{TRIGGER WARNING! EXPLICIT CONTENT! DO NOT READ IF YOU CAN'T HANDLE IT, THANK YOU! Otherwise, enjoy!}



I roll over and realize that the bed is empty. He left already...

When I open my eyes and notice a piece of paper on his pillow, I reach out and unfold it.

ʜᴇ'ʟʟ ꜱᴇᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴀʟᴛᴀʀ

I can't help but smile as I think about everything Leon has planned out for them today, and hope that they're enjoying their time together since they won't be seeing each other for a while.

I get out of bed and head to the bathroom so that I can brush my teeth and wash my face a bit, before heading downstairs.

Just as I get to the bottom of the stairs, the front door swings open and Brandon rushes in. 'Hello, beautiful bride-to-be!'

He's followed by Isabelle, my mom, Celine, Victoria, Vincent, Kai, and Neveah, who are all carrying something inside.

'Goodmorning, I hope you slept well?' My mom asks as she nudges me towards the living room. 'I did, how are you feeling? Tired from yesterday or-' 'Mi amor, I'm perfectly fine.'

Right... She's totally not dying on the inside because of cancer... Totally...

I feel sick as I stay right by her side, not wanting to leave her at all.

But I promised her I would not think about it for too much. At least until after the wedding

I'm still wearing my pajama and wonder why they're here already because Veah said I didn't have to get ready until twelve or something.

'That's good,' I say as I stretch my arms out and head to the kitchen to grab something to drink, 'am I late, or are you guys early?'

'What do you mean?' Isabelle asks as she follows me closely, a bright smile on her face. 'I'm barely dressed and everyone's here already.'

'We're just- Neveah, you didn't tell her yet?' Isa asks, looking at Neveah, who's staring at her strangely.

'First of all, good morning Leya.' She chimes as she turns to me with a smile, 'Second, I hope you slept enough because it's going to be a long day. And third, if you want to get changed you can, or I could tell you what we have planned first.'

She has been so secretive about all of this, that I'm kind of completely left in the dark about everything she planned for today.

But I trust her. And I know I'll have the time of my life.

'Tell me what you have planned so that I can pick an outfit based on that.' I say before I take a sip from my bottle. 'Alright, I basically gave everyone a part of the day and let them fill it in so that we could all have a great time together.'

What? I stare at my mom and watch as she smiles excitedly, before turning to the others. 'You mean-'

'I told you it's a stupid idea.' Kai mutters, shoving Veah a little, but she rolls her eyes and takes a step away from him. 'Don't touch me, she'll like it.'

'Wait so- Who are we talking about?' I ask, a little confused, even though my heart is racing.

'So Celine has the morning, which is now, then comes Brandon, then me, your mom wanted to do dinner, and then Isabelle took the night.' She continues as she helps the others put everything down.

They all brought food on platters. Freshly cut fruits, warm bread, a bunch of juices, and some cakes.

'We all planned it out and I hope you'll like it.' She states as she turns me to Celine, who's smiling brightly at me while she's holding a small jewelry box in her hands.

'I didn't know what to get, so I did some research.' She chimes proudly, before handing the box to me.

It's a black velvet box, something that looks a lot like the one Rio had when he proposed to me, but it's bigger.

'You really didn't have to get me any gifts.' She shakes her head at me and looks at the black box in my hands. 'Just open it.'

I roll my eyes and can't stop smiling as I open the small box.

Inside is a pearly bracelet with between every three pearls a little ring of diamonds.

My eyes widen at the piece of jewelry in the small box and I look up at Celine.

'Do you like it?' She asks curiously as I stare at her with wide eyes. 'How can I not?!'

'Let me see!' Brandon chimes as he looks at the box inside my hands, his eyes widening a bit as well when he sees the bracelet.

'It's so pretty Celine!' She takes it out of the box and places it on my wrist.

'Pearls are the symbol of wisdom. Something you have and something you'll need if you're going to marry into this mess of a family.' She says as she makes sure the bracelet is secured.

'It's beautiful, thank you so much!' I can't stop smiling again as I take her in my arms and hug her tightly, 'Thank you so much!'

'You're welcome!' Neveah lifts my arm to look at the bracelet from up close, and smiles at me, 'Now for my activity, I decided we'll watch some fast and furious movies during breakfast?'

'Why fast and furious if I might ask?' Isabelle asks, looking at the bracelet as well.

'Probably because it's her favorite.' My mother answers as she takes over almost the entire kitchen.

'They're the best racing movies to exist.' I say as some agree with me. 'What about Cars?'

We all turn to the soft voice coming from next to my mom.

'I agree with Victoria,' Vincent chimes, lifting her up on the counter, 'Cars is the best.'

'Are you down to watch the first movie?' Celine asks with a bright smile on her face. I nod and tell them to set everything up while I change into something that I can walk outside in.

A creme flowy summer dress that I laid out for today. I try doing my hair as well, but it won't work with me, so I just put it in a bun and head back down.

'Took you long enough!' Brandon jokes, knowing that he takes way longer than any of us do.

'Start the movie!' I jump next to Veah and get comfortable on the couch before she hands me a plate filled with all the food they just brought in.

After watching the first two movies and eating a lot of food, we clean up and head to the front door for Brandon's part of the day.

'For my activity, we'll go shopping.' He states as if we don't have enough clothes yet.

'Brandon, I think we all have enough clothes.' I say as I let him drag me towards the van Kai drives when he takes us from a to b.

