Disclaimer: I do not own the characters. The plot is my own.


Chapter 17

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The vast community college auditorium buzzed with the chatter of families, teachers, and students gathered for the ceremony. This had been my old stomping ground after high school, where I'd spent a year studying nursing—until everything changed.

The seats below were packed, but I chose the upper balcony. The crowd felt overwhelming—too much energy, too many familiar faces. Past alumni, old teachers, people who might recognize me. I did okay in school, never the top of my class, but if you asked me where I ranked, I couldn't tell you. Instead, I settled into the quiet corner, watching from above, allowing myself the space to breathe.

I had texted Edward and Jacob, letting them know where I was. We had all come in separate cars. I was the one who brought Seth. Jacob had an emergency at the shop early in the morning but promised he'd make it. Edward, despite his packed schedule, had taken the time when I told him about it.

As I sat there, my mind drifted back to last week's session. The feeling still lingered—uneasy, like the dust hadn't quite settled. My chest tightened at the thought. That door, the one I had locked away in the cellar of my subconscious, was starting to bow under everything I had tried to keep inside.

Thankfully, the ceremony was starting, pulling me from my thoughts.

Seth's class emerged in crisp white gowns, gold tassels swinging with each step. Some had decorated their caps with intricate drawings or little messages—expressions of their personalities, their aspirations. The sight tugged at my heart, a mix of pride and nostalgia swelling in my chest. Seth had always marched to his own beat, and seeing him in that moment—on the edge of something new—made me realize just how far he'd come.

I gnawed on my lip, watching them line up at the front, the crowd's excited murmurs filling the air.

Then, I heard it. My name, barely rising above the noise.

"Leah!"

A voice I recognized immediately—Jacob's.

I turned and saw both Jacob and Edward walking toward me, looking out of place in the best way possible. Jacob's long hair was tied up in a neat bun, and he wore a crisp white dress shirt with deep blue slacks that made his dark eyes stand out. He had that effortlessly rugged charm that I hadn't taken much notice of before.

Edward, though… Edward could wear anything and still make my breath catch. He was dressed in a sharp suit, the fabric hugging his body in all the right places. His presence, that easy confidence, was enough to make the world seem a little smaller.

I smirked as they approached, not able to help myself. "You both look dapper."

Edward grinned and nodded at me, his arm slipping around my waist with ease. His warmth radiated through me, and I instinctively pressed closer. "Wouldn't miss it for the world," he murmured, his voice low and familiar.

Jacob rolled his eyes, but there was a softness there. He looked at me, but his attention kept drifting toward the students down below. "You see him?" he asked, his gaze shifting as he stood near us, arms crossed. He scanned the crowd before his eyes found Seth.

I didn't need to look twice to spot Seth. I could always find him in a crowd. His tall, lanky frame stood out among the others. I pointed toward the sea of white gowns. "Down there. Tall, lanky ass."

Jacob snorted at my description, though a proud smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "He looks excited," he said, his voice a little softer now, the edge of sarcasm gone.

I smiled, my heart swelling. "He does."

Edward's fingers brushed through the ends of my curls, sending a shiver down my spine. A warmth spread through my chest, and for a moment, my smile wavered, just a little.

"You don't want to get closer?" Jacob asked, raising an eyebrow, still eyeing the students below. His voice was casual, but I could sense the concern behind the question.

I glanced back down at Seth, watching him fidget with his gown as he scanned the crowd. "I just didn't want to bump into anyone, y'know?" I said quietly, a soft shrug following my words. Then, a thought crossed my mind. "You can get closer if you want," I added, offering it like a casual suggestion.

Jacob stared at me for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, as if the thought drifted away, he nodded.

"Uh, yeah, okay." His grin was a little forced, but he tried his best to make it look warm. "I'll go find a closer spot." He turned and headed off toward a more central seat, his tall figure weaving through the crowd.

Once Jacob was out of earshot, my eyes met Edward's. And in that moment, the buzz of excitement around us, the sea of faces, faded into the background. It felt like the world had shrunk to just us two. With his hand resting comfortably on my waist, I allowed myself to simply exist in that space, with him beside me. The warmth of his presence next to mine, the gentle touch of his fingers in my hair, made everything feel right—like the world outside was too complicated, too loud to matter.

