Game of Love - 13. Chapter 13: Eric's life might be in danger

Hawaii, one of the best romantic hideaway for couples. Beautiful, quiet, and very romantic. The small, wet pebbles that lined the beach sparkled in the lingering light of the sunset. The water was almost still, small waves occasionally hitting the beach with little force.

Ko Olina beach is one of the most famous and romantic beaches in Hawaii and it has every reason to be. The sea, perfectly calm, was like a peaceful lake, and its soft murmurs were scarcely audible. The beauty of the sunset only made the beach look even more beautiful.

And here they were, our happy couple, a distance from the beach lying on a beautiful rock that was in the water. Eric was lying on his back, his legs spread a bit while Sergio was lying on top of him, between those hot legs.

Eric had his hands wrapped around his husband’s neck, bringing him even closer. Their bodies were in the water except for their heads. They were kissing, kissing like their lives depended on it. It was the most beautiful thing ever and Sergio wouldn’t have wished for anything better than that. The water was soothing and cool.

The kiss they both shared was slow and soft, comforting in ways that words would never be. Sergio’s hand rested below Eric’s ear, his thumb caressing his cheek as their breaths mingled. Eric ran his fingers down Sergio’s spine, pulling him even closer until there was no space left in between them and he could feel the beating of his husband’s heart against his chest.

“You know, I never imagined being so happy in my life,” Sergio said in between kisses. “You’re the reason why I am so happy today and I’ll forever cherish these moments as long as I live.”

“So will I!” Eric said with a smile of an angel. “You’ve given me a reason to be happy. A reason to wake up each morning, and a reason to thank God whenever I look at you.”

“No, I should be the one thanking you.” Sergio moaned, licking his already swollen lips. “This honeymoon has been beautiful because of you. The past one month with you alone has been magical and I wish I could relive it over and over again.”

Eric had no words. He pulled his husband in another fiery kiss and they simply lost their surroundings. That kiss was Sergio’s salvation and his torment as well. He felt like he was walking on air. It was magic, the way his lips connected with Sergio’s. His mouth was so warm, the caress of his lips softer than he could have imagined.

They were one and nothing was gonna separate them after that moment. With the golden sky above them, they looked like two Olympian gods making love. They didn’t wanna pull away from each other. They just wanted to kiss and kiss until it was the end of time.

***

“Of course, aunt, you have nothing to worry about,” Adrianna said happily as she rushed down the stairs. “I told you I was gonna handle it. Just make sure that you come here at the time I sent you.”

‘Of course, I wouldn’t miss it for the world.’ Laurel said happily on the other end. ‘I have missed my son so much and seeing his face will be the best thing ever.’

“Alright, aunt! I will call you later.”

She cut the call and rushed to the living room where the decorators were doing their best in trying to make the whole room beautiful. Adrenaline was coursing through her veins when she saw how wonderful the whole room was looking like. Everyone in the room seemed very busy but it was paying off. She was excited already and couldn’t wait to see the look on her brother’s face when he walked into the room.

“Wow! I think I did a great job.”

Adrianna quickly turned to find a surprise, her mother. She stood behind her, staring at her with nothing but anger on her face. Her arms were crossed and her face showed disapproval. She was dressed in a sexy black designer’s pantsuit with a white shirt inside. Her hair was tied in a ponytail and her makeup was on point, making her look younger than she was.

“What’s going on here?” She asked harshly.

“Errr…. Mom, have you forgotten already?” She chuckled nervously. “Sergio and Eric are coming back home today. I thought I should give them a surprise party.”

“What?” She gasped, feeling like anger had just taken her off her feet. “Without informing me? And why are you even throwing a surprise party for that boy? As far as I am concerned, my son is single. That boy is nothing but…”

“And when will you wake up, mom!” Adrianna asked, shaking her head. “You’re the only one that seems to be living in the past. It’s been a month since your son left for his honeymoon and he’s coming back after so long. Shouldn’t you be happy?”

“For what?” She chuckled bitterly. “To welcome a son that doesn’t consider me his mother anymore? Or to welcome the boy that schemed his way into my house? It’s been a month and he’s not even bothered to call me or check on how I am doing.”

“Have you tried to call him?” Adrianna chuckled, shaking her head. “Why don’t you put down your ego and be happy for your son? Mothers are like our second gods. They are known to build and not to destroy. They are known to fix all the problems and not worsen them. Your son chose a path of happiness but you’re intent on destroying his life.”

“How dare you?” Kim snapped, clenching her fists. “Who do you think you are to talk to me like that? How dare you accuse me of trying to destroy my son’s life? That boy doesn’t even love him.”

“And how would you know that when you’ve been busy doing everything to destroy his relationship with Sergio?” Adrianna snapped, surprising her. “As far as I know, Eric makes Sergio happy. Nothing matters to me more than my brother’s happiness. And maybe if you cannot see, you don’t deserve to be called his mother.”

She shook her head and angrily left, leaving Kim standing there like a statue. What Adrianna had said to her was very painful and it was so hard to process it. She just stood there, feeling all the anger in this world take the best of her.

***

The car parked in front of the entrance and Sergio slowly got out, fixing his blazer. He was looking very handsome in a blue sparkly shirt that was tucked in a black designer’s trouser with black designer’s shoes on his feet. He had an animal printed blazer on that just made him like the most handsome guy in the world.

He slowly walked to the other side and found Eric opening the door. He chuckled happily, rushing to him. He opened the door widely, took Eric’s hand, and kissed it before he helped him out of the car. Eric was smiling, almost blushing by Sergio’s romantic gestures.

