Page 74 of Filthy Rich Bosses

As darkness begins to settle over the water, I straighten up, squaring my shoulders. No decision has been made, but at least I feel a little clearer. Whatever happens next, I know I'm strong enough to handle it.

I shake my head, pushing away from the railing. "All right, Tessa. Time to face the music...and whatever this surprise is."

My footsteps echo in the empty stairwell as I descend, each step feeling heavier than the last. The house is eerily quiet, and I can't help but wonder what the guys are up to.

"Hello?" I call out, my voice carrying a hint of nervous anticipation.

No answer. Just as I'm about to call out again, I reach the bottom of the stairs and freeze. A trail of deep red rose petals catches my eye, leading away from the staircase.

"What in the world...?" I murmur, following the path with my gaze.

My heart races as I trace the trail, the soft petals crunching gently beneath my feet. They lead me to the kitchen, where asingle champagne flute sits on the counter, filled with golden bubbles.

I pick up the glass, bringing it to my nose. The crisp, fruity aroma tickles my senses. "Okay, guys. You've officially piqued my curiosity."

Another scatter of petals catches my eye, this time leading toward the patio doors. I can't help but smile, despite my lingering doubts.

"I swear, if this is some elaborate prank, Chase..." I mutter, but there's no real heat behind my words. My hand hesitates on the door handle, butterflies dancing in my stomach.

"Here goes nothing," I whisper, taking a deep breath before stepping outside.

As I step onto the patio, my breath catches in my throat. "Oh my God," I gasp, nearly dropping the champagne flute.

The entire space is aglow with what must be hundreds of flickering candles. Their warm light bathes everything in a soft, golden hue, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. The flames dance in the gentle evening breeze, casting mesmerizing shadows across the deck.

"This is...unbelievable," I whisper to myself, my eyes wide as I take in the scene.

The candles form a path, leading down toward the beach. My heart hammers in my chest as I follow it, my bare feet sinking into the cool sand. With each step, the sound of waves lapping at the shore grows louder.

As I round a small dune, I suddenly see them—Chase, Cole, and Grayson. They're standing near a beautifully set table right on the beach, illuminated by more candles and strings of twinkling lights.

"Surprise," Chase says softly, his smile warm and inviting.

I feel my eyes start to well up. "You guys did all this?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

Cole steps forward, his eyes twinkling. "We wanted to show you how much you mean to us, spitfire."

"It's...it's overwhelming," I admit, blinking rapidly to hold back tears. "But in a good way. I've never had anyone do anything like this for me before."

Grayson reaches out, gently taking my hand. "You deserve it, Tessa. And so much more."

I look at each of them in turn, my chest tight with emotion. "I don't know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything," Chase assures me. "Just enjoy the evening with us."

As we settle around the table, the ocean breeze carries the scent of grilled seafood and fragrant herbs. Chase pours champagne into delicate flutes, the bubbles catching the candlelight.

"To new beginnings," Grayson toasts, his blue eyes locked on mine.

We clink glasses, and I take a sip, the crisp coolness a stark contrast to the warmth blooming in my chest. For once, the idea of staying, of choosing them, doesn't feel so terrifying.

"So, Tessa," Cole starts, his voice playful, "I've been meaning to ask you this for awhile. What's the craziest animal rescue you've ever done?"

I laugh, grateful for the easy conversation starter. "Oh, you wouldn't believe me if I told you."

"Try us," Chase challenges with a grin.

As I launch into the story of rescuing a stubborn donkey from a sinkhole, I find myself relaxing. The guys listen intently, laughing at all the right moments, and I'm struck by how natural this feels.

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