to me, and I couldn’t think properly when the matter was this important, because something was clearly very wrong. I needed more than the semblance of privacy that an alleyway restaurant could offer, so I scurried ahead and peered down the first alley I saw. Okay, no good. It was full of dumpsters. But the next! It was almost empty!

“We’re going in here,” I said.

My stomach felt off, like it had a rock of worry lodged in it. I hated that.

Daddy followed me, probably knowing we had to straighten this out, and when I glanced back at him, I felt the familiar shift. The moment Daddy became KC in my head. It was sometimes necessary, even though I wasn’t a fan. All my Little antics took a hike, and I had to get serious.

I scratched the side of my head and came to a stop.

He stopped too, a couple feet away, and kept his stare on his lap.

I tucked my sunglasses into the neckline of my tee. “That’s something we say sometimes, you know. We compete playfully about whose Daddy’s the strongest. It’s not serious.”

He nodded once. “I understand that.”

“Then why…?”

“Because it gets to me, sweetheart.” He finally lifted his gaze, and I detested the pain I saw there. “Most of the time, I’m perfectly happy, but I have shitty days like everyone else, and…” He blew out a breath. “I hate that I will never be able to chase you around or act like the other Tops when they throw their Littles over their shoulders and clown off. Fuck, I can’t even go down the stairs⁠—”

“Okay, stop.” I felt my eyes widen, and hurt slashed through me, mostly because I felt his pain. I felt the anguish he carried, and it made my eyes burn.

He clenched his jaw. “I’m not in the running to be the strongest Daddy, even on playful terms, Noa.”

I sniffled and shook my head stubbornly. “You’re wrong.”

“I’m not⁠—”

“Yes, you fucking are!” I whisper-shouted, exploding with anger. It swirled up like a raging storm within me, and I got so damn mad. He hadn’t seen it coming either. He was caught off guard by my outburst, even though his own signature Hayles stubbornness slipped a mask of composure onto his face. “Right now, you’re saying some really mean things about the most important person in the world to me, and it’s pissing me off,” I gritted out. “Do you honestly think I measure strength in how many brats you can run down the hill with over your shoulder?”

“Of course not, but you have to admit everything with me is goddamn complicated. I can’t book an excursion without asking if there’s a ramp⁠—”

“My question was rhetorical,” I snapped. “I don’t give a flying fuck about the extra measures we take to make your next step comfortable. Lifts, canes, chairs, braces, making sure an establishment is wheelchair-friendly—whatever the fuck! I don’t care, and I sure as hell don’t think it makes you complicated.” I took a quick breath, too fired up to even try to calm down. “It sucks—it sucks so fucking hard—that you got caught in that avalanche, but there’s a big difference between you and me, KC. You seem to think the accident weakened you, whereas I see the fact that you survived it makes you stronger.”

He looked like I’d just slapped him, but I wasn’t done.

“I’m not placating you when I call you strong or when I joke around with my friends,” I told him. “I’m just seeing all the shit you have to go through on a daily basis that everyone else takes for granted. Trust me, KC, I see everything. I see how you think ahead at every turn. I see how you plan your errands according to how much you can manage. I see how you push yourself every single day—you never give up, you never skip a workout session, your self-discipline is made of fucking iron.” I drew another breath, the steam slowly leaving me. Maybe him too. He looked away from me, screwed his eyes shut, and pinched the bridge of his nose. “It’s not pity, it’s not placation, it’s not a damn participation trophy. I have empathy, and I have admiration. I’m in fucking awe of you, KC. Don’t you dare take that away from me.”

My KC wasn’t a crier, so when he covered his eyes with his hand and his shoulders trembled, it shot panic straight through me. Holy fuck, I’d gone too far! Before I knew it, I’d scrambled up on his lap, and I locked my arms around him.

“Please don’t cry, please don’t cry, I’m sorry,” I rambled, getting upset all over again. “Please don’t cry.”

He shook his head and wrapped his arms around me in a tight grip. “You said nothing wrong, freckles,” he croaked. “I just don’t know what the fuck I’d do without you.”

Oh. Great. Now I became weepy from sheer relief, and I couldn’t take this much longer. Let the emotional torture end, dammit!

I sniffled and whimpered. “You’d probably lead a very boring life.”

He let out a tearful chuckle and tightened his hold on me. “You got that right.”