“Okay!” He sounded like he was not sure. “Mr. Alvarado, I believe I can get out of the car on my own. We are not on our honeymoon anymore.”

“So what?” Sergio wrapped his arm around Eric’s waist, pulling him closer to himself so that their faces were only an inch away. “It doesn’t make any difference as long as I am here with you. What I know is that our honeymoon didn’t end. We just decided to bring it home.”

“You’re insane!” Eric laughed, locking his arms tightly around his husband’s neck. “But you’re my insane husband and I love you.”

Sergio’s heart pounded in his ribcage and he gave a sharp breath.

“Oh, that’s so sweet! Does this mean that our honeymoon continues?”

“Hmmm….” Eric shook his head playfully like he was thinking while Sergio closed the remaining space in between them. “….no!”

He freed himself from his husband and started rushing towards the entrance. Sergio chuckled and began running after him. In no time at all, he caught up with him and gripped his arm quickly, pulling him closer to himself. He had his arms locked around his waist tightly, bringing him even closer.

“Not today, my darling husband.” Sergio moaned as he placed a kiss on Eric’s tender lips. “You won’t get away from me. Not ever again.”

“Can we do this when we reach our room, Sergio?” Eric moaned as Sergio attacked his neck and started placing kisses all over it. “Adrianna called me a few minutes back and I am sure she’s waiting for the both of us.”

“Hmmm…. Are you by any chance avoiding your husband?” Sergio asked with a raised eyebrow. “Last I remembered, you were married to me and not my sister.”

Eric chuckled happily. “Of course, but I also remember in my vows that your family will be mine too. Don’t be selfish, Mr. Alvarado.”

He placed a kiss on his sweet lips and freed himself again, heading to the door. He opened the door wide but was welcomed by darkness that he hadn’t expected. It was so dark that he couldn’t see anything at all. Strange!

But before he could even reach the light switch, he was grabbed from the back and pinned to the wall with his hands above his head. From those harsh breaths, the masculine cologne, and the heat he felt, he didn’t need to be a genius to know that it was his husband.

“Sergio!” He laughed. “What are you doing? It’s dark and…”

“Even better!” Sergio licked his lips as he got near the boy’s face. “Even the universe and the house wants us to be together. Besides, I don’t need any light to see you. You’re all the light that I need. Even better,” He paused and breathed on Eric’s face, making his body vibrate. “I don’t need light to find your lips. I know exactly where they are.”

He grabbed Eric by the waist, pulling him up-close against his chest. His hand gently glided through Eric’s hair, as he looked at him in a way so sexy that he didn’t even realize it was dark. Eric’s eyes were candles in the night, their light a spark of passion…. desire. Sergio was closing the space in between them, dying to taste those lips that rocked his world. But suddenly… the lights went on!

“Surprise!”

Sergio and Eric almost jumped when they heard the loud voices. They quickly glanced in the direction of the sound and got the surprise of their lives when they saw the large living room filled with people that were clapping as they approached them. They were all dressed beautifully in the best attires Eric had ever seen.

The whole room was sparkling with the most beautiful decors and flowers. Balloons were everywhere even falling on the two of them. Everyone was clapping and they had beautiful smiles on their faces.

Eric was surprised it was the same living room he had seen about a month ago. It looked different, like a party hall. It was decorated beautifully and there was a beautiful but small stage in front that was decorated beautifully. There was a stage lighting equipment that was clamped on a truss and it looked very classy.

There was food on one side, a whole lot of it. Eric and Sergio remained in the position that they were in, holding each other and looking shocked. They were staring at Adrianna who was coming closer to them. She was looking beautiful in a black long slit dress that sparkled on her with white heels on her feet. Her makeup was on point and her hair was curled, making her look like a party queen.

“Surprise, you two!” She quickly rushed to the both of them, kissing both their cheeks before she hugged them. “And you’re welcome!”

“What’s going on?” Sergio asked, chuckling nervously.

“What do you mean, silly?” Adrianna pinched his cheek playfully. “It is your reception party. You didn’t expect to go for a whole month and then I’d welcome you with empty arms, did you?”

“Wow! This is… I don’t know what to say, Adrianna.” Eric was excited and he couldn’t mask it. “This is so beautiful. Thank you so much.”

“You don’t have to thank me. Just enjoy the party. And welcome back.” She hugged him tightly, patting his back. “And you look amazing. It’s like you knew you were coming to a party. But I am not surprised since a fashion god is always prepared.”

“You don’t have to flatter me, Adrianna.” He chuckled nervously, almost blushing. “You don’t look bad yourself.”

Eric was truly looking amazing. He was wearing a long, yellow shiny shirt that reached his thighs and a black skinny jean that showed off his gorgeous curves and yellow snickers on his feet. He had a blue fishnet scarf around his neck and his hair was made in a ponytail with a braid, making it both professional and sexy. Everyone at the party couldn’t deny that he stole the spotlight.

“Why don’t you enjoy your party?”

Eric chuckled and then went to his mother who was standing at a distance staring at him with a smile on her face. She was looking beautiful in a beautiful blue dress with blue heels on her feet. She was with Douglas who was wearing a black designer’s suit with a white shirt inside and black shoes.

“Mi amor!” Laurel moaned as she hugged her son. “You’ve got no idea how much I missed you. I am so glad you’re back. And I hope you love the surprise.”

“What?” Eric gasped, shaking his head. “You did this and you didn’t even give me a hint?”

