Chapter 41

FORTY-ONE

SALEM

M assimo's cold gaze bore down on me, and I felt a sense of resignation creeping over me, a quiet acceptance that my time was up.

I wished I had more time, more moments to spend with the people who had found their way into my heart. I wished I had told them how much they meant to me, how their presence had brought light into the darkness of my world.

But as Massimo raised his gun, preparing to pull the trigger, a rush of defiance surged through me. I refused to go down without a fight, refused to let fear consume me in my final moments.

I was preparing to make one last hopeless attempt at taking down Massimo when Remington burst into the hallway, his gun aimed at our father. The sound of the gunshot echoed in the confined space, and I watched in disbelief as Massimo stumbled forward, a crimson stain blossoming on his forehead before he collapsed in a lifeless heap.

I staggered, feeling lightheaded and overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events. But before I could fall, strong arms wrapped around me, pulling me close. Cole's voice, laced with both relief and concern, reached my ears. "It's okay, Butterfly," he murmured, his words a soothing balm to my frayed nerves. "I've got you."

As I leaned into his embrace, trying to steady my breathing, Mateo's voice cut through the chaos with a touch of humor. "Damn, we missed out on all the fun," he remarked, his tone light despite the gravity of the situation. "I was really looking forward to gutting that motherfucker."

Lennox approached us then, his expression grave yet relieved when he stepped into the hallway. "Cohen messaged us as soon as he took you here," he informed, his eyes meeting mine with understanding. I opened my mouth to respond, but before I could utter a word, Cohen stumbled up the stairs from the basement, his figure haggard and bloodied.

My heart clenched at the sight of him, and I turned in Cole's arms to get a better look, ignoring the pain shooting through me. Cohen leaned against the wall, his breathing labored, but a flicker of relief crossed his face as his eyes met mine.

Mateo and Lennox approached me, and I spun back to face them. Mateo's hand came up to cup my face, his touch surprisingly gentle. His lips crashed against mine in a fierce kiss, a silent reassurance of his relief at my safety. His forehead pressed against mine, his voice a soft murmur against my lips. "I'm so glad you're okay, sweetheart," he whispered, his breath warm against my skin.

I could only manage a faint nod in response, my mind still reeling from the whirlwind of emotions coursing through me. Before I could gather my thoughts, Lennox stepped forward, his gaze intense as he assessed my condition.

His fingers tilted my chin up, his touch tender. "You okay?" he asked, his voice a low rumble in the tense atmosphere. I mustered a small smile, nodding in confirmation. "Yes, Sir," I whispered, warmth washing over me at his concern.

A hint of a smile tugged at the corners of Lennox's lips, a silent acknowledgment of our connection. "Let's get you two home," he said, his tone firm yet reassuring. With that, they ushered us out of the building, each of them taking charge of our safety.

Cole kept me in his arms, his strength a comforting anchor in the midst of the dissipating chaos. I leaned into him, allowing myself to be carried away from the nightmare that had unfolded in the decrepit hallway.

Beside us, Remington supported Cohen, his steady presence a source of strength for the wounded enforcer. Despite our pain and exhaustion, there was unity among us.

As I was carried off into the night, surrounded by the people I cared about most, a glimmer of hope pierced through the darkness, reminding me that even in the bleakest of moments, there was still light to be found.

There had been a whirlwind of activity since we took down Massimo and Cohen's father, days filled with tension and uncertainty as we worked to establish control over the Triad.

We had achieved it—the NYC Triad was ours. The photos incriminating me had been destroyed and we were already implementing changes that would improve the lives of those residing in our territory. Lennox had begun dismantling what remained of the human trafficking ring, and I was hopeful for what more was to come.

While many were quick to embrace the changes, others resisted. Dissent had brewed among those faithful to my father. Those unwilling to adapt were given a choice: flee New York City, never to return, or face death. I quietly relished when it was the latter.