I buried my face against his neck and tried to take a steadying breath. Being angry wasn’t my favorite, so to speak. I couldn’t control myself then. And it exhausted me afterward.

“Christ…” He exhaled and pressed a kiss to my neck. I didn’t like feeling the dampness of tears on his cheeks. “When you said that about the accident and how surviving it made me stronger, I thought I was going to lose it completely.”

I couldn’t speak. I could only hug him harder and breathe through the rest of the moment—but I hoped the danger had passed. I’d said some stuff that made him feel better, right?

“I can’t live without your perspective in my life, baby.”

Good, ’cause he was stuck with me.

I started peppering his face with kisses because that always worked when I needed him to smile.

“You’re allowed to have bad days,” I said in between sniffly pecks, “but I’m also allowed to go off on you until you’re a good Daddy again.”

He chuckled thickly and cupped my face in his hands. “That’s a fair deal.”

It worked! His eyes were a little red, but he was smiling!

“I love you so much, Noa.”

“I love you too.” I cupped as face as well, only I smushed his stubbly cheeks together, ’cause that was funny. “Cutie patootie.”

“Cute?” he retorted. “I’m sexy as fuck.”

I grinned so wide. “Especially now.”

He crossed his eyes and stuck out his tongue, making me giggle.

He was so funny!

“When we get married, we should make funny faces in all the pictures,” I laughed.

He grinned and kissed my nose. “It’ll be even funnier if we make faces in Lucian and Cam’s wedding photos.”

Oh my gosh, hysterical! “They will be so mad! I can picture Uncle Lucian giving us that look that says his patience is running thin.”

Daddy chuckled. “Well, it’s not our fault they’re probably gonna host a boring, super-romantic fairy-tale wedding. I mean, where’re the explosions? The alligators?”

“Exactly!” I cried out. “Now we’re talkin’. Weddings should be fun.”

He nodded firmly, totally on my side.

I booped his nose. “We’ll show ’em how it’s done one day.”

“Absofuckinglutely.”

* * *

When we returned to the port, I was what one might call smug as a chipmunk in a rug! Because yeah, Daddy had spoiled me, and we rolled up on the big ramp with two Squishmallows, tons of souvenirs, and our bellies filled with nachos, ice cream, and candy. I’d even gotten something for Nut’s terrarium! A chunk of wood.

I liked wood.

“Tell me if I’m too heavy, Daddy,” I said. I was leaning back a little and had my legs over the armrest so he could see properly, but I wasn’t exactly featherlight.

“Nonsense. You’re not leaving my lap anytime soon.”

Okeydoke!

I sucked on my lollipop as Daddy maneuvered us to the elevators, and that was where we met up with some of the others. Tate and Master Kingsley had enjoyed a beach day. River, Reese, and Shay had returned from their deep-sea fishing even more tanned than before.

“And I see your Daddy spoiled you rotten, Noa,” Reese said as we entered the elevator together.

Good thing it was only us here. Not that I was sure Reese would care either way.

“Yup!” I grinned around my lollipop.

“He earned it.” Daddy kissed my shoulder.

“You sure, buddy?” Reese hugged Shay to him and nipped at his jaw. “’Cause I hear we’re on a cruise with a bunch of hell-raisers.”

This time, my immediate sneak peek went to River, and I found him watching me subtly. He didn’t avert his gaze, so maybe… Or! Or! Or he maintained eye contact because breaking it would be a clue? Gah, this level of mindfucking wasn’t my forte.

“I’m innocent,” Shay said casually.

I bit into my lollipop and crunched up the silence good and proper.

What to do, what to do.

I needed to talk to Macklin. That’s what I needed to do. He was running this show.

* * *

After a much-needed siesta, Cameron and I went to get fries, because fries were delicious, and the dipping sauce they poured over them was to die for.

On the way back through the corridors, I had to express my happiness for Cameron too. I mean, we’d been surrounded by people earlier, and I shone the brightest when I was alone under the spotlight.

“Of course you’re gonna be my best man, baby.” He chuckled and kissed my cheek.

“Good!” Because that meant I got to plan his bachelor party! I stuck a fry into my mouth and nodded in satisfaction. “And you’re absolutely certain you want that thing—” I waved at his hand “—and not a cock ring?”