“And ruin the surprise for you? Not a chance.” She laughed as she pulled away from the hug. She looked at Sergio who standing behind Eric with his hands held together, smiling at his mother-in-law. “And what are you standing there for, MR. Alvarado? Come and hug your mother.”

That word got Sergio’s heart to begin racing. He got so emotional and he rushed to Laurel and gave her a tight hug. Then the four of them started talking like a big happy family, laughing and smiling as no problem could ever ruin that moment. But suddenly…

“Hmmm, you guys seemed to have forgotten about me.” A voice spoke from behind Eric. “What about my hug? Am I not part of this family?”

Eric quickly turned to find another shock, a handsome man who was standing there with his arms crossed and the most beautiful smile ever. He was dressed in a pure white shirt that was tucked in a sexy blue skinny pair of jean with blue snickers on his feet. His hair was shaven into a quiff and God, Eric’s heart raced with joy.

“Derrick?” He gasped, covering his mouth in excitement. “OMG, you’re here too.”

He rushed to him and pulled him into a tight hug. Eric couldn’t believe he was living that moment. It felt like a dream. His family was now complete and he couldn’t dream of anything else. His life had just gone from good to best.

“When did you arrive? And why didn’t you tell me?”

“And ruin the surprise? Not a chance.” Derrick chuckled in his sweet voice. “I arrived about two weeks ago. But wait, did you think you were gonna live without your badass lawyer? And don’t think I have forgotten that you got married without inviting me. You and I still have a score to settle on that.”

Eric laughed. “I missed you too, my lovely brother.”

“Oh!” Derrick moaned, taking in a deep breath.

“Come on, let me introduce you to my husband. This is…”

“Sergio!” Derrick chimed in, extending his hand at the hot hunk. He had his eyes all over his cute face.

Sergio chuckled nervously, powerfully shaking the man’s hand. He didn’t know if Derrick was just wild or he was flirting with him. But he seemed like a nice guy.

“Err… baby, this is my crazy brother, Derrick,” Erick said, slightly resting his head on his arm. “Derrick is not only my brother but he’s also my lawyer. We work together.”

“Oh! It is nice to meet you, Derrick.”

“The pleasure is mine.” The two of them didn’t even let go of each other. “No wonder my beautiful brother got married to you so abruptly. You’re just too handsome. Too bad you’re taken. But when you decide to be single again, I am available.”

“Derrick!” Laurel gasped in shock, followed by a chuckle.

“Oh come on, mom…” He laughed, letting go of Sergio’s hand. “I was only joking and you know that. But he truly is handsome. Do you have a brother that I don’t know of?”

“No, well, actually, I don’t!” Sergio smiled, coiling his arm with his beautiful baby. “But I have a sister.”

“Adrianna?” Derrick smiled. “Well, she’s beautiful but just not my preference. But anyway, it was nice to meet you. Treat my brother nice and we’ll get along. But hurt him and I will be your worst nightmare.”

Sergio looked into Eric’s eyes and just smiled. “I would never hurt him. He’s my life.”

Eric felt like he’d just been taken to cloud 9 with the ecstasy he felt when Sergio said that to him. He felt like crying but he rather just clang to his husband’s shoulder, staring back into his eyes. It was such a wonderful moment for the two of them.

“Hola, ladies and gentlemen!” A happy voice hollered through the microphone, getting the attention of everyone. It was Andrea and she seemed extremely happy. “Thank you so much for honoring our invitation to surprise the newest couple in town.”

Everyone began cheering, clapping excitedly.

“And now that they’re here. There’s no need to delay anymore. Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts because today’s party is going to take off with a blast.”

As soon as she said that, the lights in the room became dim and the stage lights went on, lighting the stage gorgeously. Then all of a sudden, Akon’s ‘I wanna love you’ started playing and celebrity dancers hit the stage, making a formation that looked so professional.

‘I see you windin and grindin up on the floor

I know you see me lookin at you and you already know.

I wanna love you, you already know

I wanna love you, you already know.’

When snoop Dogg started rapping, the dancers started dancing and the whole just went quiet, staring at them as they did their thing. It was so good to see and they seemed to know what they were doing. The way they were moving their bodies, moving to the sync of the music. It was so beautiful and the audience couldn’t help but clap. Eric was just so excited and he smiled at his husband who was happily clapping while winking at him.

But just like that, the song ended and the dancers ended it with a bang. The whole room just lit up with claps, cheers, and whistles from all around. Eric couldn’t help but appreciate that the dancers had done a great job.

Eric was still clapping when one moment, with a smile on his face, he took a glance behind him and froze with what he saw. A man was standing behind a curtain just near the entrance and he was putting on a pitch-black hoodie that completely covered his face and Eric could have sworn he saw him holding a combat knife, a sharp one.

But the moment he had looked in that direction, the man got lost in the crowd. But Eric could have sworn that he had seen something. He felt his heart instantly begin to race and he felt the fear in his chest, waiting to take over. Perhaps it only wanted to protect him. But from what?

“Hey, aren’t they good?” Sergio asked, shaking Eric’s arm. “What do you think?”

But Eric just looked at his husband, giving him a fake smile. But he was again looking all around, trying to confirm that what he had seen wasn’t a figment of his imagination. But then again, he felt a hand on his shoulder and he almost jumped. He tried to stay calm as his eyes met Sergio’s handsome face.

“Baby, are you okay?” Sergio sounded worried. “Is anything bothering you?”

“No!” HE chuckled nervously. “I… I am just so happy. The dancers… they… were simply beautiful. Can you believe them dancing like that?”

Sergio knew that something was up. Eric didn’t sound like himself but maybe he was just tired from the journey. Sergio sighed, bringing him closer. He placed a kiss on his forehead, giving him a quick hug.

