Page 111 of Forbidden King (Magnolia Falls)

“Not really. That part is a recent turn of events. We’ve just been spending so much time together and exploring—things.” I shrugged. “There was no sex until just a few days ago.”

“Damn. Did he live up to the expectations?” Peyton whistled. “Because, my God, they were high.”

“He did,” I said, as a tear ran down my cheek.

Ruby leaned forward and gripped my shoulders. “Don’t you dare cry. This is all going to be fine. You fell in love. You followed your heart. You just need to make Hayes understand that this is what you want. What both of you want.”

“I’m sorry. This is supposed to be your bachelorette party, and I’ve just brought a big dark cloud with me.” I wiped my cheeks.

“This is what slumber parties are all about,” Peyton said. “Eating too much and swapping sex stories. And if it ends with a few tears—it’s a win.”

Demi laughed. “I agree with her on this one. This night couldn’t have been any better. And I’m also glad that we’re here for you right now. We love you, Saylor. This is what friends do.”

“She’s right. And I was dirty-cowboy’d out for the night. I was ready for some real-life events. After that freakishly oily stripper tried to give me a lap dance that I did not ask for, I was ready to go.” Ruby smirked.

“I think when you pulled out your pepper spray and gave him a warning, that did the trick,” Peyton said.

“Well, he sure as hell didn’t try again, did he?” Ruby raised a brow.

“Please. That guy was one oily, well-hung stud muffin. Having him shake his ass and his unusually large, er, banana, as Demi’s mother put it—well, it was a nice escape for an evening.”

“You know you’re ridiculous, right?” Demi said over her laughter as she hugged me tighter.

We all jumped when someone knocked on the door.

“Do you think it’s Guapo?”

“Who the hell is Guapo?”

“The oily stripper.”

“If that guy knows where we live, he is definitely getting pepper sprayed.” Ruby moved to her feet. “Let me see who it is.”

“It could be a murderer. It’s one o’clock in the morning,” Demi whisper-shouted as she ran to the kitchen. “I’m getting a knife.”

We were all on our feet and huddled together as we looked down to see a butter knife in Demi’s hand.

“Are you going to stab him or offer him some toast?” Ruby said over her laughter and peeked through the little hole in the door. “It’s freaking Romeo and Hayes.”

My stomach dropped at the mention of my brother.

“Awww… I’m so happy I don’t have to murder anyone.” Demi pulled the door open and lunged in Romeo’s arms.

“Is it bad that I’m kind of disappointed? I was ready to go all girl-gang crazy on the guy. And death by butter knife seems very empathetic.” Peyton shrugged.

My gaze locked with Hayes, and I could tell he was still intoxicated.

“So, this guy is refusing to go to sleep. I’m guessing you know why he’s here?” Romeo asked, as they stepped inside.

“Yes. I know why he’s here.” I hugged my brother before pulling away. “Come on. Let’s get some coffee in you, and we can talk.”

“How about you come home with me now, baby?” Romeo said.

“Yeah. I think that’s a good idea,” Demi said.

They said their goodbyes, and she thanked us multiple times for the best night ever.

“Come on, Peyt. You can sleep with me. Let’s give them some space to talk.” Ruby led Peyton down the hall, and they closed the door.

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