The proceedings started not long after, the valedictorian stepping up to the podium with a speech that felt very rehearsed. Words about the future, about leaving behind the safety of school and stepping into the unknown. The crowd clapped, students cheered. But none of it really registered. My gaze was fixed on Seth, my heart pounding as I watched him find his place among his peers, standing tall and proud.

The students were called in alphabetical order, each name ringing out as they stepped forward to receive their diplomas. The ceremony was a blur of names, faces, and clapping, until finally, the announcer called, "Seth Clearwater."

I couldn't contain the excitement. Edward and I immediately broke into applause, cheering as loud as we could. My heart raced in that split second when Seth stood up, his tall figure moving through the crowd. He walked with purpose, his gold tassel swinging from his graduation cap, and I couldn't have been prouder.

The crowd erupted in cheers, classmates celebrating together.

But I could hear Jacob's voice above the rest, booming, "THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT!" His voice rang through the air, unmistakable, full of pride.

Edward and I continued clapping, my hands sore from the intensity of my excitement. I watched Seth step onto the stage with a smile that made everything feel worth it. The speeches blurred together after that, each one more formulaic than the last, but I couldn't tear my eyes away from my brother.

In the quiet of the upper balcony, with Edward's steady presence beside me, I let myself focus on that singular moment—the pride swelling inside me for my brother, for everything he had accomplished, and for how far he'd come.

Finally.

Edward had to leave, work stuff and making last minute preparations for the trip.

Jacob and I took Seth out to eat afterwards—his choice. Naturally, he picked Jack in the Box. Simplicity at its finest. Out of all the options in the world, that's what he wanted.

As we sat down with our food, I decided it was as good a time as any to tell him about the money waiting for him when he turned twenty.

His eyes nearly popped out of his sockets. "Wait, like… how much?"

I smirked, taking a bite of my fries. "Enough."

He leaned in, practically vibrating with curiosity. "Like, a couple thousand? Tens of thousands? A hundred—"

"Stop guessing," I cut in, shaking my head. "You'll see it when you can show me you're responsible enough to handle it. You'll only have access to it when you turn twenty."

Seth huffed, but I could see the gears turning in his head. He was excited, even if he tried to play it cool.

Across the table, Jacob kept shooting me suspicious glances between bites of his burger. He was clearly wondering where the money came from, probably making all kinds of assumptions. Technically, it was thanks to Edward. But when I first took that money, I never expected to be in any kind of relationship with him.

Still, I was grateful. Even if Jacob's judgmental stares were burning a hole into the side of my head.

The next morning we had to head to an appointment for Seth.

We'd agreed that he wasn't to start the Zoloft until after we got back from our trip. After Seth had been excused I'd have to detail that to Foreman—make sure he and Cohen were on the same page.

Foreman was looking older by the day. Poor guy was working himself to the bone, but I could tell he enjoyed his job. Gave him a social life. A reason to fret over something.

After our discussions about Seth, he gave me a pointed look. His wrinkles folding over one another. I already had a feeling of knowing what was about to come out of his mouth.

"You going to your next session?" he asked, his voice was casual but with that underlying concern I couldn't ignore.

I scoffed, leaning back against the wall. "Please, can we keep this about Seth?"

"Leah..." He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck, his tired eyes narrowing in on me. "I just want you to keep an open mind. Therapy can help, even when it feels mundane."

I crossed my arms, fighting the urge to roll my eyes. "I'll think about it when I'm drinking out of a coconut somewhere sunny."

Foreman chuckled, but I could tell he wasn't letting go of the topic that easily. His expression softened a bit. "I'm happy you're going on vacation. It's important, really. But, just... keep in mind that talking could help. It's not about solving everything at once, just taking the first step."

I gave him a half-hearted smile. "I'll keep that in mind, Doc."

He studied me for a moment, then gave a small nod. "Alright... I'm glad you're both getting a break."

..

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I did end up missing a call from Rivera that Friday—a no-call, no-show on my part. But even in her message, she didn't push. She wasn't offended, just said to give her a call if I wanted to continue the appointments.