“I know you’re tired from this long journey, baby.” He said as he kissed his hands. “But we’ll rest. For now, let’s just enjoy our reception party. Everyone that we love is in here with us.”

“Everyone?” Eric gave a gloomy sigh, rubbing his face. “It’s not everyone, Sergio. Mother is not here. My happiness won’t be complete until I see her here. This might escalate the problem I am already having with her. Please, can you go and get her.”

Sergio smiled, slightly pinching his husband’s cheek. “Sure! I will go and check on her, my love.”

“Thank you!” Eric smiled, feeling a little better.

Sergio kissed his lips softly and left. Eric remained there, smiling brightly like a virgin bride. But when he raised his head, it was to look at the same hooded guy that he had seen earlier. This time he was leaning towards a wall, staring right at him although Eric couldn’t see his face. All he saw was his big pink lips and his dark beards. Nothing else.

Eric felt his heart pounding so hard against his ribcage as his pulse pressed outward, jerking the veins within. He suddenly got scared and glanced towards the direction his husband had gone earlier but he couldn’t see him. And when he looked in the direction he had seen the hooded guy, he couldn’t see him either.

Eric took a deep breath and started walking towards the entrance door, looking all around and trying his best to smile at the people that greeted him. He was alert, worried, and scared at the same time. Who was the man that he saw, he thought as he scanned the entire room? And what did he want there? He had a feeling that something bad was gonna happen but what? He couldn’t shake off that feeling and it was starting to turn him into a crazy person.

‘Who was the man I saw? And what does he want here?’

Eric was still in thought, going towards the entrance door while trying his best to look everywhere, glancing around the room. But nothing was working.

However, Eric got the greatest shock of his life when he looked straight ahead and just met with the person that he hadn’t expected to see on his return, Giada Sandoval. She was standing at the entrance, staring at him with a sinister look on her face, a mocking smile and her body language was just off.

However, she looked completely different, nothing like he had ever seen her look like before. She was dressed in a long, sexy, sparkly red dress that stuck on her curvaceous body like a second skin with a long slit that reached her thigh. She was wearing white high heels with diamond sparkles on them. She was rocking a blonde super bang that made her look sexy, young, and attractive. Her makeup was on point and she had gold jewelry that Eric could tell were pretty expensive.

She was with her son by her side who was rocking a sexy blue see-through shirt with a white vest inside that was tucked in a black skinny jeans with brown snickers on his feet. His hair was ash blue mixed color that was tied in a ponytail. Both of them looked different and Eric couldn’t shake off the feeling that their presence meant danger.

“What the hell are the two of you doing here?” Eric snarled, crossing his arms on his chest. “Aren’t you two tired of causing trouble? Get out of here before I call security to throw you out. I am tired of exchanging words with you.”

“Well, you don’t have any right to chase us here,” Giada said in a mocking voice. “You see, gone are the days when we used to be scared of you and your empty threats.”

“This is my reception party.” Eric’s voice rose. “I have every right to choose who should attend it and who shouldn’t. Now are you gonna leave or should I have you thrown out?”

“That’s not gonna happen!”

Eric heard a familiar voice speak right before he saw his mother in law emerge from behind him. Seeing her, Eric felt his heart give a sharp pound in his chest. She was looking at him like she wanted to murder him right there with a frown on her face.

But when she went to kiss both Giada and Trevor, a smile popped up on her face, almost like she hadn’t been mad a few seconds. She hugged them tightly, embracing the both of them right in front of Eric.

“Oh, I am so glad you could make it,” Kim said with a smile. “I was starting to thinking my future son-in-law had bailed on me.”

“No, mother!” Trevor said with a mocking laugh, glancing at Eric. “Why would I miss a chance to be with my husband, mother? You know the both of us are like magnets of opposite poles. We simply attract no matter who tries to separate us.”

Eric felt anger boiling deep in his system, as hot as lava. He knew that Kim had done that on purpose, to hurt him and he didn’t appreciate it at all.

“Well, come on in!” Kim smiled. “Your husband awaits.”

“Mother, why would you invite them here knowing that your son is a married man now?” Eric asked, shaking his head. “Do you think this is gonna solve anything? And honestly, I thought…”

“I don’t need any permission from you to bring anyone I want to my house,” Kim said harshly, raising her finger at him. “This is my house and the man in question is my son. Don’t think that just because you’ve managed to sneak your way into this house, you’ll have it easy. As far as I am concerned, my son is only married to Trevor. Do you understand? And I have already warned you to stop calling me that. I am not your mother.”

“Well, I am so sorry, mother. But I have tried everything to make you understand and maybe even like me a bit.” He said hoarsely, trying his best to control himself. “But if you think I am going to let you succeed in bringing another man in between my husband and me, then you don’t know me that well. In case you haven’t noticed, I am not your typical son in law. Whoever or whatever tries to get in between my husband and I shall feel my wrath. And I don’t care if it’s his mother or just some regular whore.”

Kim laughed, clapping. “Wow! Finally, you’ve managed to show your true colors. And I was wondering where this evil boy was.”

“I don’t care what you think about me. I am married to your son and I will prove to you that our love is stronger than anything else.” He said with a half-smile. “You may try to separate us but even you will understand soon enough.”

“We’ll see whose love is stronger. A mother’s or a whore’s.” Kim laughed and then started heading inside.

Eric was hurt by Kim’s words and he honestly felt like telling her something but. He contained himself, took a deep breath, and went to find his husband inside. He didn’t know what the idiots wanted but he wasn’t gonna allow them to get it.