I just felt it was a missed opportunity.

Cameron grinned and shook his head. “I’m sure. But, you know, if you wanna give me a cock ring anyway, I won’t say no.”

This was why he was my boyfriend. He said awesome things like that.

“I gotchu, boo.” I slowed down as we got closer to Master Walker and Macklin’s room. “You go ahead and give the food to the bosses. I gotta ask Master Walker something.”

Cameron quirked a brow but knew when to keep his cute mouth shut. He did not want to get involved. In addition, I’d been super smart, because he had fewer suspicions now. Had I said Macklin instead, he would’ve assumed I was up to no good.

“Okay, just hurry,” he said.

I waited till he’d disappeared into our room before I knocked on Macklin’s door.

I was in luck! He opened it, having clearly just stepped out of the shower. He was only wearing a towel.

“Ten points.” I let my gaze travel from south to north, and I met his smirk. “Hi. I have a suggestion—oh. Are you alone?”

He poked his head out and checked the corridor. “For now. Master will be back in a few. What’s up?”

I picked another sauce-drenched fry to munch on. “In my professional opinion, I think we should postpone the big mindfuck reveal till after we get home.”

That made him frown. “Why? Have you heard anything?”

Boy, had I.

“I’m fairly certain River and maybe Reese know,” I replied.

Then I proceeded to tell him all the details, starting with breakfast this morning.

* * *

Day five

KC Hayles

I panted through gnashed teeth and managed to push myself up to lean back against the oven. The damn chair mocked me. I’d somehow tipped it over when I’d fallen, and I used all the strength I could muster to kick it away from me.

Wow. You pathetic fucking loser, you nudged it a foot away.

“Fuck.” I felt the crippling despair wash over me once more, and I covered my face with my hands.

Get it together, get it together, or…fucking die already.

Lucian couldn’t see me like this. He’d be home any moment.

He’d help me off the floor, make sure I was okay—which I fucking wasn’t—and then he’d berate me for trying to reach for the motherfucking coffee filters on my own instead of waiting for him.

I couldn’t take it anymore. I couldn’t. Four months of this bullshit. I should’ve died. They never should’ve dug me out of the snow. What was I good for? Fucking nothing. Daily rehab exhausted me, Lucian had to drive me back and forth, only to return to work after, and I’d turned his home upside down.

I couldn’t reach a damn thing, so Lucian had pulled everything from the cupboards. The microwave was sitting on the edge of the counter—same with the coffeemaker. Plates, glasses, all of it. The kitchen was a disaster.

And because the coffee filters happened to be a few inches out of reach, I was now on the goddamn floor bawling my eyes out.

I screamed. I fucking screamed. All the pain, all the hope, the grief, the bitterness… Except, no matter how much I screamed, I felt the same. I couldn’t get any of those hateful emotions out of me. They stayed. They clung to me every single day.

Thank God Noa couldn’t see me.

I’d questioned my decision to walk out of his life right up until I’d woken up in a hospital bed with doctors saying I’d probably never walk normally again.

Well. They hadn’t phrased themselves that way. Doctors could get away with “We don’t know yet” and “We will have to see how physical therapy goes.”

The moment I heard a door open, I sucked in a ragged breath and clenched my jaw. He was gonna see me. Fuck, fuck, fuck. Damn if I let him hear me sob like a baby again, though.

“KC?”

I coughed and cleared my throat. “Unless you brought home a fucking noose, just walk past the kitchen.”

The sound of keys and a…briefcase?…hitting the floor followed, and then Lucian barged in.

“Christ, what happened? Are you okay?”

“Do I look okay?” I snapped.

He let out a breath and hitched his hands under my armpits.

Humiliation crashed down on me as we struggled to get me upright. I had zero sensation left in my legs, except for those prickling tingles that grated on my nerves. Tears streamed down my face, and I finally grabbed on to the counter, making it easier for Lucian to lift me higher until I could lock my knees into place. Then he hurried to right the chair and bring it over to me.

“I told you we should’ve hired a nurse.” He helped me into the chair, and it just felt like I couldn’t reach another low.

Breathing heavily, unable to control my emotions, I threw him a glance and then looked away again. A fucking nurse. Because I couldn’t do shit on my own.

“The only thing I need is to fucking hang myself,” I said hoarsely.