'You can never have enough clothes, plus you are going on a honeymoon so you'll need new clothes.' He shoves me into the van and waves at the guys who are staying by the door, making me wonder why they aren't with Marco, Leon, or Rio.

Victoria stays right by my mom and smiles at us brightly, before running off inside.

'They aren't coming?' Everyone shakes their heads and we all turn to Veah who's sitting behind the wheel.

'Buckle up bitches, we're going shopping!' Brandon chimes as he turns up the music a bit.

I lean over and turn it down, making him frown at me.

'I truly appreciate the gesture, be we really don't need to go shopping. I have enough clothes already.'

Brandon sighs deeply and almost climbs over his seat to grab me by my shoulders. 'Like I said, you can never have enough clothes! And I will pay for everything today.'

Dear god...

'Brandon-' 'Technically Rio pays, because he pays us all, so that would mean you will also pay since you will marry him tomorrow and everything he owns will become yours as well, but you know- I'll pay.' He rambles while Neveah starts the car and drives us to the mall.

'I love you guys.' I say, smiling again.

I will pay for my own stuff and I'll only buy some shoes, but that's it. I don't need any more clothes.

We shop for at least two hours and end up with at least two bags each. And just as we're leaving, Celine pulls me into a shop filled with swimsuits and bikinis.

'What are you-' 'You need one of these for Veah's part of the day.' She says with a big smile on her face. 'A swimsuit?'

She nods and starts searching for one I might like. 'I have some at home.'

'We're not going home yet.' I sigh and shake my head in disbelief before walking over to her.

'And you have to apply some sunscreen because you don't want to be burned in any of the pictures.' Isabelle chimes as she enters the shop as well.

After searching for a simple affordable swimsuit, I end up with a glittery white one that has a low back.

'Okay, we'll pay, go put it on!' Celine chimes as she shoves me towards the fitting rooms. 'Right now?' 'Yes!' They shout in unison, making me roll my eyes.

I head over to the fitting rooms and put on the swimsuit, looking at myself in the mirror for a second.

Tomorrow is the big day...

I'm going to get married to the man I love more than anything else in the world.

And my mom has cancer...

I try to shake the thoughts away but it's impossible.

I can't just act like it doesn't exist, like my mom isn't slowly dying.

There's nothing else I can do according to the doctors, but I feel like they're wrong.

I know, it's stupid. They're doctors, they probably know what they're doing.

I just- 'Leya?' I hear Veah's voice from behind the curtains and quickly put on my dress, 'We paid for the swimsuit, are you ready?'

I take a deep breath and open the curtain, smiling at her before she pulls me in her arms.

'If you want to go home, we'll go home right now?' She whispers, probably noticing that I'm freaking out again.

No. I know how much time and effort she put into organizing today and I don't want to ruin it for her or myself for that matter.

'I'm fine. I know how much effort you put into today, so it's okay.' She shakes her head and leans back, just to look me in the eyes. 'Leya, if you want to spend time with your mom, I understand. I don't care if I gave my left lung to get everything ready for today, I understand.'

I chuckle and pull her back into my arms, hearing her chuckle as well. 'Keep both lungs, please. I need you alive and well.'

We both exhale slowly, probably both thinking about the same thing.

My mom and the fucked up disease called Leukemia that's slowly killing her on the inside.

'Promise me you'll tell me when you want to dip.' She says as she slowly lets go of me.

I let go of her as well and nod, hooking my arm around hers, before walking out of the shop.

We all head to the car, placing everything in the back, before driving off again.

'Where are we going now and do we have to walk because my feet are killing me.' I joke, making Isabelle turn to me. 'I'll carry you, you'll be fine.'

'We're going to a lake since the beach is a four-hour drive away.' A lake?

I look out of the window, wondering where this lake is in the first place.

After driving for almost an hour, she stops the car and hops out.

We're basically in the middle of nowhere, on a parking lot surrounded by trees.

'How did you even find out about this place?' I ask, watching as they all head to the back of the car to grab towels, baskets, and even pillows. 'Let me hel-' 'No! And I have my ways, come on.'

Veah nudges me away from everyone else, not allowing me to help to carry anything whatsoever before she walks straight into the forest.

'Go on.' Isabelle chimes, bumping into me with her basket as she walks behind me.

I follow Veah through a small path in the woods and can't help but stare at the lake in front of us.

Despite it being surrounded by trees and a lot of grass, the water is crystal clear.

'How did you-' 'I told you, I have my ways.' Veah chimes as she places down a huge blanket and the basket she was carrying.

Brandon does the same, throwing some pillows on there as well, before dropping down on it.

I can't stop looking around, finding new things every time I look around. There are flowers on the other side and I think I spot some bunnies on the right as well.

'Swim first or eat first?' Veah asks as she takes a seat as well.

Thinking about food, especially after such a big breakfast, is making me nauseous.

'Swim!' Isabelle shouts as she takes off her clothes, revealing an orange bikini she was apparently wearing underneath her clothes.

'I agree with her, it's too hot.' Celine chimes as she does the same and follows her into the water.

We watch as they run over to the edge, screaming because of how cold the water is, and I can't stop laughing when Isabelle falls into the water because she tripped over her own feet.

'I agree with Celine, but why did she run in like that?' Brandon asks as he rolls over and looks at us.

I shrug and take a seat next to him.

The sun is shining bright and there are barely any clouds in the sky.

I reach for my phone and see if anyone texted me. But no notifications apart from the weather.