But as soon as Eric went back inside, the hooded man came out of his hiding place and took off his hoodie, throwing it to the floor. He was now just a handsome young black man, dressed in waiters’ attire to blend it. He had a sinister look in his eyes and an evil grin on his face. He was holding a combat knife, gripping it tightly.

Then he took out his phone and dialed a number.

‘Tell me!’ A deep voice asked on the other end.

“They’ve arrived.” The man said in a deep manly voice. “But the boy is suspecting something. I have blended in so that they can’t suspect anything. No one is gonna save them from me here. And they’ll never know what hit them.”

The man laughed on the other end. ‘Do not underestimate Eric. He is very smart, fast, and quite dangerous. He runs his empire with an iron fist and we shouldn’t underestimate such a boy. He might be young but he is the most dangerous person in that house.’

“Don’t worry, boss! I know exactly what I will do. I’ll not fail you. Today, I am gonna eliminate the obstacle we have in our way.”

He cut the call and slipped the phone into his pocket. Then he took a deep breath and went in to join the party. It was gonna be fun.

***

Sergio zipped himself up and then flushed the toilet, taking a deep breath. He slowly walked to the sink and washed his hands slowly. He glanced at his reflection in the mirror and realized that he was a little bit sweaty so he decided to wash his face and make himself look fresh.

As he was doing so, he heard the door to the bathroom open and he didn’t need to be a genius to know that it was his husband that had come there. He chuckled softly, raising his head.

“Baby, I swear I was about to head to mom’s room.” He said before Eric even said any word to him. “It’s just that I wanted to take a leak and I was a little sweaty.”

He turned to look at his beautiful husband but before he could see anything. A towel was put over his head and he couldn’t see a thing. Then he felt Eric’s hands on the towel and started wiping his face without saying anything.

“You know, I could get used to this.” He brushed his palms together, feeling like a bird in flight. “You wiping my face and probably bathing me in the morning. Then I would make love to you the entire morning. Wouldn’t that be the best idea, ever?”

“I think it would be a great idea.”

Right after that, he felt arms lock around his waist. But something was wrong. First, that voice didn’t sound like Eric at all. And when those arms locked around him, he felt a surge of irritation and his body jerked a bit.

Sergio quickly threw the towel away and got shocked when he found himself staring into Trevor’s face. The man was smiling at him and their faces were close. Suddenly, rage flowed through him like lava, and fury vibrated through his being. His fists clenched and he angrily pushed the guy, making him hit the wall. But to his surprise, he just kept on smiling.

“Trevor! What the fuck are you doing here? And how the hell did you get into my room?”

Trevor’s eyes landed on the guy in front of him, his heart-stopping in his chest. Shit, that voice, he had missed it so much and it made him so damn horny. He didn’t mind being taken inside that bathroom as long as he was fucked by Sergio.

“I missed you, Sergio.” He moaned, biting his lip like a pornstar on set. “I couldn’t help but come here. You know how much I love you, boo-boo!”

“Don’t call me that!” Sergio warned, waving his finger in Trevor’s face. “I am not single anymore. I am a married man and I love my husband so much.”

Trevor burst into laughter, holding out his chest. “Both of us know that I am the one that loves you more and I also know that you love me so much. So…”

“Stop it!” Sergio warned. He was breathing so harshly that it sounded like a sleeping monster in a cave. “And get out of this room right now. How dare you follow me in the bathroom, Trevor? Don’t you have respect for other’s people’s privacy? I am a married man.”

“Oh come on!” Trevor winked, moaning in a low tone. “It’s not like I haven’t seen you naked before. We used to make love all over this room and in here too. I know exactly how that sexy body of yours is made. I know how you moan when you’re in pleasure and the position you love to fuck in. Do you want me to remind you?”

Sergio groaned in frustration, feeling like something had possessed him. His fists were shaking uncontrollably.

“Get the fuck out! Stop your nonsense, otherwise, I will lose it.”

“Really?” Bruce moaned, getting closer but Sergio took a step back. “Lose it so that we can fuck like animals in here. I miss moaning your name out. I miss riding that cock and sucking on it senselessly. I miss you pounding me from behind and…”

Before Trevor could finish his sentence, Sergio gave an angry groan and before he knew it, he was directing his fist at Trevor’s face. But suddenly, he froze mid-way and just stared at the shocked looking man, fighting with all his principles to just kick the guy’s teeth in. But he quickly withdrew, dropping his hand.

“You know, you’re not worth it. If you want to die then I suggest you find death elsewhere.”

“Why didn’t you do it?” Trevor asked, getting even closer. “You could have punched me but you chose not to do it. Do you know the reason why? It’s because no matter what you say or what you choose to tell your heart, I know for a fact that you still love me and you still want me as much as I do you. You will soon realize that the two of us are meant to be together and you’ll come back to me.”

Sergio laughed in mock. “That’s a nice dream you’ve got right there. But only one thing is missing, my dear Trevor. I will never be yours. Eric will be my only love. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a husband to kiss and dance with.”

With an angry look at the annoying man, Sergio walked past him, leaving him all alone. But instead of being mad, he just sniffed the air, smelling that wonderful cologne from Sergio. It filled his lungs and he felt his cock jerk.

“You’ll soon be mine, Sergio. I will eliminate any obstacle preventing me access from you. I promise.”

***

Sergio felt his blood wake up his brain when he saw Eric standing a distance from him, talking to some people. God, he was so sexy and different. Just like that, he forgot he had ever encountered someone as annoying as Trevor back there.

