Page 47 of Saved By Two

As I slip on the oven gloves and open the oven door, I’m hit with a wave of heat, adding to my already traitorous body as I slide out the baking tray.

Unable to stop myself, I glance over to see Caleb staring at Noah intently as he whispers something to him—words I’m unable to make out above the noise of the extractor fan and the sound of music playing from the radio.

The connection I have with these two men I’ve never had with one person, let alone two, and that might be the most terrifying revelation of all.

ChapterTwenty-Five

NOAH

The connection we share with Jessica has deepened beyond friendship, and we find ourselves yearning for something more. Yes, her arrival in our home was unexpected. She needed a safe place to heal physically and emotionally, and we know the emotional part is ongoing. But little did we know that her presence would fill a void in our lives we didn't even know existed. It's a complex situation, but we're willing to navigate it together.

At first, it was about making her comfortable, seeing that she had everything she needed. Over time, she’s opened up to us, conversations have deepened, and then something profound happened. She started to smile, her laughter filling the house, the trust she felt toward us developing before our eyes.

We know that exploring this newfound connection won't be without its challenges, but the rewards seem infinite. Caleb and I have discussed our desires and boundaries extensively, making sure we're on the same page. Open and honest communication has become our lifeline, and it's time to include Jessica.

"Are you ready for this, Caleb?” I whisper, reaching over and taking his hand in mine.

He nods. "Yes. We can't ignore this bond we both feel. She must feel it, too. And I want to explore what this could mean for all of us." His voice fills with deep tenderness. Caleb's grip on my hand tightens, and a smile tugs at the corners of his lips. “We know better than anyone that love is love, and whatever this is, it’s time we embrace it fully, which means being honest with her.”

I squeeze his hand back before letting go, a silent reassurance that we’re in this together just as Jessica returns and places a bowl of sticky toffee pudding in front of Caleb and me before returning for her own.

We all eat and exchange small talk, but there’s an undeniable tension in the air.

“Thank you, little one. I’ve eaten in Micheline star restaurants, and I have to say your cooking is up there with the best of them.”

Her cheeks glow at Caleb’s praise, and I can’t help but agree with him. She really is gifted.

“I’m going to get this cleared up, and then Caleb and I would like to discuss something with you.”

She nods, but it’s impossible not to see the uncertainty in her eyes.

“It’s nothing bad, sweet girl,” I say, hoping to reassure her. “Caleb, why don’t you pour us a drink, and I’ll join you both in the living room once I’ve loaded the dishwasher.” The truth is, I need a moment to collect myself. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. This could go one of two ways. I just hope she’s on the same wavelength as Caleb and me.

Moments later, I walk into the living room, and Caleb is standing beside the fireplace, tumbler in hand. Jessica is in the armchair, flicking through the TV. A shy smile graces her lips when she notices me. She looks radiant, and my heart skips a beat at the sight of her.

Caleb walks over, handing me a glass of whiskey from the coffee table before leaning in, giving me a chaste kiss.

He gives me a nod, and we both move to the sofa.

“Jessica.”

Here goes nothing.

She mutes the TV and turns to face us, giving us undivided attention.

I take a deep breath, my voice trembling slightly as I speak up. "Jessica, Caleb and I have been discussing something and wanted to share it with you.”

She swallows, her eyes flitting between the two of us. “Okay.” I can hear the wariness in her voice, and I hate that.

“Firstly, we know the reason you’re here isn’t necessarily one of your choosing. Let's say it was more happenstance,” I say, glancing at Caleb, who squeezes my thigh, giving me the added support to keep talking, fully aware he can cut in at any time. “But that being said, we’re glad you’re here because we've developed feelings for you…if it isn’t obvious.”

Her lips pull into a genuine smile, which has my heart racing.

“I care about the both of you, too.”

“We know, but what Noah is trying to say is our feelings,” he says, waving his hand between us. “They go beyond friendship.”

Jessica’s eyes widen in surprise, a slight hitch in her breathing.

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