Total pages in book: 35
Estimated words: 32627 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 163(@200wpm)___ 131(@250wpm)___ 109(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 32627 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 163(@200wpm)___ 131(@250wpm)___ 109(@300wpm)
But I force away my concerns. Brandon is the calmer and more patient man, while Ben is fiery and quick-witted. Both are generous lovers, and both are incredibly sexy. When I’m with them, I feel like my life has never been better or happier. No wonder I adore them, I muse to myself. I’ve never had one, much less two gorgeous partners, and here I am living the dream. I wish I could say I have regrets because life is never perfect, but right now, I have none and that suits me just fine.
Taking a deep breath, I finish up my pancake breakfast and clean up the kitchen. I’m giddy with the realization that I love the twins, but the world still has to go on, and I have a lot to accomplish today.
A half hour or so later, I’m showered, dressed, and walking the short distance to work. As I move along the already busy main drag, I wave good morning to a shopkeeper here, or a peddler there. Sheridan attracts a lot of tourists, and the townspeople do their part to keep our little home spruced up and welcoming.
Soon, I’m at The Lovely Café. My boss is already inside, although Renata’s on the phone. I smile and wave a greeting and then get busy setting out the day’s pastries and organizing various cups and lids. Within an hour, the little shop is bustling with regulars and even a few out of towners, all looking for that morning jolt of caffeine and sugar.
About two hours into my shift, I look up at the telltale ring of the café door opening and smile happily as two sharply dressed police officers walk in. Ben and Brandon’s impressive figures dominate the small space, but they greet everyone with warmth and friendly ease. They’re practically famous in the town, and seem to know everyone by name.
“Bess,” Ben says my name in a way that makes me tingle down to my toes as they the twins approach the counter.
“Officers Cartwright,” I joke in return and the three of us exchange wicked smiles.
Brandon keeps his tone low.
“Rumor has it you’ve been a naughty girl,” he growls beneath his breath. Next to him, Ben shakes his head but the twinkle in his stunning blue eyes tells me he’s enjoying himself.
“Only at home, officer, I swear,” I flutter my lashes innocently. “Maybe you can tie me up later to get me to confess.”
At this, Ben throws back his head and laughs heartily. A few customers look up, but most people are easygoing and don’t mind the joviality. Come to think of it, a few people probably realize I’m in a relationship with these men just from observing us, although they’re too polite to ask.
But then, my boss saunters over.
“All right fellows, leave my barista alone and give us your order.” Renata is a delightful elderly lady, and it’s clear that she has a soft spot for the mischievous Cartwright brothers too.
“I’ve got it memorized, don’t worry,” I assure her as I begin whipping up the lattes. Once the bill is settled and espressos are in hand, Brandon leans slightly over the counter and whispers in my ear.
“See you back home, baby girl. Look forward to getting that confession out of you. With handcuffs, if possible.”
I giggle as the two imposing men leave the shop, and then sigh with unexpected delight. How did my life become so wonderful?
Yep, I think with a rueful shake of the head, I’m in love.
8
Bess
As promised, I decide to make a lovely dinner that night for my two lovers. While I’m not a great chef, I do enjoy dabbling in a few dishes and Brandon and Ben are always appreciative of my efforts.
I smile with approval at the fluffy homemade mashed potatoes. The asparagus is crisp and green, and the intoxicating aroma of the rib eye steaks enough to make a grown man melt. I’m no genius in the kitchen, but I’ve done myself proud this evening. Plus, I’ve taken the time to set the dining room table with lovely dishware and elegant, long-stemmed wine glasses. There are even a few bottles of fancier red wine to accompany the meal, and the grocer gave me some advice about the best pairings.
Finally, the lock on the front door snicks and I hear heavy footsteps in the foyer.
“In here!” I call.
There are a few thumps and then my lovers materialize, their forms huge. “My god that smells good,” Ben sniffs the air dramatically as he walks into the kitchen, so handsome in his blue uniform.
“I’m glad you think so,” I say, smiling sweetly at the compliment. The men never fail to make me feel valued with their constant praise.
“Can I help with anything?” Brandon asks, eyeing the simmering pots and pans while giving my bottom a friendly squeeze. “Taste test or something?”