A smile grew of its own accord and when Eric looked in his direction and smiled, Sergio’s heart missed a beat and he just waved his hand softly. Eric didn’t need to be a genius to know that his husband wanted him. He excused himself and rushed to him, holding his hands with him.

“Hmmm… you took long, my love. I was just about to come to look for you to tell you that I have already found mom.”

“She’s here?” Sergio gasped.

“Wait, you didn’t go to get her? I thought I told you that you should…”

“But she’s here already, baby.” He chuckled, holding Eric tightly. “Are you happy now?”

“Well, yeah!” He took a deep sigh. “I am but… she invited Giada and Trevor here. I feel like the two of them are up to something again, Sergio. You should have seen the two of them. They look different and…”

“Look at me!” Sergio cupped Eric’s cheeks, staring deep into those beautiful blue eyes. “Those people don’t matter to me and I don’t think they should matter to you. Mommy only invited them to ruin our moods but we’re not gonna give them the pleasure of seeing us sad. We’re gonna enjoy this party because it’s ours.”

He leaned in so that his forehead rested against Eric’s. Both their breaths started shaking and God knows Sergio couldn’t fight the thoughts that were going through him. Eric’s very smell was flooding his senses that he even forgot that everyone was seeing the two of them. He leaned in and his lips brushed Eric’s. Not innocently, like a tease but hot, fiery, passionate demanding. Their eyes were closing and their lips were slowly patting but….

“So now ladies and gentlemen, let’s have a very special dance performance from our lovely couple, the two grooms and my brothers, Sergio and Eric!”

Everyone started cheering, getting Sergio and Eric back to reality. The both of them chuckled softly but never let go of each other. All eyes were on them and honestly, they felt a little nervous and shy, especially Eric. He hadn’t expected Adrianna to announce that.

“May we have the grooms to the stage please?” She hollered, making the cheers get even louder. “We’re all dying to see you two dance. Come on!”

Eric shook his head. “No, I can’t dance.”

“What?” Sergio laughed. “That’s not how I remember it, my dear husband.”

“That was in the university, five years ago.”

Sergio did something even crazier. He knelt on one knee, took Eric’s hand and kissed it, making people go insane with cheers. It was like they had all been waiting for a moment like that. Eric couldn’t deny his husband even if he wanted to. The guy was already on his knees.

He nodded and Sergio rose, taking Eric’s hand. When they started heading to the stage, everyone clapped and whistled. The lights went dim except for the stage lights and when the couple went there, staring at the audience, they smiled. All eyes were on them and they were kinda nervous.

Then Ellie Goulding’s ‘Love me as you do’ started playing.

‘You’re the light, you’re the night

You’re the color of my blood

You’re the cure, you’re the pain

You’re the only thing I wanna touch

Never knew that it could mean so much, so much’

And when Ellie started the main verse, the couple took each other’s hands and started dancing, bringing light to the whole room. People watched with their eyes wide open, admiring how sexy the couple looked as they danced in sync to the music like they had rehearsed while in reality, they hadn’t. They danced in harmony, bringing cheers from the guests that watched them.

The music spun around them lifting away gravity. Sergio watched with a smile on his face as Eric’s hair spun and bounced with each move and beat. All he could say to himself was that this was perfect. It was dance and art coming to life. Strong pointed moves didn’t matter. All that mattered was Eric and the way they moved.

He had one arm around Eric’s waist while the other held his hand up, spinning him from time to time as they danced wonderfully on the stage. The slow music twirled like thread around them. Eric smiled and rested his head on his husband’s chest, and let him sway his body round and round again.

Everyone started clapping and Adrianna just went insane with excitement. But some people were not happy with what they were seeing. Kim was irritated with seeing Eric dance with her sweet boy. Giada still had an evil grin on her face and Trevor’s fists were clenched. He was breathing like a mythical warrior who had just seen his mortal enemy. He tears of anger in his eyes.

Meanwhile, the couple continued giving the audience what they wanted, beautiful love. Their eyes were locked on each other as they gave a heartwarming performance and when they started reaching the climax, they started dancing like never before. They could hear Adrianna’s voice and they smiled. But they never moved their eyes away from each other.

And just like that, they finished their performance with a bang with Sergio balancing Eric’s body on his arm while leaning down as if to kiss him. Everyone was busy clapping. The music had ended and everyone was clapping but the two didn’t seem to be aware. All they just stared at was each other, space in between them closing.

Eric’s smile was priceless and looking at his husband, he could have sworn he was in heaven with the angels surrounding them and cheering for the two of them. Nothing could ruin that moment.

Sergio was about to kiss him. His heart was already racing and his eyes were almost shutting. But then suddenly, Eric’s eyes went past Sergio and he saw something that scared him so much. He could have sworn the lighting equipment, the huge truss on top was shaking uncontrollably.

Eric’s eyes widened as his heart gave a sharp pound in his chest. His heart nearly stopped beating and he continued staring at the huge truss. Suddenly, Eric didn’t know what was happening but he saw the truss moving down towards them and he felt like death came calling.

Sergio who was unaware was caught off guard. He didn’t know what happened but the next thing, Eric quickly rose and pushed him off the stage and he went flying to the floor below with a thud. Before he even reached the floor, Sergio heard a loud crashing sound like an explosion and his heart stopped. Everything went dark in the room as everyone gave loud gasps.

Sergio hit the floor with a thud and felt a sharp pain slip through his entire system. He didn’t care about the pain but the fear that he felt made him feel like death itself. He quickly raised his head to look at the stage and he saw the truss on the stage with electricity buzzing uncontrollably. Then suddenly, thoughts began accelerating inside his head. He wanted them to slow so that he could think properly but they wouldn’t.

