Page 58 of Nanny for the Bikers

“This is incredible,” I breathe, trailing my fingers through the cool water. “I feel so... free.”

Teller’s eyes meet mine, a warmth in their depths that makes my heart skip a beat. “That’s the magic of being out here.”

I nod, understanding exactly what he means. Out here, with the boys and Shadow, I feel a sense of belonging, of peace. The worries and fears that usually plague me seem distant, insignificant in the face of this perfect moment.

The sun dips lower in the sky, painting the world in hues of gold and orange, as we reluctantly make our way back to shore. My muscles ache in the most satisfying way, a testament to the day’s adventures. Shadow bounds ahead, shaking the water from his fur and barking excitedly.

“I think someone’s ready for round two,” Kip chuckles, ruffling Shadow’s ears affectionately.

“I don’t know about round two,” I laugh, stretching my arms above my head, “but I could definitely go for some birthday cake right about now.”

Clay’s eyes sparkle with mischief as he slings an arm around my shoulders. “Oh, I think we can arrange that. But first, we have to pick up Piper. She won’t want to miss out.”

I laugh. “I don’t think she’s supposed to be eating cake.”

“She doesn’t know that.”

When we step through the door, the laughter dies on my lips, replaced by a gasp of wonder. The living room is awash in the soft glow of candlelight, the air heavy with the sweet scent of vanilla and sugar. And there, in the center of it all, is a cake - a beautiful, decadent creation of chocolate and cream, adorned with a delicate spiral of candles.

“Happy birthday, Ayla,” Clay murmurs, his voice low and warm in my ear. “We wanted to make sure your day ended just as perfectly as it began.”

I turn to face them, my eyes brimming with tears. “You guys... I don’t even know what to say. This is too much.”

Kip grins, the candlelight dancing in his blue eyes. “Nonsense. Nothing’s too much for our girl.”

Teller nods, a rare smile gracing his usually stoic features. “You deserve all this and more, Ayla. We just wanted to show you how much you mean to us.”

I look around at their faces, these men who have become my family, my everything, in such a short amount of time. I never thought I’d have this. Didn’t think I deserved it and yet here I am surrounded by people who want me to be happy. The emotion swells in my chest, threatening to overflow, and I have to take a shaky breath before I can speak.

And then they are surrounding me, their arms wrapping around me in a tight embrace. I feel the press of their bodies, the warmth of their skin, and I am home. This is where I belong. Kip kisses my head as we part and I wipe a tear from my eye.

The doorbell chimes, startling me out of my blissful reverie. I glance at the boys, my brow furrowed in confusion. Who else could we be expecting?

“That must be your birthday present,” Kip teases, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Better go see what it is.”

Teller nods, a sly grin tugging at his lips. “Yeah, Ayla. Don’t keep your gift waiting.”

Excitement bubbles up inside me, and I bounce on my toes. “You guys didn’t have to get me anything else. This day has been perfect already.”

“Just go answer the door,” Clay laughs, giving me a gentle nudge. “We promise it’s worth it.”

Heart racing with anticipation, I practically skip to the front door. I can’t believe they’ve planned another surprise for me.These boys - these wonderful, amazing boys - never cease to amaze me with their thoughtfulness.

I swing open the door, a huge smile plastered on my face. But the moment I see who’s standing on the other side, my stomach drops like a stone.

“Lila,” I whisper, my voice barely audible over the sudden roaring in my ears. “What... what are you doing here?”

31

AYLA

Istep outside and pull the door closed behind me, my heart pounding. Lila stands there, her eyes watching me, a flicker of uncertainty in their depths.

“What are you doing here?” I ask, my voice tight. “How did you even find me?”

Lila shifts, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “I couldn’t miss your birthday, Ayla. And...I needed to see you.”

I cross my arms, defensive walls slamming into place. Why now, after everything? After the harsh words hurled through the phone last time we spoke…

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