I'd probably think more about going back after this little vacation. Meeting Edward's mom felt like a significant step, a moment that would bring a sense of closure in some way. Edward spoke about her endlessly, always with warmth and admiration. Not so much about his dad. But from everything he had shared, she seemed like a free spirit—someone I could actually look forward to meeting.

For now, I just needed time to think about my next session. That was all. Because if Seth could keep persevering—doing the work, pushing through even the harder days—then I know I could too. It wouldn't just disappear, but it could become bearable.

While Jacob brought Seth to his session. Edward and I had gone shopping, preparing for the Florida trip.

"I feel so out of sorts," I sighed, running my fingers over a rack of dresses, barely giving them a chance.

Edward stood nearby, holding a few items for me to try on. He was catching on to my comfort levels. Knowing I'd rather be in sweats than a short tight dress. As sexy as I felt in the skimpy wear, it just wasn't my favorite. The heels associated with dressing that way were incredibly uncomfortable to wear as well.

Among the pieces he'd grabbed, I spotted two oversized sweaters and some gym shorts—things I'd actually wear. But buried beneath them was a silky white fabric, and in the mix, a few bikinis. I shot him a look.

He just smirked.

"What's wrong?" he asked, his voice warm, but his sharp green eyes filled with concern.

I exhaled deeply, finally meeting his gaze. "Just… a lot going on in my head."

He followed me as I moved to the next rack, his presence solid, grounding. "Do you want to talk about it?" he asked gently.

I gave a fleeting glance over my shoulder, hesitating. "Here?"

We both stopped. He tilted his head slightly, studying me. "Wherever you're comfortable, baby." His voice was low, intimate, like he was ready to drop everything the second I needed him to.

I swallowed, torn between brushing it off and letting myself lean into him. "I don't know," I admitted. "It's just... everything. The trip, Seth, my bullshit—" I paused, fingers toying with the hem of a dress. "I feel like I'm dropping the ball, even when I'm trying to hold it all together."

Edward stepped closer, lowering his voice. "You're not dropping anything, Leah. You're allowed to have a moment to breathe."

I exhaled slowly, letting my forehead rest against his chest for a second before pulling away. "I know," I murmured. "I just don't know how to turn it all off."

His fingers grazed my arm, a gentle reassurance. "Then let me help."

I almost wanted to snap like a rubber band then. For no apparent reason other than my insecurities. "How can you know how to when you're probably still in love with someone else?"

The question caught him off guard. He blinked, then let out a short, almost disbelieving laugh. "We've already talked about this, Leah."

My gaze dropped, a gnawing ache in my chest. I turned to walk away, but before I could take more than a step, he spun me back around, his grip firm but careful, forcing me to meet his gaze.

"That was then," he said, his voice steady, unwavering. "And I told you all that shit on the boat that day, I regret ever saying that—because right now, that love is yours."

I shivered, swallowing hard, my throat tightening with emotions I couldn't quite put a name on. His arms wrapped around me, holding me against him in the quiet boutique. He hummed softly, his lips pressing against the top of my head, fingers tangling in my hair.

"I promise you that since we met, I haven't thought about anybody else but you," he murmured.

I squeezed my eyes shut, gripping onto his jacket. "How do I believe that?" I whispered, not meaning to say it out loud.

He pulled back just enough to cradle my face in his hands, his thumbs brushing over my cheeks. "Because I'm still here, Leah. I fought my feelings those first two contracted dates, tried to keep it just business—but as you can tell, that didn't work. I'm in this. With you."

I let out a shaky breath, looking into those green eyes that had become so familiar, so safe. But deep down, that doubt still lingered.

Even later, as I tried on the clothes and bikinis for him in the privacy of my bedroom, I did my best to seem excited. And I was, but my stomach twisted itself into knots.

Then he pulled out that silky white fabric. A satin cowl-neck mini dress.

By the time I'd gotten it on, Edward's gorgeous seafoam eyes darkened with hunger for me. His fingers flexed as he lay on my bed, like he was restraining himself, aching to slip the thin straps back over my shoulders.

He got up stepping closer, his breath a hair away from mine.