“If you say that one more time,” he growled. A beat later, he was right in front of me, and he grabbed my face when I tried to wrench away. “No—you’re gonna fucking look at me, KC.”

I glared at him, no matter how blurry he became.

“This is temporary,” he implored. “You’re making progress⁠—”

“Get the fuck out,” I choked out. “I’ll never be okay. Don’t you fucking get that?”

That set him off. “You’re worth more than your goddamn legs, KC! I’m not saying you’ll be bungee jumping anytime soon—I’m saying you’re going to heal anyway. You’re gonna overcome these obstacles and find happiness despite all these new challenges.”

I wanted to hurl. He could speak as eloquently as he wanted; these weren’t new “challenges.” They were a death sentence. I was useless. I was a shell of a man.

The bastard kept holding my face in his hands, and when I blinked, I saw he had tears in his eyes too.

Goddammit.

“I’m not leaving your side,” he whispered, “and you’re not fucking allowed to leave mine. Okay? You’re not allowed. I need you. When you get your shit together, Noa needs you too. You’re going to get better.”

I coughed and drew a panicked breath as I was jerked from sleep, and I blinked in the darkness. I felt a hand—fuck. One of the lights flicked on, and I saw Lucian standing over me.

“Let’s go outside, love,” he whispered.

Christ, had I made any sounds?

Disoriented as fuck, I looked around us. Noa was asleep next to me. Cam too, in the other bed. Both looked so peaceful, hugging their squishy stuffies, and it brought me some relief.

Lucian helped me into a pair of sweats and hoisted me up, and he handed me my cane.

“Braces or chair?”

I tested my strength and shook my head. I was okay. Shaky but okay.

I followed him out onto the balcony and automatically expected a chill to hit me, but it was fairly warm and humid.

I took a deep breath and let it out slowly, feeling the images of my nightmare fading. Or the memories, rather.

We sat down next to each other, and Lucian lit up a smoke in the darkness. He’d brought out two sodas too.

“Did you hear me?” I had to clear my throat from sleep.

He shook his head and leaned back. “No… I woke up to go to the bathroom, and when I came back, I noticed you looked tense.” He shifted his chair closer to mine. “Nightmares have always paralyzed you.”

He had a point. When I was tossing and turning, everything was good. I’d even had to prove it. A couple years ago, Lucian had given me a smartwatch to analyze my sleeping patterns. And my results were better than his.

“Same nightmare as usual?” he asked.

I nodded with a dip of my chin. “The worst one.”

He grabbed my hand and threaded our fingers together.

“I reckon it’s the leftovers from yesterday.” I yawned and scrubbed a hand over my face. Fuck, yesterday had been brutal, but my boy had set me straight. He’d snapped me out of my spiral in the best damn way.

I’d told Lucian about it before dinner, so I was sure he wasn’t surprised I’d had a nightmare.

“Okay, one thing bothers me,” I admitted. “Noa thinks I’ve never given up.”

He took a drag from his smoke and furrowed his brow. “You haven’t.”

I shot him a look. Come on. No need to change history. He knew very well I’d fucking quit.

He blew the smoke skyward and shrugged. “Talking about giving up isn’t giving up, KC. If we counted every time we wanted to throw in the towel…” He trailed off.

I sighed, not satisfied, and looked out over the pitch-black ocean.

I couldn’t see the moon, so it had to be on the other side of the ship. There was a faint glow.

Were we even moving? Considering St. Thomas and St. Croix weren’t far apart, I supposed snail’s pace sufficed.

It was nice out here, though. Every deep breath settled the remnants of unease, allowing me to see how far I’d come.

The bad days would come and go, but I had three amazing partners who pulled me out of my funk.

They were my lifeline, all in their different ways.

Noa unleashed his filter-less anger and soothed my scars with the best sense of humor. He opened my eyes to a perspective I needed more than air.

Cam… Sweet Cam would fuss over me in the morning when he saw the tiredness under my eyes. He’d ask if everything was okay; Lucian would give him an abridged version, and then I’d have Cam waiting on me. Food, cuddles, coffee, sweet whispers.

I thought back on what Kingsley had told me about resetting a fractured bone that had healed wrong, and that was Noa. He had no problems getting his hands dirty. He dug right in there and repaired the damage. More than that, he forced me to see that I’d accomplished a lot on my own. He made me feel stronger. And he made me laugh. He could lift my entire soul out of the grave.