My injuries were nearly healed, and Cohen was on the path to recovery. We knew we had to remain vigilant moving forward, as we couldn't be certain we had smoked out all those still loyal to my father. With our relentless efforts tirelessly working to ensure a smooth transition of power, we were left with little time to spend at home.

But tonight was different. Tonight, we were finally all home together, a rare moment of respite amid the chaos of our new responsibilities. As the cards were shuffled and poker chips clinked against the table, a sense of family settled over us, a reminder of the bonds that held us together in the darkness.

Cole's question broke the easy rhythm of our game. "Do you think we can finally go on that well-deserved holiday?" he asked, his voice full of anticipation. I smiled at the thought, the image of sandy beaches and cool margaritas dancing in my mind.

"I wouldn't mind sitting on a beach somewhere sipping a margarita," I replied, my tone wistful as I imagined the potential peace of the moment.

Lennox's brow furrowed in thought as he considered Cole's question. "Who would look after the Triad while we're gone?" he asked, his concern mirrored in the others' eyes.

Remington chimed in then, his words laced with confidence. "I'll keep an eye on things," he said, his easy demeanor a reassuring presence in the room. "I had plenty of downtime in the safe house, so a holiday is the last thing on my mind."

As the cards lay forgotten on the table, I turned to Fallon, my curiosity piqued by her uncharacteristic silence. "Where do you want to go, Fallon?" I asked, hoping to engage her in the conversation.

Her response caught me off guard, her words holding a quiet resolve. "I'm not going," she said simply, her green gaze steady as she met my eyes.

Lennox leaned forward, his voice filled with concern. "Fallon, you've been through just as much as the rest of us. You need this break."

"Come on, Sis," Cole chimed in, his tone pleading. "You don't have to stay behind."

I nodded in agreement, echoing their sentiments. "You deserve some time to relax. There's a jug of margaritas with our name on it."

But Fallon remained resolute, her gaze unwavering as she shook her head. "I appreciate it, guys, I really do," she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her eyes. "But I can't just leave Remington to handle everything on his own."

Despite our continued protests, Fallon's decision remained unchanged. With a resigned sigh, Lennox reached out, his hand resting reassuringly on Fallon's shoulder. "Alright, if that's what you want," he said softly, his gaze filled with understanding.

Fallon offered a small smile of gratitude before excusing herself from the room, leaving the rest of us to digest her decision in somber silence.

"Fallon, wait," I called out, reaching out to stop her. But she shook her head with a small smile.

"It's okay, Salem," she said softly. "I'm just tired. I'm happy to stay behind with Remington. Besides, you and the guys deserve a holiday together. I'll even help you plan it. But not tonight. I'm wrecked, and my bed is calling my name."

I gave her a nod and a small smile, letting her escape for now. Something was bothering my best friend, and I would only let her avoid the subject for so long.

As Fallon disappeared from view, Remington rose from his seat.

"Guess it's time for me to hit the sack too," he announced quietly, his voice carrying a note of weariness. "See you all in the morning," he added before slipping out of the room, leaving me alone with my guys.

All eyes turned to me, and a new energy coursed through the room. Lennox was the first to speak, his words laden with hunger. "Should we give you a preview of what you can expect on a holiday all alone with the four of us?"

I swallowed hard before nodding, heat coiling tight within me. "Would like that, my queen?" Lennox's voice was low, his gaze piercing as he waited for my response.

I could only manage a breathless "yes," my voice nearly hushed.

"Yes, what?" His tone was firm and commanding, and I knew what he wanted to hear. "

Yes, Sir," I replied, my voice steady despite the nervous flutter in my stomach.

Lennox's approval enveloped me, his nod toward Cole a silent signal. With a predatory grace, Cole rose from his seat, his movements purposeful as he stalked toward me. There was a possessiveness in his demeanor that set my pulse racing, and as he leaned in, his lips captured mine in a searing kiss. It was a promise of what was to come, a taste of the fire that burned between us.