I brushed my lips against his, a teasing hum escaping me as his hand found my breast—squeezing, rubbing, my peaks becoming solid. I gasped against his mouth, parting for him, my tongue meeting his in a slow, deliberate dance. Wanting to taste him, and feel the high I get every time we end up like this.

"You. Are. Divine," he rasped against my lips, his voice causing a tremor across my skin.

Later that night I served him a bowl of leftover shrimp fried rice. We'd eventually fallen asleep, tangled against one another as we did.

The weekend came swiftly, and work had been exhausting—filled with endless questions from Angela throughout the whole Sunday shift.

"Okay, but like, this is all-inclusive?" she asked, leaning on the counter as I prepped to clock out.

I nodded, my cheeks burning as I struggled to hold back my smile. Just five more minutes.

"And you didn't invite me?" she teased, crossing her arms.

I smirked, shaking my head. "Next time."

"Damn," she huffed, shaking her head. "Well, you need to hook me up with one of his friends. He sounds like a keeper."

Before I could respond, Emmett strode over, wiping his hands on a rag as he eyed Angela with a grin. "Leah, you setting Angela up? Because if so, I'm available. I offer a full-service. Comes with muscle, charm, and, if you're lucky, a little hands-on protection." He flexed, flashing an exaggerated wink.

Angela rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the amused smile tugging at her lips. "Oh, please. You couldn't handle me, big guy."

Emmett let out a low chuckle, leaning on the counter. "Try me, sweetheart. I can guard more than just club doors."

She shook her head, laughing as she grabbed her purse. "Yeah, yeah. Keep dreaming, muscle man."

I snorted, shaking my head as I finally clocked out. "You two should just get a room already."

Angela scoffed, waving me off. "I have standards, Leah."

Emmett clutched his chest in mock offense. "Ouch. That one hurt."

"You'll live," she shot back before nudging me. "Alright, go enjoy your trip, be safe, don't do anything I wouldn't do, if you go to jail, be sure to assert dominance," she smiled brightly. "And seriously, find me a rich friend."

I just laughed, waving as I made my way out, feeling the excitement bubbling beneath my exhaustion.

Monday came quickly—too quickly. The day started in a frenzy.

Seth woke me up at one in the morning, running back and forth in excitement as he scrambled to pack. Never mind that I had told him to pack ahead of time—nothing like a last-minute Susan.

Jacob called early to let me know he'd meet us at the airport. Meanwhile, Seth was in his room, shoving things around and slamming items into his suitcase like he was afraid we'd leave without him.

As I watched him, my stomach twisted. I decided to warn Jacob when he eventually called the house phone.

"We need to keep an eye on Seth during this trip."

Jacob sighed. "Oh, here you go worrying, as usual."

I sucked in a sharp breath. "You know I'm serious, Jacob. Before you started stepping in to help, his recklessness was getting worse. Just because he's simmered down lately doesn't mean it's gone."

"He'll be fine," Jacob said dismissively. "I'll be there. Don't get your panties in a wad, Clearwater."

There was a slight pause.

"Damn, you think you could sew up my swim trunks for me?"

"What? Now?" I asked, incredulous. "I'm not fucking Becky Home-Ecky. We have to be at the airport sooner rather than later, dude."

He grumbled something inaudible. "Fuck, fine. I'll just pack basketball shorts."

"Wonderful," I muttered. "See you soon."

Just as I hung up, Seth darted out of his room, waving two different pairs of sneakers.

"Which ones? These are newer, but these are more comfortable," he asked, practically vibrating with excitement.

I rubbed my face. "Seth, it's not that deep. Pick one."

He huffed, then muttered, "Guess I'll bring both."

I rolled my eyes, but the sight of his excitement softened me. He deserved this trip. We all did.

I took a quick shower, letting the warm water help me relax a bit before I got dressed. A simple black skirt and a loose brown shirt felt just right. Comfortable but still a step up from what I might usually wear.

Flying private was a whole new world to me, and it was hard to shake the feeling that I was in some sort of dream. It didn't quite seem real—like this was all just a momentary fantasy that would disappear once we landed.