Sergio could hear screams from the people in the room and he felt someone holding his arms, he didn’t care who but he retaliated and quickly rose, staring at the stage in horror. The lights were switched on and when everyone saw the state the stage was in, they just covered their mouths in horror.

The truss had collapsed on the stage horribly and they knew that something tragic had happened.

“Eric!” Sergio yelled as a tear rolled down his face. His breaths came in gasps and he felt like he was gonna blackout.

He started rushing to the stage with Adrianna and Steve right behind him. His heart was hammering inside his chest as it belonged to a rabbit running for its skin. Reaching the stage, his heart almost gave out when he looked for any sign of his husband. But he wasn’t there. There was no sign of him.

“Eric!” He cried, screaming like he was going insane. “Eric!”

Sergio felt the panic begin like a cluster of a spark plug in his abdomen. Tension grew in his face and limbs, his mind replaying the last attack. He gripped his hair, pulling on it like it wasn’t his. He needed to wake up from that nightmare. His eyes were moving like that of a chameleon, glancing throughout the room to see where his husband was.

“Eri…”

But Sergio froze when he looked towards the entrance and saw Eric rushing inside, looking like he had seen a ghost. Tears flooded his face and he started running like he was mad. Reaching Eric, he wrapped his arms tightly around him, hugging him like he wanted to squeeze the air out of him. He was sobbing softly, thanking God for the safety of the love of his life.

Eric on the other hand just hugged his husband tightly, trying to come to terms with what had happened. His breaths were rapid, shallower and he had tears in his eyes. He couldn’t believe he’d almost lost his husband.

“What happened, baby?” Sergio asked, kissing Eric’s all over his face. “Why did you scare me like that? You shouldn’t have done what you did?”

Everyone just watched, yet to recover from what they had observed. Giada was mad that Eric had escaped death and Trevor was scared. He had almost lost his darling husband to be and he didn’t appreciate it.

“Are you two alright?” Laurel asked, her voice shaky. “What… what had happened?”

She rushed to the both of them and hugged them. She was just too emotional. “Do you know how scary that was? I thought I had lost the two of you.”

“Mommy, I am okay.”

“You know, this is the events company’s fault.” Adrianna was mad and she couldn’t hide it. “I am gonna talk with the events manager right now? He assured me everything was okay. How could he be so careless? I don’t want anything to happen to you. I am so sorry. It’s my fault.”

“No, Adrianna!” Eric gasped, shaking his head. “I don’t think what happened here was the event management’s fault or as a result of faulty equipment. Something fishy is going on here. When that lighting equipment collapsed and the lights went out, I saw a guy coming from behind the stage. He had a knife with him. He was the one I followed but I lost him.”

“What?” Steve gasped, a frown appearing on his face. “Are you trying to say that what happened was planned?”

“Yes!” He nodded. “I think someone was trying to hurt me. A criminal could have easily come in here.”

“A criminal?” Sergio felt his heart give a sharp pound. He held Eric’s hand, kissing it. “Baby, what are you saying? I don’t think someone would dare come here. It was just an accident. I think you are overthinking.”

“No, Sergio!” He shook his head. “Believe me. I know what I saw and…”

“Wow!” Kim clapped, getting closer to her son and Eric. “A criminal come in here? Can you even hear yourself? This place has tight security and the only way someone would come in here is if they have a death wish. Before we know it, you’ll start pointing at Giada and Trevor. But do you know what, you’re right? Someone did try to kill my son today and that person was you.”

“Mom!” Sergio snapped. “What the hell are you talking about?”

“What do you want me to say?” Kim screamed. “Ever since that boy came to this house, he’s been plotting and now he wants to put his plans into action. Open your eyes and see that what this boy wants is revenge. Till when will you wake up and…”

“Mom, please!” Adrianna gestured, shaking her head. “Do you think this is the time for this?”

“What time should I say it? When my son is dead?”

“Please, believe me.” Eric sighed, combing his hair with his fingers. “Someone was trying to harm Sergio and me. I know what I saw and…”

“Baby…” Sergio wrapped his arms around Eric, bringing him closer to his chest. “Don’t worry about anything. Nothing will happen to you as long as I am here. I promise. No one will ever harm you.”

Eric felt safe in his husband’s arms. His touch made the room warmer somehow but he couldn’t shake off the feeling that something was wrong. He knew exactly what he had seen and he knew it was gonna be difficult to forget about it.

“Sergio, I think you should take Eric inside,” Steve suggested. “He needs to rest and relax.”

Sergio nodded and started his baby towards the staircase, kissing his head from time to time. Everyone else watched as they left. Then Steve dismissed the guests, thanking them for their support and apologizing for the problems they had encountered.

“I knew this boy was gonna kill my Sergio, mommy?” Trevor said in a trembling voice. “I told you that he wasn’t to be trusted.”

“He’s started showing off his evil.” Giada sighed, rubbing her forehead. “Who knows what evil…”

“Enough, Giada!” Laurel snapped, furiously rushing towards her. She stood in front of her, staring at her like she wanted to kill her. “Not another word about my son. My son is not the devil here. We both know who the devils in this room are and I am sure that whatever happened you were the cause of it. You’ve always done whatever you can to hurt my son but this…”

“Mrs. Hernandez, I will not have you disrespect my guests,” Kim warned, her voice rising. “Surely, I don’t come to your house to disrespect your guests.”