'What are you doing?' Brandon asks, suddenly sitting up. He takes off his shirt and throws it to the side, before turning to me again. 'I'm just looking at my phone to see if anyone texted me.'

'Yeah right, you're probably thinking about Rio!' He teases, making me roll my eyes.

But he's not wrong.

I expected something from my mom or him.

'Maybe I am, maybe I'm not.' 'You're not allowed to talk to him!' Brandon exclaims, launching himself onto me.

I fall on my back and grunt when I feel his hard chest collide with mine. 'If Rio was here, he would kill you.' Veah chimes, laughing at us, 'But Brandon's right. No Rio for you till the altar.'

'Exactly.' Brandon chimes, smiling at me as he rolls off me and puts my phone in his pocket.

'You guys are dramatic.' Veah takes off her shirt as well, revealing a dark purple bathing suit, with straps crossing over her chest. 'It brings bad luck!'

'Since when do you believe in stuff like that?'

'Doesn't matter.' She mumbles as she struggles to pull her pants down.

I help her by pulling her jeans off entirely, making her stumble back, right into Brandon who was just getting up.

They both fall and I can't stop laughing at the way they just start blaming each other.

I take off my clothes as well and walk over to the lake, dipping my toes in the water.

It's cold but bearable.

After swimming around for a while, we all head back to our stuff and dry ourselves with the towels.

'I'll miss this.' Isabelle says as she snuggles up with Veah to keep herself warm. 'I will too.'

'You guys don't have to go, you know?' Brandon says, shrugging at them as if it's that easy.

'I'll for sure be back- if you guys let me of course.' Isabelle answers, looking at me. 'Of course, Isabelle, you're always welcome.'

I know Rio thinks differently, but I'll find a way to work with that.

'And what about you?' Brandon asks, turning to Veah. She looks at him for a second, probably screaming at him internally.

This topic is annoying all of us, but we have to talk about it at some point.

I just don't think today is the right moment.

'We'll talk about it after the wedding.' Celine intervenes, probably sensing the tension rising as well.

'But she's leaving in two-''Guys, please? Can we just enjoy this moment?' Brandon sighs deeply and nods, before wrapping his arm around Veah.

Veah pinches his arm before reaching for one of the baskets.

She opens the basket and takes out a huge lunchbox, before opening it.

'Chicken sandwiches.' No crust, some with lettuce, some without.

Her mom used to make sandwiches just like these for us when we were little. After her parent's death, she tried making them the exact way.

It took her a while to get it the exact same way, but she did it.

She hasn't made them in two years and I kind of thought she forgot about them.

'One without lettuce.' She says as she hands me one of the sandwiches.

'Thank you, Veah.' I reply, feeling something sting for a second.

I had so much fun so far and I can't believe they all planned it out like this, it's just perfect.

'You're welcome, I hope they didn't melt together in the car.' She jokes as she hands everyone else one as well.

She drops down next to me and takes one herself, before waiting for me to take the first bite.

I take a bite and let the familiar taste roam through my mouth, wanting to eat it all in one bite but at the same time save it until this day is over.

'You seriously make the best chicken sandwiches ever!' I exclaim as I throw my arm around her dramatically. 'I guess my mom's recipe is still the best.'

'You made these?' Brandon asks as he quickly takes another bite. 'You guys act like I can't cook!'

We all chuckle at Veah's frustration and take another bite. 'Is there honey in this?' Isabelle asks while she covers her mouth with one hand.

Veah nods, her eyes widening after a split second, 'You aren't allergic, are you?'

'To honey? No, I was just wondering.' I laugh at Veah when I notice her still freaking out about the honey, before finishing the sandwich and grabbing another one.

'I also got you this.' Veah says as she crawls over to the other basket and takes out a book, 'It's a bit cringe but I wanted you to have something to remember me by.'

I look at the front and brush my hand over the golden letters.

Leya & Veah

'I asked your mom to take some pictures from when we were younger.' She says as I open the first page.

Little Neveah and Cataleya, meeting in that stupid playground that nearly cost us our lives because of how many falls we had.

We were barely able to stand up for longer than five minutes, but we could run.

I smile at the picture, wondering how our parents would let us go out wearing the most unmatchable clothes ever.

"One of our first encounters." Is written underneath the picture, making me tear up for some reason.

We've known each other for twenty years.

Twenty long years.

But it's not long enough. And she's leaving, meaning she might not turn back.

'What do you think?' She asks, kneeling in front of me.

I look up and can't help but let a tear escape, before lunging at her as I take her in my arms.

'It's perfect.' I've only seen the first picture so far, but I just know I'll love it.

'You guys looked adorable!' Brandon chimes, apparently he got ahold of the book and he's looking at the picture as well. 'Can I see!'

We go through the book together and finish our lunch, before heading back to the house.

My mom made sure to make enough food for the rest of the day, leaving enough for the boys as well.

Just in case they come by and they're hungry.

She won't let me help clean anything and forces me back to my room like I'm still living under her roof.

But I follow her orders nonetheless.

When I get to my room, I notice a big box laying on the middle of the bed.

There's a note on top of it and I smile when I see who's name is on it.

Brandon.

I open the note and read it:

ᴛᴏᴍᴏʀʀᴏᴡ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇᴄᴏᴍᴇ ꜰᴀᴍɪʟʏ (ᴇᴠᴇɴ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀʟʀᴇᴀᴅʏ ᴀʀᴇ) ɪ ʜᴏᴘᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʟᴀꜱᴛ ɴɪɢʜᴛ ᴀꜱ ᴀ ᴠᴇʟᴇᴢ!

