Page 18 of Four Stepbrothers for Christmas

Isaac looked lost in thought, weighing the emotional risks against the potential for something meaningful. The weight of the past versus the allure of the present.

"We'll be in the hot tub," I added softly. "Join us if you want. But don't do it for us, or even for her. Do it for yourself. Whatever you decide, it's okay."

With that, I left him alone with his thoughts, closing the door softly behind me. I hoped, for Isaac's sake, he'd find the strength to confront his past and embrace the possibility of a brighter, shared future.

Chapter 11

Becca

The excitement zinged through my veins as I stepped into my room to change. The two-piece tankini I'd picked out for tonight was laid out on the bed. It was a choice piece; every time I wore it, I felt this unspoken power, a certain allure. It highlighted my curves perfectly, making me feel seductive and in control.

"Who needs Isaac anyway?" I whispered to myself, a touch of disappointment tinging my words.

Though I had secretly hoped he would be there, three out of four wasn't bad. And my, what a trio they promised to be.

A blush crept up my cheeks, memories of last night's wild fantasy playing in my mind. I'd never been one to daydream, but there was something about this setting, these men, that drew it out of me.

After ensuring everything looked just right, I threw on a hoodie to stave off the evening's chill, my legs bare. A quick glance in the mirror, a deep breath, and I was off.

It's just a hot tub hangout,I told myself.No pressure. Nothing happens that you don’t want to happen.

But when I stepped out the back door, the sight before me was straight out of one of those romance novels I'd never admit to reading. Three striking men, each radiating a unique charm, awaited me. The soft patio lights only intensified their allure—Luke with his chiseled features, Vinnie with that ever-present mischievous grin, and Archer, whose intense gaze promised mysteries I was eager to uncover.

"You're late," Luke’s voice slid over me, smooth and teasing.

I raised an eyebrow, smirking at his sarcasm. "Fashionably late is always in style."

Vinnie’s laughter was infectious. "Always worth the wait," he commented, his eyes warm and inviting.

Archer held out a glass of wine. "For the belle of the ball," his voice, dripping with charm, whispered.

Our fingers brushed as I took the glass, and sparks flew, undeniable and intense.

Hiding behind a sip of the rich wine, I gathered my courage. "Where's Isaac?" I tried to sound casual, hoping my disappointment wasn't too evident.

A shared glance between Vinnie and Archer spoke volumes. "Work to catch up on," Vinnie finally replied. "But he wanted us to make sure you have a good time."

I grinned, the combined weight of their gazes thrilling me. "With you three? I doubt that'll be a problem." I pulled the hoodie off. As soon as I did, I could feel the heat of their stares as they gazed at the sight of my skimpy suit.

I felt so powerful.

Slipping into the hot tub, the warm water enveloping me, I felt the boundaries of our professional relationships start to blur. The stars overhead, the soft bubbles, their lingering looks—all of it promised an evening I wouldn't forget.

The warmth from the wine, amplified by the heated water, was dizzying.

With a playful smirk, Archer gently swirled the wine in his glass, allowing the deep ruby liquid to dance against the translucent edges.

"This, Becca, is a rather sensual wine," he began, his voice dripping with mischief, matching the wine's allure. "It's a 2015 Pinot Noir from a vineyard notorious for producing wines that... well, let’s just say they're known to stimulate the senses."

I smiled. The sight of a big bruiser like Archer eloquently explaining the finer points of wine always made me grin.

He leaned a bit closer, and I could feel the heat emanating from his body, contrasting with the cool breeze of the night. "Notice its legs," he motioned toward the wine, letting it glide down the side of the glass. "Long, slender, and incredibly seductive." His gaze met mine with a wink.

I took a sip, and its warmth spread across my tongue.

"The first thing you'll probably notice," he continued, "is the soft, velvety texture. It's supple, wrapping around your palate much like a lover's embrace." He raised an eyebrow teasingly, making my cheeks flush.

"But it's not just about the initial touch," he whispered, leaning even closer. "It’s about the layers. Dark cherries, blackberries, a hint of vanilla – it's complex, but every layer is perfectly balanced. A dance of flavors, each step bringing you deeper and deeper into its embrace, making you yearn for more."

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