The intensity of his touch left me breathless, my senses reeling as I melted into him. The world fell away, and there was only the heat of his lips on mine, the hunger in his touch igniting something primal within me.

Cole pulled back and his gaze met mine, dark with desire and something more—something possessive and raw. In that moment, I knew that I belonged to them all, body and soul, bound by the electric charge that crackled between the five of us.

Cole took advantage of our heated embrace, his hands tracing down my spine, pausing only to lift my dress from my body and massage my ass. I moaned into his mouth as his hands dipped lower, teasing the edge of my thong before slipping a finger beneath the fabric.

"Oh, fuck," I cried out, my body arching against Cole's touch.

He slid a finger inside me, moving it in and out slowly, causing me to writhe and moan against him. I could feel myself growing wetter, my desire building with each stroke.

Cole then placed his hands on my hips, lifting me to perch on the edge of the poker table. Across from us, Mateo rose and cleared the table of chips and cards with a swift swipe before settling back into his seat. The remnants of our game went flying in all directions, scattering across the room.

My body was growing greedy, hungry, and desperate to be filled. My breasts heaved as I squirmed and twisted under the gaze of all four of them. Their cocky smirks only served to fuel the fire burning through me.

Cole grasped my hips roughly, causing me to squawk incoherently.

"I'm going to fuck you so hard, you'll feel me for a week," he groaned, pushing me onto my back in one swift motion.

I landed on the felt-covered table with a soft thump, staring up at Cole with anticipation. He made quick work of tearing my bralette and thong from my body before abandoning his own clothes. His cock stood at full attention, glistening in the low light.

Without breaking eye contact, he knelt between my spread legs, positioning himself at my entrance. I could feel his cockhead pressing against my opening, teasing and tantalizing me.

Then, with a grunt of exertion, Cole surged forward, driving his full length into me with one wide stroke. I gasped at the sensation, my body convulsing as I was filled to the brim.

"Oh, fuck," I moaned, my eyes fluttering shut as I felt him stretching my impossibly tight pussy. Cole's hands gripped my waist, holding me still as he began to thrust slowly.

His cock slid in and out of me, rubbing against my G-spot with each powerful stroke. "Oh, God," I whined, unable to contain myself any longer. "That feels so fucking good."

Cole grinned down at me, sweat glistening on his forehead as he quickened his pace. His thrusts became more jagged, filling me to the brim before pulling out almost completely.

I needed to come. I reached down to slip a hand between my legs. I placed two fingers against my already soaking clit, feeling the pulsating waves of pleasure build up. As Cole forced one last deep thrust inside me, I felt myself reaching the edge of orgasm. I let out a low, guttural moan that was echoed by the men around me.

As Cole moved off and collapsed beside me, panting heavily, I shifted my focus to Mateo, who was now standing before me with his cock in hand.

"Get on your hands and knees, Salem," he ordered, the smoldering intensity of his gaze making me shiver in anticipation.

I followed his command, rising to my hands and knees, my ass pointed toward Mateo. He gripped my hips tightly and thrust deep inside of me. I gasped at the sudden invasion, arching my back while I pushed my hips back to meet him.

Our skin slapped together as we moved in unison, each stroke building up our pleasure to unbearable levels.

My moans echoed through the room, punctuating the intimate sounds of our desperate movements.

All control vanished, replaced by pure, raw desire. I struggled to maintain my composure, my nails digging into the green tabletop as I felt Mateo's weight bearing down upon me.

I spread my legs wider, urging Mateo to take me harder, deeper, and faster. My body thrummed with a need for satisfaction, for the explosive climax that hovered just beyond reach.

The coolness of Mateo's piercings inside me had my eyes rolling back. He pulled out slightly, going even deeper when he slid back in. My gasps fell out faster than I could stop them. My entire body was his to control.

Mateo's hold around my waist tightened as he fucked me. He spanked me, and I yelped, jerking away, but my pussy clenched in response. He tried again, sending another shock down my spine.