I open the box and reveal a sparkly rose-colored dress. When I lift it out of the box and flip it over, I notice the string in the back.

Of course Brandon picked something like this.

I take a quick shower and put on the dress, before quickly putting on some light make-up, since I don't know where we're going exactly.

'Are you done yet!?' Brandon shouts dramatically, making me smile as I head back downstairs.

Everyone is waiting in the foyer, as if I'm going to prom or something, and I can't stop smiling.

Celine is wearing an off-white dress that sticks to her skin like a magnet. She curled her hair a little and I don't think I've ever seen her like this before.

Isabelle is wearing a light pink dress that covers one of her shoulders while leaving out the other. There's a huge hole in the back, covered by some strings going through glittery hoops.

And Veah, she's wearing a dark blue silky top with a black skirt underneath it.

'You look so pretty!' Victoria shouts as she jumps around all of us. 'Thank you.' I smile at her and give her a small hug, before turning to the others.

'Thank you for the dress, Brandon.' He smiles and takes my hand, leading me to the door like a true gentleman, before turning to the others. 'Are you guys coming, or what?'

We all get in the car and drive towards the nearest town. When we park the car, everyone jumps out and turns to Isabelle.

'For my part of the day, we're going to party in one of the soon-to-be-your clubs,' She chimes as she hooks her arm around mine, 'The next time you'll be in here, will probably be for business.'

Brandon nods at the bouncers and they step to the side, letting us through without even asking any of us for anything.

We all follow Brandon up the stairs, leading to a private area on the first floor.

Neveah and Brandon disappear to the bar to order all of us some drinks, while Celine, Isabelle, and I take a seat on the comfortable couches.

After a few minutes, Brandon and Veah return with some drinks, telling us that there will be more.

'Truth or dare?' Isabelle asks, moving to the edge of her seat as she looks at Brandon. Are you kidding me?

'We're not playing-' 'Truth.' Brandon answers before taking a sip from his drink.

She thinks about it for a second as she looks around, getting more and more comfortable by the second.

I'm just glad the others are including her in everything.

The others, not including Rio because he thinks she's still working for Hunter.

'How many times a week do you and Killian have sex?' I almost spit out my drink and cough for a second, wondering how Isabelle can confidently ask such a question.

'Oh come on, we're not twelve.' She chimes, before turning back to Brandon.

'At least once a day.' He answers honestly, before turning to me. 'Truth or dare.'

'Truth?' I hope I won't regret this. 'If you had to kiss one of us here, who would you kiss?'

What? I take another sip and sit back, looking at everyone.

'I don't know... Probably Celine but we would both be drunk because it would make things awkward between us and she barely remembers anything after a glass.' I joke, making her roll her eyes. 'I'm not a lightweight.'

'If you say so,' Veah chimes before she turns to me, 'Your turn.'

We end up playing a few rounds, before heading down to dance and get some more drinks.

Isabelle dared Celine to grind on a random person for at least ten seconds, and she did, while Brandon was dared to take a shot out of Veah's belly button.

When Brandon, Celine, Isabelle, and I go back up the stairs, I can't stop laughing at Celine's excitement.

She's already drunk.

'Where's Veah?' I ask Brandon since she was with her last, and he points towards the bar.

Veah's ordering a platter of shots, patiently waiting for them to be filled. 'She shouldn't be alone-' 'I'll go help her!' Isabelle shouts as she jumps off her seat and almost stumbles over her own feet.

Brandon pulls her back and whispers something into her ear, grinning from ear to ear as he slowly lets go of her.

'Challenge accepted.' Isabelle chimes as she walks down the stairs, heading for Veah.

'What did you say?' I ask as I walk over to the railing to keep my eyes on them. 'I dared her to kiss her.'

My eyes widen and I look over at Brandon who's still smiling as he walks over to me, looking down as well.

'I want to see!' Celine shouts, rolling off the couch before she crawls our way.

I help her up and let her lean on me, before turning back to Veah and Isabelle.

They talk for a while before Isabelle places her hand on Veah's waist and quickly pulls her closer and then...

They kiss.

And it's not a short kiss either.

It's a solid fifteen seconds, not letting go of each other kiss.

Holy shit.

They both seem to enjoy it and I can't help but stare at them for a few seconds.

I notice Veah's cheeks glowing from all the way up here and wonder what's going through her mind right now.

The platter filled with shots was ready before they kissed and Isabelle takes it, probably because Veah is too stunned to move.

Isabelle pulls her along, back up the stairs, and places the platter on the table between us.

'That was hot!' Celine shouts as she grabs Veah by her shoulders and shakes her up a bit. 'I- Uhm... You guys saw that?'

We all nod and while the others take a shot, I follow Veah back to the railing. 'How was it?' I ask curiously, wondering if she liked it or not.

'Let's just say, she's a good kisser.' She says, still blushing like crazy as she scans through the room.

'You have to be fucking kidding me.' She mumbles when she looks down on the dancefloor.

I follow her gaze and notice Marco and Killian walking around on the main floor.

'What?' Brandon asks, moving over to the railing as well. He looks around, using his hands as fake binoculars, and gasps for air when he sees his brother and his boyfriend too.

'That's my man!' He shouts, making Celine head over to us as well.

'Wait, if they're here, that means that-' Everything dies down.

The people, the lights, the lyrics to the music.

It's just him and the beat of my heart.

