Vic’s show has been nominated for five Michelin awards, including Culinary Master of the Year and Best Restaurant. It’s a huge deal. He hasn’t been to an awards ceremony in five years, so me accompanying him isn’t just a casual trip—it’s meaningful.

And, if I’m being completely honest with myself…I think this may be the weekend. The weekend we finally go further than we’ve ever gone.

We’ve been toeing the line for weeks, teetering on the edge of something explosive. Every time we touch, every time we kiss, I’m left aching, wanting, needing more, and I love it.

I love the way his hands know exactly where to touch, how a single stroke makes my body shudder. I love the way his lips drag over my skin, teasing, torturing, pushing me closer and closer until my entire body hums with desperate anticipation.

I’ve never wanted anyone this badly before. With Cory, it was… empty. Routine. A one-sided performance where I was nothing more than a tool for his pleasure.

But with Vic? He worships me. He wants me in ways I’ve never been wanted, which scares me because what if reality doesn’t live up to my fantasies? What if I buckle under pressure? What if I spazz out? What if I… underperform?

Oh, God. Is that even a thing? Holy crap. I need to watch some porn.

I haven’t had sex in years, and when I did, it was just a chore. I have no idea what I’m doing when it comes to real intimacy. What if I mess it up? What if I don’t make him feel as good as he makes me feel?

I shake off my spiraling thoughts, jump into the shower, and let the hot water scald my skin, hoping it’ll wash away my overthinking.

Just as I’m running through my mental checklist, I hear Vic’s voice, accompanied by Syd and Ari’s excited squeals. I hear the chaotic shuffle of little feet, and then, BAM! I barely have a second to brace myself.

“Ms. Kerry! Ms. Kerry!”

Syd jumps up and down while Ari throws her arms around my waist, squeezing me tight. It’s been less than 24 hours since we last saw one another, but it feels like forever. I love these girls like they’re mine. And, if I let myself dream a little, maybe one day they could be.

“We’re gonna have the best weekend ever!” Syd announces, her face glowing with excitement.

“We packed our princess dresses for solar system night. Princesses in space!” Ari nods solemnly as if this is a mission of great importance.