Page 37 of Her Three Tech Bros

“How would it even work?” I ask Ethan after a prolonged and heavy silence.

“We take turns?”

I roll my eyes and frown. “Seriously? That’s all you got?”

“I’m kidding. I’m thinking that we’re going to have to set some rules.”

“Like what?”

“First and foremost, this shouldn't come between us as friends. I care for Jade, but I don’t want to lose you or Ryan in the process.”

Ryan and I nod in agreement. Still, it feels weird talking about it as if it’s already been decided. Already I’m uncomfortable with the thought that these two would have Jade the same way I do. I don’t know if I could handle it.

I can’t hide the doubt from my face. Ryan and Ethan look at me, waiting for an answer. But there’s nothing for me to say except point out all of the things that could go wrong with this. Eventually, it seems obvious that a fight will break out between us.

Ryan speaks up. “I’m just going to throw it out there. I know none of us are willing to give up on Jade.”

Ethan and I exchange looks.

“What are you thinking about?” he asks me.

“I don’t know,” I mumble.

This can’t be the only way to go about it. But there are no other suggestions being offered up. Besides, Ryan’s right. I don’t want to give up on her.

I’m already feeling possessive over her.

“I’m still not sure about the whole thing.”

“Okay, then what do you want to do?”

“What are the other rules you were thinking of?”

“That we respect each other and our time with Jade. If you’re with her, Ryan and I can’t sabotage it. The same goes for you.”

“Are we going to let each other know when we’re with her or keep it how it is right now?”

He shrugs. “That’s up to each of us. This is just the beginning, though. We can work it out along the way.”

“That doesn’t help at all.” I click my tongue. “But I don't want to stop seeing her.”

“Are you on board then?”

I sigh and look at them. “I’ll give it a try. Only if Jade’s comfortable with it.”

The truth is, they’re both right. I do want to keep seeing Jade, and although I’m not comfortable doing that with my two best friends for a number of reasons, I’ll do it. Because the alternative sounds much worse than whatever could come from this unconventional relationship.

I won’t lose Jade. Not when this is the most I’ve felt for any girl in… well, ever.

16

JADE

It comes as a surprise when I see Ethan, Logan, and Ryan standing at my door. My mouth hangs open as I look at each of them.

“Um, hi?” My heart pounds in my chest, worried that this is the beginning of the end. I tried to enjoy all three of them, and it’s about to bite me in the ass.

Ethan smiles. “Hey. Are you heading out?”