Cam was a Band-Aid and a nurse wrapped up in one. He never failed to make me feel ten feet tall.

Then there was Lucian.

I watched our hands and our intertwined fingers. One of them had a gold band now, and it looked ridiculously right.

He popped open his soda and took a swig.

Lucian couldn’t fix me, but he’d been there every step of the way. He’d been the best crutch a man could ask for. He still was. He’d held my hand, he’d comforted me, he’d guided me. He’d pushed me when I’d needed it. He’d been my family for almost thirty years.

I knew I’d promised him that he could handle whatever symbol we would wear for each other, and I wasn’t sure I could keep my word. It didn’t have to be now; it could be in a few weeks or several months, but one of these days, I wanted something like that. Like a ring or⁠—

“We should be engaged,” I blurted out as I thought of it. “The law can’t stop us there.”

Apparently that wasn’t a romantic idea, because Lucian frowned at me.

Fuck.

I shifted in my seat and rubbed the back of my neck.

“Maybe not should…” I muttered. “We could. It was just an idea. I’d obviously run it by Cam first.”

“Just an idea,” he grumbled under his breath. He put out his smoke in an old cup, then stood up. “Wait here. Motherfucker.”

What the fuck?

What’d happened? He’d just left me out here? And called me a motherfucker.

Thanks, asshole.

Romance in a traditional sense wasn’t really my jam. I was way more creative for a mindfuck scene or a punishment, but that didn’t mean I didn’t like it. So…couldn’t we go with, it’s the thought that counts?

The door opened again, and Lucian was back.

“What—”

“Oh, shut up,” he said. “You ruined a perfectly lovely occasion, but…” He sighed and walked over to me. “I suppose it’s one of the reasons I love you. Because around you, I can’t predict a damn thing.” He sat down next to me again and moved the chair to face me better. “When we get to the private island on Thursday, we’re still going to enjoy our day in a cabana while the boys go snorkeling with Colt, Ash, and Kit. What won’t happen…is me going down on one knee and asking you to be engaged to me for the rest of our lives.”

Fuck me.

He opened his hand to reveal… I had to lean closer, because it was dark—holy fuck. Two rings.

“You’re going to have to suffer my traditionalist ways, I’m afraid.” He gathered my left hand in both his and kissed my knuckles. I felt myself grin, and I couldn’t fucking believe him. He’d planned this for Thursday? And I’d clumsily wrecked it. “KC Hayles, my infuriating best friend, my family, and my love—will you spend the rest of your life with me?”

Fucking hell, he knew how to shatter me in the best ways.

I exhaled a laugh and felt new emotions stir in my chest, expanding with each breath. “You fucking know I will, baby.” I leaned forward and kissed him hard, needing it. Needing the closeness. “For the record, I love your traditionalist ways. Sometimes. Now, anyway.”

“Yeah? Good.” He smiled and showed me the ring. “Perhaps this was the perfect route if we consider your nightmare.”

I felt my forehead crease. “I wouldn’t call this a nightmare.”

He chuckled. “Right, but you’ve told me the memory you relive—and I remember what I told you that day.”

I was still confused, so he told me to read the inscription.

“I’ll turn on the lights,” he said. “Hold, please.”

He went over to the door and opened it enough to reach the switch inside, and then I could suddenly see.

My stare immediately fell on the cursive words that glinted on the inside of the ring.

Always by your side, my love.

A breath gusted out of me, and I had to swallow.

Yeah. This was the perfect way.

“I took the liberty of adding the same inscription to mine,” he admitted. “But I have a soft spot for when you call me baby, so I used that instead.”

He was fucking incredible. I had no words. Instead, I slipped the ring on my finger, made sure he got on his too, and then I kissed the fuck out of him.

“I love you.” I felt his vacation stubble under my fingertips and deepened the kiss.

I love you so much. You’re perfect.

“I love you too.” His hands roamed my arms, then up my shoulders and to the back of my neck. “I will always need you, KC.”

I nodded. “Me too, baby.” I swept my tongue around his and inhaled deeply through my nose, tasting mint, Sprite, and smoke. It made me grin a little, because it fit the hour. His not-so-secret indulgence, my botched attempt at romance, us cursing each other out once or twice, and then a proposal.

