Page 23 of Fierce Secrets

What exactly had I gotten myself into?

Grayson's housewas exactly what you'd expect from a successful businessman – all modern and sleek in one of the city's most exclusive neighborhoods. He opened the door before we reached it, pulling me into a tight hug.

The drive here had been silent, and I’d gotten a headache from all the overthinking and worrying about everything that had happened, along with how my future looked.

But finally seeing Gray, it was the breath of fresh air I needed. He was the only family I had, and drawing in his trademark Tom Ford cologne granted me some peace and comfort in the chaos of my mind.

He'd texted saying he'd landed and was headed home while I was showering, and that he'd have dinner and drinks waiting for us. It was a touch of normalcy after everything, and I needed it.

"I can't believe that bastard," he muttered into my hair. "He's lucky I wasn't here, the prick. But you're here now, and everything's going to be okay."

"Thanks" I pulled back, catching the dangerous glint in his eyes. He was right in protective brother mode, and it warmed my heart. "It's over now."

"Damn straight, now, I got your favorite moscato. I think we could use some drinks," he said as he patted my shoulder and offered me that toothy, brotherly grin that made me relax. His gaze shifted to Leo, and he nodded before guiding us both inside.

Gray had a habit of moving around, but at least he'd had this place for the past two years.

Inside, it was the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. The entry opened to an open-concept living area, where dark hardwood floors contrasted nicely with lightgray walls. A comfortable L-shaped sectional in charcoal faced a mounted TV, while a few photos dotted the floating shelves beneath it.

"Dinner's here and ready," Gray said, leading us through to the dining area.

The kitchen and dining space merged seamlessly – all clean lines and practical luxury. Stainless steel appliances gleamed against white cabinets, and a simple six-seater table in dark wood dominated the space. Floor-to-ceiling windows lined the back wall, offering a view of the well-maintained backyard.

It was modern without being too showy, comfortable without being cluttered. The kind of place that said successful professional rather than wealthy showoff. Three place settings waited at one end of the table, wine already breathing in a decanter between them.

The only real personal touches were the photos scattered throughout – mostly of us growing up, though I noticed our parents were absent, save for a nice portrait photo of our mother on the fireplace mantle.

Gray had inherited a lot from our father and his businesses, but he'd always tried to remain somewhat humble, unlike Leo. Well, humble with his living spaces. We wouldn't mention the fancy yacht he spent a lot of time on. His home and car, on the other hand, were fairly standard, nothing crazy like Leo.

"Sit, I ordered your favorite Italian, Mer," Gray said as he gestured for us to take our seats, take-out containers from Vittorio's stacked by the head of the table where he'd sit.

I sunk into my seat, while Leo moved to sit across from me. Gray was quick to pour me a glass of wine, doubling the usual serve in true Gray fashion.

He then poured some whiskey into glasses for Leo and himself before sitting and serving up the food.

It was too much like old times, the three of us seated around a table, takeout food containers being passed around. We normally made the effort to cook something for Christmas, each bringing a plate, although I was sure Leo had someone else make it. I just couldn't picture him ever cooking.

Today though, it was different. Christmas was still two weeks away, and the tension between Leo and me was heavy.

Right, Christmas. I'd been planning to see my brother and Leo on Christmas eve, as was tradition if life allowed, then spend the actual day with Logan.

My throat tightened at the thought. That was not happening this year, or any year ever again.

Could I get a refund on the all inclusive trip to Mexico I'd gotten him for Christmas as a couples getaway? Maybe I could take Sofia instead? She'd be more than happy to go to Mexico and drink to her heart's content.

"What are you going to do about work? You can't keep going to that building," Gray asked as he took a sip of his whiskey, snapping me from my thoughts.

I pushed my pasta around the plate. "I haven't thought that far ahead. Sofia asked as well, but I… I have no idea. I got offered a position downtown, but the salary wasn't great… career growth was an option at least."

"She can work at my office downtown," Leo offered, his voice casual but his eyes sharp. "I have an opening in the financial department. Good salary and growth options."

Grayson's fork paused halfway to his mouth. "I'm not sure that's what's best for her."

"What's that supposed to mean?" I asked.

"Maybe the office in Lake Forest," my brother suggested, ignoring my question. "Smaller town, fresh start?—"

"I'm not leaving the city." I set my fork down. "My whole life is here. Sofia, my work?—"

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