″Mateo, I'm so close.″ I moaned as he thrust harder, my orgasm just out of reach.

Mateo gripped the back of my neck, forcing my head to lie among the scattered cards on the table. ″Don't fucking come,″ he ordered.

″W-what?″ I gasped, turning to look at him. ″I can't control it.″

″You can and you will. You don't get to come until you wear our ring.″ He started fucking me slowly, tenderly grinding against everywhere I needed him. I could feel the metal balls on his piercing catching my sensitive inner walls, sending a jolt of pleasure directly to my clit.

It was taking every bit of my self-control to hold back my orgasm. My body shook with need, and I looked over my shoulder at him, seeing the dark look in his eyes as he stared at me.

″Do you want to come for me, sweetheart?″ he asked, the rasp in his voice thick. ″Say you'll wear the ring.″ Fucking controlling dick. I had already decided to wear it, but a surge of defiance pulsed through me, urging me to resist just because he was demanding it. But as his fingers delicately brushed a stray strand from my face and he thrust into me, I threw that idea out the window. I needed to come.

″Yes. Yes, I'll wear it. Please let me come. I'll wear it, I promise.″

″Come,″ Mateo said, watching me crash as I finally let go. ″That's it, little wolf. Squeeze my cock.″

I rocked faster as Mateo groaned, holding me tighter and jerking inside me. We both kept moving, pushing against each other as we rode out our high. Mateo pulled out, and I sagged against the table.

He leaned over the table, placing one last possessive kiss against my lips before moving back to his seat.

I turned to look at Lennox, who was slowly rising from his chair. He unbuttoned his shirt as he stalked around the table toward me. I tried not to drool as he revealed his sculpted form. Stepping in between my legs, he freed himself from his slacks and leaned down to devour me with a searing kiss.

Lennox's hands roamed over my body as we kissed, seeking out each sensitive spot with unerring accuracy. He took my earlobe between his teeth and whispered filthy, dirty things that made me blush and tremble with need.

His fingers slid down my body, tracing the curve of my waist and the arc of my hip before settling between my legs.

"You're so fucking wet," he growled, his voice low and husky. "Ready for more?"

I let out a soft moan, arching my back as his fingers moved in slow, teasing circles over my clit. I was panting now, desperate for more, but Lennox was determined to take his time.

He teased my entrance with his pulsing cock, sliding it up and down my slit, coating it in both my slick arousal and the cum leaking from my pussy. I whimpered, trying to push forward onto him, but he held me still, his grasp tight on my hips.

"Please, Lennox," I begged, "fuck me already."

He chuckled darkly, his voice dripping with sin. "Begging for it already? I like that." Then he slammed into me, filling me completely and causing me to cry out in pleasure.

"Oh fuck, yes!" I yelled, arching my back and pushing myself further onto him. ″Harder! Fuck me harder! Please, Sir!"

He complied, his rhythm growing rougher, slamming into me with faster, harder strokes.

"You can take more. I can feel how tight and ready you are for me. I'll fuck you like the dirty girl you are."

With that, he plunged deeper inside me, causing me to scream. I was so close to the edge that I could feel it building up inside of me, begging to be released.

I pushed my hips up, meeting him stroke for stroke. Our bodies moved together in a perfect rhythm, like a well-oiled machine.

Lennox kneaded my full breasts with his skilled hands, tweaking my sensitive nipples.

I moaned as his touch sent waves of pleasure crashing over me, threatening to drown me in the moment.

His fingers traced down my body, and he tilted my hips. The angle shifted just enough to allow him to reach deeper, hitting that coveted spot that elicited gasps and squeals from my sinfully satisfied mouth.

I shuddered as I came, my body clenching around Lennox's driving cock. He groaned out and pumped with one, two more thrusts before his cock began to pulse, and he emptied himself into my aching pussy.