It couldn’t have been better.

I slowed down the kiss and rested my forehead against his, and we opened our eyes at the same time.

I smiled and brushed my thumbs across his cheeks.

He smiled back.

* * *

“Woo-hooo! Faster, Daddy! Faster!” Noa shouted.

I laughed and made a swift turn, sending a spray of water over Colt and Kit’s Jet-Ski, and then I was off again. Adrenaline pumping, sun shining, and Noa hugging my middle as tightly as he could. He laughed so hard.

“Lock the target, Daddy!” I heard Kit yell behind us. “Catch them!”

“It’s a Jet-Ski, not a fighter jet, baby!” Colt shot back, the sore loser.

I couldn’t stop grinning. Fuck me, how I had missed activities like this one.

We tore out over open waters, bouncing across the calm waves, and it was so goddamn beautiful here. We had to travel more often. Noa and I needed the Caribbean in our lives.

Tragically, an hour went by fast, and soon, we had to return the Jet-Skis.

Maybe I was high on the adrenaline, high on happiness, but there was so much I wanted to do.

Colt and Kit decided to stop for snow cones by the little marina, while Noa and I started our trek back to the beach. Since Macklin and Tate had planned a beach party slash barbecue here in St. Croix, they’d opted for a beach that was farther away from the tourist cluster.

“Oh, farts! The sand is so hot!”

“So jump up in my lap, silly boy.” I slowed down and waited for him. The boardwalk, if one could call it that, was a narrow strip of old wooden boards that needed to be replaced fifty years ago, and at least two or three inches of sand were in between each one. But it was nothing my chair couldn’t handle. Noa had asked me to buy it because it was an upgraded version of my all-terrain chair. This one was geared toward athletes.

The trek became a ride, and Noa giggled at each bump we rolled over.

He was damn gorgeous with his tan, sun-kissed hair, and extra freckles.

“I was thinking,” I said. “We should buy a house in South Florida or something. Whatever place resembles this the most—where we can ride Jet-Skis all day long.”

“Yes!” he cried out. “I vote yes!” He swung his legs over the armrest and draped an arm around my shoulders. “We could talk to Ty, maybe? He has a house way down south. Lane says it’s heaven on earth.”

We could definitely do that.

A few minutes later, we passed a wooded area that soon revealed a more secluded beach—and our friends. And I didn’t know if a permit was needed and Macklin had worked his magic or what…well, actually, there were two permanent cement fire pits, so it had to be allowed.

We’d been promised grilled fish and cocktails, so I was looking forward to that. And when Macklin announced a menu, there was always more.

Noa jumped off and detached my cane from the chair, and he helped me up.

“Daddy!” I heard Cam holler.

“Yeah?” I squinted for the sun, reaching for my shades that were usually tucked into my tee, only to remember I had them in my side pocket. I wasn’t wearing a shirt, for chrissakes.

Cam jogged over, out of breath. “You gotta talk to Master,” he said. “He’s found his next hobby.”

Oh dear.

“What is it this time?” I almost didn’t want the answer.

He huffed a breath and planted his hands on his hips. So cute. “He wants to buy a boat.”

“Ha!” Noa snorted a laugh and jerked a thumb over his shoulder—at me. “Daddy just said we should buy a house in Florida.”

Well, now. A boat was an intriguing idea; we wouldn’t have to stick to one place. The problem was, we knew absolutely nothing about boating.

“Oh my God, you’re considering it,” Cam accused.

I chuckled and positioned Noa next to me. I needed both him and the cane if I was going to walk in the softest beach sand.

“Before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s see if this isn’t another one of his five-minute projects,” I reasoned. “He may very well have forgotten it by the time we get home.”

Cam seemed skeptical. “He’s already talking to Master Walker, and he has a boat.”

That didn’t mean anything.

With assistance from Noa, we made our way over to the barbecue area, and Macklin asked if I needed help. It was okay. I was okay. Meanwhile, Cam ran ahead because he said he’d prepared a seat for me under an umbrella.

They’d brought out the works. Umbrellas, coolers, all of it.

Kingsley, Ash, Shay, Greer, Sloan, and River were out in the water, and Reese was on his way out.

Naked as the day he was born, of course.

“Dong alert!” Noa yelled.

Reese smirked and picked up a towel from a beach chair. “There’s a honey dipper with your name on it, pet.”

