I was terrified. Could four amazing men really have fallen for me?
But it was no use. I couldn’t choose. I wouldn’t.
I’d just go back to the grind at the firm. Maybe I’d scale back on how hard I was working, since my efforts seemed to go unnoticed and were certainly not going to be rewarded.
No more twosomes. Or three- or foursomes for that matter.
“I know, it’s strange as hell, that four very different guys would all consider you their type. But you are our type. Honestly,” Cato said.
“You’re not making this easier, you know.”
“It’s not easy. That’s clear. But we talked about it and are cool with you making a choice. Your happiness is the top priority here, for all of us.”
“No. Not choosing. Not gonna do it.”
The gravity of releasing them all hurt more than I ever knew it would, but I was determined to do it.
He kissed my temple. “I have to get back to work. Meet us at Brade’s tonight. We’ll all be there, and we’ll figure this thing out together.”
I watched him disappear into the throngs of people on the busy Manhattan sidewalk, like a tiny boat getting swallowed by unrelenting waves.
And I stood there, an impediment to the crowds that had just consumed Cato. I didn’t care one bit.
Chapter 27
Braden
I’d had a bitch of a day at the studio, fighting with not only the rest of the band but also our manager and sound engineer.
I had been an insufferable dick, taking my mood out on everyone around me. I owed the guys an apology and made a mental note to take care of that first thing in the morning.
But for now, all I wanted was a cold beer while I waited for Anson, Von, and Cato, and of course, our lovely Maizy.
I’d be lying if I didn’t admit I had some trepidation about what might happen when everyone arrived.
Who knew the promise of a little promotion could throw five people into such a state of uncertainty?
The doorbell rang, and I found both Anson and Von had arrived. “Hey, guys. C’mon in.”
No sooner had we got to the kitchen when the bell rang again. Von offered to answer the door and returned with Cato.
“Well, here we are,” I said, raising my beer bottle.
“Where’s our girl?” Anson asked.
“She’d texted me she was on her way.” I looked at my wristwatch. “And…she should be here any minute.” Just as I said that, the doorbell rang for a final time.
Maizy joined everyone in the kitchen, receiving several sincere compliments.
“Christ, you are gorgeous.”
“Yowsa, baby.”
“Shit, it’s good to see you.”
And she was freaking beautiful in a short lacy dress and boots that came up over her knees. I was so used to seeing her in work clothes, I couldn’t stop staring.
Dude, don’t be a dick. Give the girl some air.