I take a sip of my drink and tilt my head at him, feeling mesmerized by his eyes.

It feels like the first night all over again, only this time I'm the one standing on top and I know who this man is.

It's Rafael Adriano Curzio, the man I'm marrying tomorrow.

'I'm going to talk to them, you stay here and don't look!' Veah shouts as she runs down the stairs.

Celine and Brandon pull me away from the railing, forcing me to sit between them on the couch.

As if they're guarding me against something.

'But you're going to miss-' Neveah ignores Isabelle and runs down the stairs at the same time that a man walks up. 'Can we help you?'

'Who is Cataleya?' The guy asks, his voice is deep and distant.

I frown and slowly raise my hand, wondering what this dude wants from me.

Brandon and Celine shove the only empty chair to the middle of the room, before urging me to go and take a seat in it. 'What are you-'

The guy pulls off his shirt and is wearing nothing but his boxers in less than five seconds.

No. Fucking. Way.

I thought this shit only happened in movies or as pranks, but this is real.

They got me a fucking stripper.

'Shake that ass daddy!' Brandon shouts, probably enjoying this more than I do.

I can't stop laughing at the fact that there's a half-naked man grinding his ass on me.

'If Rio sees this, he's going to kill us all!' I pull on Celine's arm, pulling her onto my lap so that the guy is grinding on her instead of me, before getting out of that chair and heading back to the railing.

Rio...

He's still sitting in the same spot, staring straight at me.

I can't stop smiling as he keeps his eyes on me. He looks so good right now.

But that all changes when he starts frowning at me.

I look back, facing the striper's muscled chest right behind me.

Before I can look back at Rio, the striper pulls me towards the couch and starts dancing again.

Shit. Shit. Shit.

Rio is going to lose his shit.

He's going to come up here and kill him and- 'Look at you!' Veah shouts as she comes back up the stairs.

'Come here.' I pull her next to me, hoping that he will grind on her instead of me, but of course, he doesn't.

After getting danced on by a man that's at least twice my size and weight, I go to get a drink and bump into Vincent at the bar.

'You seem to enjoy yourself tonight.' He says, smiling brightly. I nod and take a sip from my water, before taking a look around.

This place is packed.

'I am, are you?' He nods and looks up at where the others are seated, probably looking for Celine.

'Have you seen Rio?' I ask curiously, wanting to talk to him about what just happened. Because he just disappeared.

'He went home, I think.' Fuck... I just hope he's not going to be mad. 'I'm down to call it a night as well, are you?'

He finishes his drink and nods, before jumping off his seat. 'Here you are!'

We both turn to the loud voice and face Celine, who jumps into Vincent's arms.

'Celine, what are you-' 'I love you, Vincent.' My eyes widen at her confession and even though she's drunk, I know she means every word coming out of her mouth.

I stay behind for a while, and watch as Vincent starts smiling at her. 'I love you too, but how much did you have to drink?'

All of this is making my heart burst.

I know she has a kid with Kai and all, but they're adorable together.

And to think she probably won't remember any of this tomorrow morning...

'A lot but I'm fine! I just miss you!' She hugs him tightly and he makes sure they won't fall by holding onto her as well.

I can tell that he wants to stick with her for a while and maybe he should, but he also knows that this won't change anything.

Because tomorrow Kai will be all over Celine, begging her for a second chance again. And she won't know what to do, because they have a kid together.

'Could you go tell the others that we're going home?' He asks, barely loud enough to get over the music.

I nod and head back upstairs, hearing Celine ask him a bunch of questions about why we're leaving already.

Veah is talking to Marco when I make my way up the stairs and they both smile at me. 'Everything okay?'

I nod and grab my stuff, before turning back to them. 'I'm heading home, kind of tired and-' 'Don't go home to see Rafael.' Marco chimes, clearly a little tipsy as well.

'I won't.' I say, fully knowing that I will.

But if I tell them that I'm going home for him, they'll keep me here.

And I'm not really going home because of him. I want to check up on my mom too.

'Thank you for today again, Veah! I had so much fun.' I say as I hug her once more. 'Text me when you're home, I'll see where the others are and head back as well.'

I nod and head out, finding Vincent, Celine, Brandon, and Killian outside.

'We're taking the van!' Brandon shouts as he throws his arm around my shoulder.

I carry him to the van and open the door, just in time for him to drop into the car.

We all get in and let Vincent drive since he didn't drink at all.

When we get to the houses, they all head to their own houses, while I head to my mom's.

I slowly open the front door and sneak inside, just in case anyone's sleeping already.

'Mom?' I whisper as I head up the stairs, straight to her bedroom.

I slightly open the door and peek inside, finding her sound asleep.

She looks so peaceful. So at ease and out of pain.

I walk over to her and kneel down next to her, giving her a kiss on her head, before heading back to the door.

I should let her rest for now, because tomorrow will be busy.

When I head back down the stairs, I notice someone walking into the kitchen.

It's Theo.

'How are you holding up?' I ask, making him flinch for a second.

He probably wasn't expecting me at this time of day. 'It's just me.'

'I feel like I should be asking you.' He chuckles, pouring me a glass of water.

I take it and thank him with a smile, before taking a sip. 'I asked first.'

He smiles and nods, leaning against the counter. 'I just want to stay by her side for every second she has left.' Oh... I know that feeling...

'I feel the same way.' I sigh and finish the water, before placing it in the dishwasher. 'How long has she been sleeping?'