“No, thanks!”

I chuckled under my breath.

Soon enough, we arrived at our little spot. Cam had fanned out a few towels, and Lucian was resting comfortably under the umbrella, while Walker was catching some sun right next to him. And yes, they were discussing boats.

Noa assisted me so I didn’t fall on my ass. “Here’s your fiancé number two, Sir Proposal Whore—I mean, I love you!”

I coughed around a laugh and slumped back.

Lucian merely tossed him a lazy grin. “I’m too blissed out to engage, chipmunk.”

“I think you’ve engaged enough,” Noa guffawed and ran off. “Corey! Wanna build a sandcastle?”

“Always so bratty.” Cam snickered and shook his head, then faced me. “I’ll be right back with refreshments, Daddy. Do you need a refill, Master?”

“I’m very good, darling. Thank you.” Lucian stretched out his legs and brushed some beach sand off his chest.

While Cam returned to the other subbies working on our food—I spotted Archie slicing bread and Tate cutting up vegetables—Reese came over to us and gave us a show. Perhaps not consciously, but he had no issues drying his junk for the world to see.

Walker eyed him. “Any more clues?”

Reese shook his head. “But we think it’s gonna be here.”

Ah. The prank. There wasn’t a whole lot else we could do but watch it unfold at this point. We knew they were up to something, and that was all.

“By the way,” Reese said and faced Lucian. “Guess who reapplied for a new membership.”

Lucian cursed. “Are you kidding?”

Reese shook his head again. “Afraid not. I forwarded it to Pen just in case.”

I raised my eyebrows. “Ella’s coming back?”

“Looks like it.” Reese shrugged. “I’m gonna stay out of it, but Pen knows where she has me.”

“I’ll call her when we get back on the ship,” Lucian said.

* * *

We waited and waited.

Colt and Kit joined Lucas under their own umbrella, food was served, drinks were handed out. Macklin, Tate, Archie, and Cam waited on everyone with smiles on their faces, and it was some feast. Grilled fish, grilled vegetables, delicious bread, and some sort of chutney was followed by a perfect dessert of beer and potato chips.

Something wasn’t adding up.

They were all so sweet. On the very occasion we suspected they were going to turn on us. I mean, they’d put so much effort into this outing. They’d clearly bought all the food in the little street market that was close to the port, but then the rest? Coolers and umbrellas?

The clock was ticking if they were going to do something, because we had to be back on the ship in roughly an hour, and it was a ten-minute walk.

After finishing a serving of potato chips, Noa fell back against me and puffed out his little tummy.

“I’m so fuuuuull!”

I brushed my fingers over his hair and kissed the top of his head. Then he grabbed my hand and ghosted a digit over my new ring.

“I admit, it’s hella hot,” he said. I smiled. “But a cock ring would’ve been funner.”

I chuckled and exchanged a sidelong glance with an equally amused Lucian.

“Time to pack up!” we heard Macklin announce.

What the fuck? Was this it?

Well…

We had a couple more days. The private island tomorrow. Possibly a session where Colt punished Macklin for the stunt he’d pulled at the Easter event, which…had sparked our suspicion in the first place.

I looked over to the Tenleys’ spot, and River was frowning to himself. So was Reese.

I sought out Colt next, then Greer. Both shrugged and were seemingly as confused as we were.

“No, wait!” Macklin said, and he instantly had my attention. Was this it? “Put down the bottle, my lovely Owner. You don’t lift a finger. We’ve got this.” He glanced around at the rest of us. “Same goes for all of you, Sirs. We have this covered. You can mosey on back to the ship and relax.”

Okay, what fresh hell was this, and how did I escape?

I frowned and turned to Lucian.

I couldn’t say anything. Noa was dozing off between my legs.

Something wasn’t right, though. Maybe a trap waited for us in our staterooms?

One more glance at Colt and Greer confirmed it for me. We were gonna get to the fucking bottom of this. We would not let the brats beat us.

“Daddy?” Noa yawned.

“Yeah?”

“Wouldn’t it be cool to be able to fart the alphabet?”

I blew out a breath and scratched my forehead.

Right.

* * *

KC, Noa, Lucian, and Cam will return as secondary characters throughout the series.

On the following page, you’ll see who’s ready to tell their story next.