Seth, ever the reluctant traveler, wasn't keen on the idea of a six-hour flight, so I gave him a Hydroxyzine on the way to the airport—leftover from the old prescription. He didn't put up much of a fight, agreeing that he'd probably sleep through most of the ride, and honestly, I was relieved.

By the time we reached the airport, my head was spinning a little. I wasn't sure if private jet travel still involved the usual TSA routine. I imagined it was a lot more relaxed, but I had no real idea.

Edward was already there waiting for us when we arrived at the long-term parking garage. He'd rented a sleek, black SUV to pick us up. The sight of it made everything feel real. As he got out of the vehicle, his smile widened when he saw me and Seth.

"Ready for this?" he asked, a spark of excitement in his eyes. He gave me a hug, pulling me in tight, before pressing a quick kiss to my cheek, then my lips.

"Ready," I said, trying to match his enthusiasm even though my heart was pounding a bit.

Seth was practically bouncing with excitement as he hopped into the SUV, his earlier frustration forgotten. Jacob appeared shortly after, pushing a cart with Kujo's crate perched on top. The dog was already knocked out, his body curled up peacefully inside.

"I gave him a pill with a slice of salami," Jacob said, grinning. "He's been out like a light since."

I laughed softly, shaking my head. "Good thinking."

"Alright, let's get this show on the road," Edward said as he led us to the SUV.

Jacob busied himself with his pup, placing him in the back of the trunk.

The ride to the tarmac was smooth, the SUV's engine purring softly as we drove. Edward had a way of making everything feel effortless, his excitement about the trip almost infectious. The closer we got to the jet, the more surreal it all felt.

When we arrived, we were dropped off just near the jet, which was parked on the tarmac, gleaming under the bright sun. The crew was already waiting for us, standing at the entrance to the plane, ready to assist us on board.

We didn't have to go through any security checks, no TSA, nothing like the usual chaotic rush at the airport. Private flying was a whole different world.

Edward led us up the small staircase to the jet's entrance, his hand on my back guiding me in.

"Kujo's crate goes in the cabin," Edward said as Jacob followed behind with the dog. "We'll keep him nice and comfortable."

Once we were all settled on board, I couldn't help but feel a little awestruck. The interior of the jet was sleek and elegant—soft leather seats, polished wood, and the perfect balance of natural light coming through the windows. It was quiet, spacious, and just… different from anything I'd ever known.

Seth immediately sprawled out in one of the plush seats, his excitement clearly bubbling over. Jacob was already setting up Kujo's crate, making sure the dog was settled.

Seth and Jacob sat across from each other, the spacious cabin giving them plenty of room to stretch out. Edward and I took the seats nearest the flight cabin, where the quiet hum of the jet's engines added to the relaxed atmosphere.

The takeoff was smooth, so smooth it felt like we were floating. No bumps, no turbulence—just effortless ascent. Seth was exhausted, and it didn't take long for him to drift off, his head resting against the plush seat, his breathing slow and steady.

Over time I did notice Jacob, however, seemed a little more… distant. I couldn't quite place it, but there was something about him that seemed off, like he was caught between being grateful for the luxurious trip and irritated by Edward's wealth. His eyes kept flicking to Edward every now and then, his discomfort apparent, though he said nothing.

I noticed it, of course. I've come to know Jacob more than I've desired, and I knew that despite his mostly laid-back, douchebag nature, he had his hang-ups—especially when it came to Edward. But I wasn't going to start any drama. Not today. Not when we're minutes from being in the air.

I didn't want to ruin the excitement. Not with my brothers' babysitter acting like he had just swallowed a lemon. So, I kept my mouth shut, just focusing on the trip ahead. It was time to relax, to let go, and leave the tension behind for a while.

He chugged a bottle of water, then leaned back and sprawled out on the credenza, making himself comfortable in the back. His long legs took up more space than they should have, but no one seemed to mind.

Edward turned to me, his fingers brushing against my arm, and kissed my temple softly. "Thank you for letting me convince you to do this," he murmured, his voice low and sincere.

I smiled, my head leaning into his shoulder. "Thank me when we're touching Floridian land, please," I said, unable to fully relax just yet. My nerves were still a little on edge, like there was something about the trip I couldn't fully embrace.