'She fell asleep soon after you guys left.' He says as I enter the kitchen, 'She was really tired.'

I feel bad for not helping her more when she was cooking, but she wouldn't allow me near the kitchen.

'Theo, I wanted to apologize again for behaving the way I did the first time we met.' He snorts, almost spitting out his water, and shakes his head. 'It's fine, really.'

'I threatened you with a knife, it's not fine.' I chuckle when he does, remembering how stupid I was to do that.

'I'm happy that my mom has finally found someone who takes care of her the way she deserves.'

I don't like the think about my mom dating anyone, but I can manage Theo.

He truly cares about my mom and she deserves someone that won't leave her like Federico did.

'I would take her place if I could.' He says, suddenly having a hard time breathing.

'Me too.' I whisper as the tears form in my eyes.

I've cried enough today.

'Thank you for staying by her side.' I say as I head to the front door. He follows me and opens the door for me, before nodding at me with a smile on his lips. 'I can't leave her.'

As much as I hate the fact that it's never going to be just me, my mom, and Veah again, I'm glad that she found someone who genuinely loves her the way that we can't.

'Theo.' I turn back to the door and watch as he stops it from closing. 'Promise me you'll take care of her until I'm back from my honeymoon.'

He nods and smiles again, 'I'll take care of her as long as she needs.' Good...

I'd rather take care of her myself, but I can't do that if I'm off somewhere with Rio.

'Thank you.' I whisper barely loud enough for him to hear.

I head back to my house and get inside.

I kick off the stupid heels and run up the stairs, straight to my room.

As soon as I get in, I stop, I freeze when I see him.

Rio is sitting on the couch I'm always reading on and looks out the window, drinking something that looks like whiskey again.

'What are you doing here?' He doesn't turn to me as he finishes his drink and keeps his gaze on the horizon.

The moonlight glimmers against his face, making him look more godly than ever before.

'Rio, I asked you a question?'

'I felt like being here, away from everyone.' He mumbles, pouring himself another glass.

I didn't remember having whiskey in my room, so he must've brought it up here to drink.

'Didn't enjoy the party?' I ask as I take off the bracelet Celine bought me.

'Not as much as you did, apparently.' I stop taking off my necklace and look at him through the vanity mirror, 'Because you seemed to have lots of fun with that guy.'

I roll my eyes and turn around, watching him do the same. 'Are you jealous?'

He clenches his jaw before standing up, making me feel so small again as he takes a step forward. 'Why would I be jealous?'

'You are, aren't you?' I ask, placing my jewelry on my vanity before stepping closer as well, 'Admit it.'

'I'm not jealous.' I step closer and look up, smiling at him proudly.

'You are.' He rolls his eyes and takes the final step.

Now it's just a matter of time before he touches me.

'Tell me why I should be jealous of that guy.'

'Because he was all over me. And you don't like it when someone's all over me.'

I wait for him to respond, to tell me to shut up, to touch me, to pull me up and tell me to shut up.

But he simply looks at me and shakes his head, too stubborn to admit it. 'I don't care.'

'Really?' I step back and feel something powerful rush through me as I slowly head for the door, 'because I could go back and spend a night with him if that's what you want.'

Just as I reach the door, just as I'm about to leave, he pulls me back and wraps his fingers around my neck as he pulls me close, 'Oh shut up.'

And he kisses me.

It's a rough kiss.

Demanding every inch of my mouth, claiming it as his own as he lifts me up and carries me to the closet.

We both change into our pajamas, before laying down on the bed in each other's arms.

'Did you have fun today?' He asks while he drags his fingers up and down my arm. I nod and look up, trying to catch a glimpse of something in his eyes. 'Did you?'

'As much as I wanted to stay in with you, I kind of enjoyed it I guess.'

I kiss his jaw and wrap my legs around him, holding him close. 'What did you guys do?'

'We went to... An old house of ours.' He mumbles, looking at the ceiling now, 'I want to take you there once, maybe when we get back?'

'I would love to.' That house clearly means something to him, so I would love to go there with him.

'What about you?' He asks, lifting my face up to meet his gaze again. 'Veah did an amazing job, I did not get bored once.'

He listens to me ramble on about everything I did today, and won't stop smiling at me.

'So Isabelle was behind the whole stripper thing?' He asks curiously, a slight hint of annoyance in his tone.

I nod and climb on top of him, 'But don't go crazy on her, she just wanted us to have a fun night.'

He sighs deeply and swiftly flips us around, making sure that I'm underneath him as he leans down.

'You need a naked male to have a fun night?' He whispers, now clearly getting annoyed.

I tease him by smiling and letting my hand drag down his chest, 'Maybe?'

He grunts and drops down on me, his heavy body making me gasp for air for a few seconds. 'You are so annoying, Valentina.'

I push him down a bit, just to make sure I don't die due to a lack of oxygen going through my lungs.

'Can we go to the red room?' I ask as I look down on him.

I watch as he grins from ear to ear and wait for him to look up at me, our eyes locking as soon as he does.

'You want to go to the red room?'

I nod and notice a spark in his eyes before he slowly sits up and gets out of bed.

He pulls me with him, lifting me over his shoulder as he carries me down to the red room.

My stomach hurts because of his hard shoulder, and I yell at him to put me down. But Rio being Rio, he doesn't.

He only puts me down when we're in front of the door, allowing me to open the door.

We both enter the room he goes to one of the drawers. No.

I look around the room, searching for the chair I know is in here somewhere. When I finally find it, I rush over to it so that I can drag it to the middle of the room.