"Ah, fuck!" he cried out as he spilled his seed deep inside me.

We collapsed on the table, panting heavily to catch our breath, the three other men sharing an intense, knowing look.

Cohen shifted in his seat, a hungry grin on his face. "I need to be inside her," he growled, unable to stay away any longer. He grabbed me by the ankle closest to his chair, pulling me toward him roughly until my legs draped around his hips.

I whimpered at the sudden aggression, but my body welcomed the change. Cohen's shoulder and injured hand still remained in a sling, but he had managed to free his hard and weeping cock from his jeans. The feel of Cohen's hard shaft rubbing against my sensitive folds elicited soft, needy noises from my throat.

"Do it. Take what's yours," I murmured, unable to resist his raw, commanding presence. I needed him inside of me, filling me to the brim.

Cohen obliged with my wish without hesitation. He grasped my hip firmly with his good hand as he thrust himself deep inside me, penetrating me with a raw force that made me moan with pleasure.

I could feel my pussy stretching around his thick girth as he slid in and out, hitting that perfect spot that sent waves of pure ecstasy throughout my body.

I moaned loudly, wrapping my legs around him and pulling him deeper inside.

"Goddamn, Salem. You're so fucking tight," Cohen groaned, his hips moving faster as he pistoned in and out of my wet heat.

I could feel another orgasm building up, but I didn't want this to end. I looked up at Cohen with a wicked smile and pushed myself down on him harder.

"Cohen, I'm so close," I whined, my voice hoarse and needy.

Cohen grasped my hip even tighter, slamming up into me faster and harder, driving his cock deeper inside. His hard shaft rubbed against my inner walls, eliciting a loud moan from me as my pleasure reached new heights.

I slowly rose, sliding all the way to the tip of Cohen's shaft before slamming down again. I took all of him inside me when I felt a finger circling my clit.

I gasped, breath hitching while my pulse quickened. Cohen whispered against my lips, telling me to let go. I pressed against his lips, closing the distance between us as we both fell over the edge.

Cohen rolled his hips, spilling inside me while holding my waist as he came. I slumped against him, careful not to hurt him.

I let my gaze wander around the table, taking in the faces of the men who had woven themselves into the fabric of my existence. Mateo, with his rugged charm and unwavering loyalty; Lennox, whose authoritative presence commanded respect and admiration; and Cole, whose touch ignited a fire within me that I could never extinguish. My eyes moved to Cohen last, whose embrace felt like coming home.

As I looked at each of them in turn, I felt complete. With them by my side, I felt whole, as if all the fragmented pieces of my being had finally been put back together. They were more than just family; they were my confidants, my protectors, and my lovers. In their arms, I found solace, strength, and an unspoken understanding that transcended words.

Cohen's good arm wrapped around me in a comforting embrace. I leaned into him, reveling in the warmth of his touch and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath my ear. In his eyes, I saw a future where we could finally find peace and happiness. There was no past, no future—only the tangible reality of our connection, binding us together in an unbreakable bond.

Mateo's smug laughter echoed through the room, a sound that never failed to lift my spirits and ease the weight of the world from my shoulders. His easygoing nature and infectious energy were a balm to my soul.

Lennox's gaze met mine, his eyes holding a depth of emotion that words could never adequately convey. In his presence, I felt seen, truly seen, for all that I was and all that I aspired to be. He was the steady hand that guided me through the tumultuous currents of life, a beacon of strength and stability in a world fraught with uncertainty.

And then there was Cole, his intensity a stark contrast to the lighthearted banter that filled the room. As his gaze met mine, a spark flickered between us, igniting a firestorm of passion that threatened to consume us both. In his arms, I found passion, desire, and a love that transcends all boundaries.

Together, they were my sanctuary, my sanctuary from the chaos of the world outside. With them, I was invincible, unstoppable—a force to be reckoned with. And as I looked around the room at the men who had captured my heart, I knew that I was exactly where I was meant to be.