Edward chuckled, the sound a warm, reassuring comfort. "Deal. But just so you know, I'm really glad you said yes."

I glanced up at him, watching the soft glow of the cabin lights reflect in his eyes. "Me too," I admitted quietly.

After a bit I'd gotten up to go use the bathroom, shutting the door behind me—

I had been thinking too much again. Feeling happy, but deep down, this gut-wrenching fear would grip me. Like if I let myself be happy, it'd be ripped away from me. I could reassure myself with Edward's consistency, the way he showered me in attention, in care. Uncertain thoughts would intrude in my thoughts from time to time.

After finishing and washing my hands, I heard the door slide open. My heart skipped a beat, my breath catching as I turned—Edward stood there, his striking beauty hitting me like a wave.

"What are you doing?" I asked, my voice a little breathless as I dried my hands, trying to steady myself.

He smirked, leaning lazily against the doorframe. "Gotta pee," he said simply, but his bright green eyes flicked to mine with a knowing glint.

Before I could move, he slipped past me, his body brushing mine in the tight space, and closed the door behind him. Trapping us inside.

I raised a brow. "Okay, Fabio," I said, crossing my arms as I tried to ignore the sudden heat curling through me. "This isn't the mile-high club."

Edward's smirk deepened, his gaze dragging down my body and back up—slow, deliberate. "Wanna join?" he asked, his voice low and teasing, but there was something else beneath it. Something darker, sexy.

I pressed a hand against his chest, meaning to create space, but he didn't budge. His warmth, his scent—clean, masculine, mixed with the faintest trace of cologne—wrapped around me. My fingers curled slightly against the fabric of his shirt before I caught myself.

"My brother is feet away," I reminded him, though my pulse betrayed me.

Edward hummed, his hands finding my hips, thumbs stroking the fabric of my dress in slow, hypnotic circles. "Everyone's passed out except for the pilots," he murmured, tilting his head, his lips dangerously close to my ear. "And I'm very good at keeping quiet. You, on the other hand…" His smirk widened as his fingers pressed just a little firmer into my hips.

I swallowed hard, my resolve thinning by the second. "That's not the issue."

He leaned in, his breath warm against my skin. "Then what is?" His fingers flexed slightly. "I want to help you relax."

I hesitated. My mind screamed at me to be rational. But my body? My body wasn't listening.

Edward took advantage of my pause, dipping his head, his lips brushing over the sensitive spot just below my ear. A slow, deliberate kiss. Then another, trailing down to the curve of my neck.

A sharp breath escaped me as he kissed and caressed my skin, his tongue flicking out to tease. I felt the hard planes of his body press against mine, the confined space making it impossible not to.

"Still thinking?" he murmured against my neck, his voice thick with amusement and something else—something that sent a shiver straight down my spine.

I bit my lip. "Shut up," I muttered, even as my hands slid up his chest, my fingers curling around the collar of his shirt, pulling him closer.

His chuckle was low, pleased. "Gladly."

And then he kissed me—deep, slow, and unhurried. Like he had all the time in the world. I jumped up, wrapping my legs around his waist, tasting him further, trying to keep the noise level down. He caught me effortlessly, his hands gripping my ass, holding me up. My skirt bunched at my thighs as he pressed me against the wall, breaking the kiss to speak.

"You have no idea how much I need you," he whispered into my ear, his breath hot and ragged. He began to suck on my neck, his teeth grazing my skin.

"Fuck it," I murmured, giving in to the intoxicating pull of him.

He shifted slightly, pulling my underwear to the side and lining the crown of his cock up with my entrance. I was ready—more than ready.

I let my head fall back against the wall, my breath coming in shallow gasps. He smirked at me, and without another word, he thrust into me in one swift motion. His face buried into my neck as we both groaned at the connection, with me adjusting to his size. I was relaxed immediately with a deep, breathy moan.

"So tight," he breathed, his voice strained.

I fought the urge to cry out his name. He held me firmly against the wall, his hips moving in a slow, steady rhythm. He was being careful, but I could feel the tension in his muscles, the restraint he was fighting to maintain.

My head tilted forward, my lips brushing against his neck as I placed soft kisses along his heated skin. "You like that?" I whispered, my nails raking lightly through his hair.