When I look back at Rio, he's frowning at me. 'What are you doing?'

I smile at him and adjust the chair a bit, so that he can sit comfortably, 'Please, sit down.'

He hesitantly walks over to the chair and takes a seat, placing his arms on the armrests, all while my heart's beating a million times a second.

'Close your eyes.' He tilts his head my way and frowns again.

As if it's the most difficult thing to do.

'Why would I-' 'Just close your eyes, please?' Unlike him, I'm asking nicely.

But I shouldn't.

If I want to make him feel the way he makes me feel when we're in here, I shouldn't ask.

I should demand.

He once told me to take the lead if I wanted it. I should never ask for it.

So I won't.

'Close your eyes, Rio.' He sighs deeply, curiosity sparking through his eyes before he finally closes them

I walk over to the drawers and search for some rope, before turning back to see that he's looking at me.

'What are you doing?' He asks as he watches me intently.

'Close your eyes.' I walk back over to him and get behind him, peeking over his shoulder to see if he closed his eyes again.

And he did.

'Arms behind the chair.' He shakes his head, a smile playing on his lips, and takes a deep breath before doing as he's told.

I hoop the rope through the back of the chair, before wrapping it around his arms, crossing it a few times before tying it back to the chair tightly.

He grabs onto the rope and wiggles in the chair a bit, trying to get comfortable.

I walk around the chair and look at his face.

Rafael Adriano Curzio.

The handsome man I'm going to marry in less than twenty-four hours.

The man I'll be sharing the rest of my life with.

He slowly opens his eyes, frowning again. 'What are you doing?'

'Just looking.' He keeps opening his eyes, so I head to the drawers to grab a blindfold.

When I return to the chair, he's still looking at me.

'Since you won't close your eyes.' I say as I wrap it around his head, making sure the fabric covers his eyes.

'It's because you took too long.' He says, making me smile.

I place my hands on his shoulders and feel his hard muscles on the palm of my hand.

Gliding my hands up and down his arms, I start placing kisses on his neck.

I feel his fingers move against my leg because he's probably holding onto the rope a bit harder.

'Why so silent?' I whisper against his skin, 'You're allowed to make noise, you know?'

I glance at his face, noticing his tight jaw.

He's clenching his jaw together because he doesn't want to make a sound.

I drag one of my hands into his hair, gently letting my fingers go through his thick brown hair.

'Rafael?' I ask when he doesn't reply to anything I just said.

His body tenses for a second before he clears his throat.

'I know.' He breathes, leaning further back into the chair. Into me.

'Just tell me what you're doing.' Please...

I want to hear that word coming out of his mouth. I want to see him desperate and begging, just for me.

'No.' I pull back entirely and can't stop the grin on my face as I walk around him again.

Just like the first time I tied this man up somewhere, I feel pride wash over me.

Rafael Adriano Curzio, the man that never bows, the man that is cruel and dangerous and heartless, is tied to a chair in front of me.

All for me.

'You never tell me what your next step is going to be.' I continue, making him breathe deeply.

I bet he's losing his shit right now, but I'm enjoying this.

'But you always enjoy the unexpected.' He states as I watch his arms move just a little.

Is he untying himself? 'Stop doing that,' His shoulders tense before slumping down again and he tilts his head a little, 'You're so impatient, Rafael.'

I bet he's rolling his eyes underneath that blindfold, but I smile when I see him grin. 'Untie me.'

'No.' I say as I take a step forward, placing my hand on his knee as I slightly spread his legs apart. 'I will certainly not untie you.'

His hard muscles feel warm underneath my hand and I can't help but get excited.

I drop onto my knees between his legs, looking up at the handsome man tied to the chair.

My heart is racing a million beats per minute as I try pulling his boxers down a bit.

'Up.' He looks down, even though he's unable to actually see me, and slightly lifts his hips.

'Good boy.' I tease, watching as he shoots forward in his chair.

Probably an attempt to break free, but it's impossible. He won't be able to break free unless he unties himself, which might take a while, or break the chair.

Which... I don't think he will... He might...

'You're going to pay for this.' He grunts, shivering as I slide down his boxers. 'We'll see about that.'

I hold back the gasp at the size of him and feel something warm rush between my legs.

Even though I have seen his dick before, it's still bigger than I expect. Just like every other time.

'Valentina, don't you think-' I wrap my hand around his dick and slowly pump it up and down, hearing him groan as his body tenses at my movements.

I lean over, placing kisses on his abs, slowly moving down and down, until he gasps for air when I suck right above his crotch. Fuck.

I lean back for a second, taking him all in. This man is muscled to perfection, an absolute beast in general, but he's on the edge just for me.

'Tell me what you want.' I whisper as I slowly lift my hand up and down his shaft. He groans out of annoyance and fights the rope holding him back.

If I didn't tie him up, he would have me on my back in less than two seconds, but that's not what I want right now.

'Tell me, Rafael.' I whisper against his warm skin.

He inhales sharply and rolls his head back. 'Is- that what this is?'

Even though I'm the one doing this to him, he's also doing things to me. Because even though I'm the one touching him, his voice is still thick and heavy, making my heart beat even faster.

'You want me to beg?' I nod and forget that he's blindfolded for a second, moving my hand up his shaft, all the way to his tip, and say, 'Tell me what you want, or I'll stop.'

He smiles and shivers when I teasingly glide my hand back down.

'Fucking hell-' He groans as he moves in the chair as if it's his only way out. 'Don't you dare-'

I slowly reduce my grip on him, letting my fingertips linger for a second before I pull back entirely.

'Valentina-' 'Yes, Rafael?' I ask amused at his desperation.

Because he's ready for me just as much as I am ready for him, I just want to tease him a bit more.

'Fuck you.' He sneers as he almost breaks his arm to get free and take me the way he likes.

The way we both like, but I won't let him.

'You won't get to if you don't tell me what you want,' I continue, slowly sitting up and touching his legs for support, 'So tell me.'

He shivers at my touch, probably waiting for me to touch him again, but that won't happen if he won't tell me.

'It's really not that hard.' I know Rio is hardheaded, but I always wondered if he would admit to this.

To me.

If he would let me make him beg the way he always makes me do.

I get back on my knees and kiss his legs, slowly moving up and up, until I'm near his crotch again.

'Okay-' He mumbles something under his breath as he huffs and puffs as if he ran a mile. 'Touch me, just touch me.'

'Am I not already touching you?' I ask while letting my lips brush against his skin.

He shivers and shakes his head, making me grin even wider. 'I asked you a question, it's only fair that you answer with words, Rafael.'

'Fucking hell-' I glide the tip of my tongue up his shaft, hearing a moan escape his perfect lips, 'Yes.'

'So how do you want me to touch you?' I pump my hand across his shaft once, noticing him moving to the edge of his seat just so that I'm holding onto him.

I push him back with all my might and shake my head, 'Don't move.'

'Keep your hands on me, Valentina.' I pull back entirely and listen to him groan again.

He does not get to tell me what to do. Not tonight.

'What do you want from me?' He asks out of breath, making me enjoy this even more. 'Beg for me, Rafael.'

'No.' I lick again, barely a second, but his body responds instantly. 'I won't- Fuck.'

'Tell me what you want.' I repeat as I glide my hand up and down again. 'Keep your hands on me.'

I almost pull back again but I know he won't cave in that fast.

'Just my hands?' I ask as I lick again, just a second longer this time. 'No.'

'So tell me what you want.' I suck on his skin while I wait for his answer, ready to leave my mark on this man forever.

'Everything.' He moans as he lets his head roll back. 'Everything?'

'Yes.' I sit up a little, readying myself to take him into my mouth for just a second, and hear him moan louder than before.

He doesn't care about the stuff he cared about before.

Whatever that might be.

He let go of it.

Just a little.

'Valentina.' He moans again.

It sounds like he's praying.

Praying for me, praying to get everything I have to offer in the best way possible.

And I'm willing to give everything to him.

Only if he'll let me.

'Tell me, Rafael.' He groans and tries to lift his hips so that he enters my mouth again, but I push him back. 'No.'

I roll my eyes and take him all in, trying to focus on my breathing so that I won't choke to death as I hear him groan and feel him go deep inside my throat.

He tries to stay in this position and won't stop moaning when I let my tongue go around his shaft.

But just when he's getting close, just when he explodes into my mouth, I pull back again.

And he hates it.

'You-' 'Tell me.' I say as my throat burns because of how big he is, 'Tell me or this is it.'

'God. Give me everything, Please.' My heart explodes and I almost fall back, but I latch onto his leg and process what he just said.

'Take me, Valentina.' He mumbles, probably feeling ashamed that he's begging me, 'Take everything you want and mark me as yours.'

God... This man has a way with words...

'See, it wasn't that hard.' I mumble as I stand up and take off his blindfold.

He instantly locks eyes with me, annoyance clear in his hazel eyes. 'I'm going to kill you.'

'We have to get married first.' I say as I slowly pull down my shorts and underwear.

The annoyance instantly disappears when he sees my naked body and even though I know I gained some weight over a couple of weeks, I have never felt prettier.

'Untie me.' He says as I climb onto his lap, wrapping my arms around his neck. 'No.'

I lower myself onto him, making sure he enters me in one go, and gasp for air as he reaches a deep spot inside of me.

'Valentina, I-' I push myself up and down on him, not keeping in anything as he reaches deep inside of me.

Time and time again.

He moans as well, latching his teeth into my shoulder to keep himself silent.

'Do- don't stop, please.' He begs, his breath brushing against my skin.

Even if I wanted to stop, which would be ridiculous, I don't think I would be able to.

He just feels too good.

He lifts his hips a little, adding to the collision with each thrust.

It's like our bodies fit perfectly.

We get to the edge and jump, straight into the wildfire, burning until everything turns black and my heart is beating out of my chest.

But I can still feel him. I can still feel his heartbeat and his skin. I can feel his chest heaving rapidly.

And when I look up at him, I notice him staring at me in awe.

He's impressed, but freaking out at the same time.

I lean over his shoulder and untie him, before almost falling off his lap.

He swiftly catches me and holds me in his arms, making me feel warm and sleepy at the same time.

'I hope you enjoyed that because it will be the last time you'll get to experience it.' He whispers, brushing my hair out of my face.

I smile and try to stay awake, placing kisses on his jaw, 'We'll see about that.'

----

A/N: LONG CHAPTER I KNOWWWWWW

I hope you enjoyed this, some of you guys wanted Leya to be dominant during a scene so here you gooooo!!!

What will happen at the wedding?!?!

Don't forget to comment and vote on what you liked the most! (It keeps me motivated!)

I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH AND I HOPE TO SEE YOU IN THE NEXT CHAPTER!

Have an amazing day/night babiessss <33333