He nodded, his breath hot against my shoulder. "I love it. I love how you feel around me."

His pace quickened, his pumps growing more urgent. He bit down on my shoulder, muffling a groan as his movements became frenzied. Like we couldn't last long enough, so we had to cling to the pleasure.

I whimpered as my nails scratched under the collar of his V-neck, feeling the heat of his skin against my hands. We were both lost in each other, completely consumed by the pleasure we were sharing.

"You were made for me," he huffed, using one hand to reach over to rub circles on my nub, eager to make me come first. I tried my best to muffle my own moans and whimpers, but a sudden turbulence reminded us of where we were.

I hushed us. My muscles tense. My thighs burning in the most glorious way possible.

He looked at me, his face blushed as he chuckled. "You have to be quiet," he teased, his pace slowing down slightly.

I smiled. "I want to feel your cock as deep as it can go," I murmured, the words slipping out of my lips as ours met briefly. A fleeting taste.

He groaned, his hands slipping slightly as he pushed himself deeper, burying to the hilt. He held me up with one hand, the other flicking my clit. I began to shake, knowing I was so close.

"You're so perfect. Pinned against the wall, full of me. You're mine."

"Fuck," I whimpered, my head tilting back again. His cock filled me so completely, so perfectly. I could feel him in every way.

"You're gonna come for me, aren't you? Gonna come all over me?" He began to fill me up harder again, hitting my sweet spot with every movement as my breath baited, nodding as he gave me beautiful affirmations.

He leaned in, hearing my moans grumbling in my throat. Kissing my tears away, his hips still bucking at a fierce pace. I felt myself clenching, my body turning rigid as I reached my limit. He whispered encouragements in my ear, his own voice strained with the effort of holding back. He buried his face into my neck, muffling his own sounds as I came undone around him. Waves over taking me as he continued to massage my inner walls.

My nails scraped through his hair as I breathed near his ear, "You gonna let me milk that cock?"

He shuddered, a low growl escaping him. He nodded against me, unable to speak for a few more thrusts. "Y-yes, baby."

He couldn't hold back anymore. With a final, deep thrust, he spilled over, his breath ragged as he held me close. Our lips met in another slow, lingering kiss, neither of us ready to let go just yet. I noticed the impatience in those magnificent green eyes. What little I could see of them was almost swallowed up by his dilated pupils.

But reality snapped back hard.

A sharp knock at the door made us both freeze, our faces instantly flushing.

"Hello! Don't give a shit, but I actually have to use the restroom!" Jacob's voice rang through the door.

I exhaled sharply, pressing a hand to my face. Thank God it wasn't Seth.

"Fuck, Jacob, give me a minute!" I snapped, my irritation immediate and sharp.

Edward stifled a chuckle, shaking his head as he quickly tucked himself away, adjusting his pants. I straightened my skirt, smoothing it down as I glanced up at him. "You should go first," I muttered, grimacing.

He smirked knowingly. "Walk of shame?"

"Exactly."

Edward gave me one last look before sliding the door open and stepping out. Jacob was perched on the credenza, arms crossed, looking thoroughly unimpressed.

"Jesus, finally," Jacob muttered as Edward walked past him, not bothering to hide his amusement.

I took a moment to wash my face and hands, hoping to erase any lingering evidence before stepping out.

The second I did, Jacob shot me an aggravated look. His brow arched, and he tilted his head slightly, unimpressed.

I sighed. "Don't."

Jacob scoffed. "Leah, really?" He gestured vaguely toward my brother who was still passed out in the club chair.

"Jacob." My voice held a warning.

He shook his head, pushing off the credenza. "I just needed to take a piss, not get scarred for life," he grumbled.

I rolled my eyes, about to brush past him when he added, "Seriously, Clearwater, at least have the decency to put a sign on the door or something. I don't need to be out here wondering if I'm about to walk in on a damn porno shoot."

My face burned as I gawked at him. "Jacob!"

He just smirked, stepping into the bathroom. "No decency," he commented before shutting the door.

I sighed, rubbing my temples.

We're gonna all act like none of that happened.

...

..

.