“Really?” Laurel laughed, shaking her head. “Why am I not surprised that you’re rather worried about these two devils than your son that was almost killed? Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were part of this scheme.”

“Excuse me!” Kim snapped, stomping her foot on the floor. Her breaths were like flaming deathly arrows. “How dare you accuse me of trying to kill my son and his husband? Whom do you think you are, Laurel?”

“Eric’s mother!” Her cold fury burnt with dangerous intensity. “And I’ll not let anything happen to either Eric or Sergio. Got it!” She snapped her fingers three times. Laurel was surprised. “I know you hate my son so much that you would anything to separate the two of them. Even murder.”

“How…”

“Aunt Laurel, Aunt Kim, please!” Steve went in between them. “This is all a misunderstanding. It was an accident. No one would dare come unless they have a death wish. You heard Sergio himself. We’re all family here, aren’t we? We can sort this out.”

“Yes!” Adrianna nodded. “We’re all family here. Except for two outsiders that should have left with the other guests. Honestly, I don’t know what you both are still doing here.” She yelled, staring at Giada and Trevor while gesturing towards the door. “The party is over so can you please get the hell out of here.”

“Adrianna, the thing is…”

“Don’t call my name!” Adrianna snarled, shaking her head. “Just get out of here. No one needs you here.”

Trevor clenched his fist, a frown appearing on his face. Once again, he was at the edge of humiliation in front of everyone. He gave Adrianna a cold look, hissed, and stormed out of there together with his shameless mother. They could hear Derrick’s mocking laughs as they left.

“You know what, go ahead and humiliate your mother all you can.” Kim snapped at her daughter. “But one day, you’ll realize that I was right all along.”

She hissed and stormed out of there.

The remaining members were so stressed and scared. They just stood there awkwardly quiet, trying to erase the scary experience.

***

Sergio knelt in front of Eric, taking his hand into his. He stared into his eyes but the boy was still looking worried. He was seated on the bed, his eyes glancing throughout the room. He was somehow scared and felt like something bad was gonna happen.

“Eric, please relax.” He sighed, rubbing on his hands sweetly. “You need to calm down or you’ll be sick. I know what had happened back there was scary but it was probably an accident.”

“I know what I am saying, Sergio!” Eric shook his head. “I know what I saw. I had been feeling uneasy ever since I stepped into that party. I saw the man and I saw him again when that lighting equipment almost fell on us.”

“I know it’s scary, my love. But I am right here.” He cupped his face, staring into those beautiful eyes. “I won’t let anything bad happen to you. I swear!”

“But what if something happens to you?”

Sergio smiled at Eric’s question. “How can anything happen to me when you’re around? I am safe because I have my guardian angel with me.”

“Sergio…”

“Okay!” He took a glass of water from the table. “Take some water and you’ll feel much better.”

“Sergio, no! I…”

“Do it for me, my love!” Sergio pleaded, grinning at the boy. “Please!”

Eric sighed gloomily, rubbing the sweat off his forehead. He took a sip of the water and gave the glass back to his husband. His heart was still pounding deep in his chest and there was no way to mask the look on his face.

Sergio sat closer to him, wrapping an arm around him. He brought him closer and planted a soft kiss on his head.

“Sergio, I am really worried.” He muttered, burying his head in Sergio’s chest. “Something is wrong here. I don’t wanna lose you.”

“You won’t lose me.” Sergio chuckled happily. “Did you see what happened there? That was probably God’s test so that he could show everyone how much we love each other. Our love is so strong that there is no force out there that can drive us away from each other. We’re destined to be together forever, through thick and thin. My love for you will always be there to shield you and protect you from any harm. I swear. Always know that I love you so much!”

Those words, those words washed over Eric and he felt himself calming. Something not only stirred in him, but it took over his thinking. The rest of the world at that moment became an unimportant blur that was banished into the far recess of his mind.

He slowly raised his head and stared at his husband, getting lost in that handsome face of his.

“You’ll forget about what had happened today. Won’t you, my love?” He asked, caressing his cheek. “We cannot let what happened tonight disturb our beautiful moments together. Right now, I need my baby with me. The one who’s wild and sexy.”

Eric felt himself getting shy and he began blushing, dropping his eyes to the floor.

“Oh, you’re killing me with your beauty right now.” Sergio teased, raising Eric’s head with his chin. He moved closer, grasping the back of Eric’s head. He brought him closer, their lips brushing on one each other. Both their eyes started closing on their own. “You have no idea what you do to me whenever I am close to you, Eric!”

“What?” Eric moaned, feeling like his lips had just been connected to a cable of electricity. “Tell me, my love.”

“It’s… it’s not something that I can tell you.” Sergio’s body was on fire. He began sweating like a teenager near a campfire on a hot summer. “But rather something that I can show you.”

“Then…” Eric moaned as his lips began parting. “…what are you waiting for? Show me. I am dying to know what it is.”

From that instant, Sergio closed the remaining space in between them with a slow, fiery and passionate kiss. From a simple kiss, all their troubles seemed to melt away and they were once again caught in a fire that couldn’t be quenched. Before they realized it, they were lying on the bed, Sergio on top of Eric, kissing away all his troubles. In that simple moment, everything seemed to be fine. There was nothing that mattered other than their love for each other.

***

Trevor stormed inside his room, throwing all his stuff to the floor. He standing moving about the room, breathing like a wounded animal. He felt as if his lungs were slowly filling with water as if there was just less space in them for the air. He bit his nails severally, feeling like someone was forcing needles in his fingers.

“Come on, pudding, what are you worried about?” Giada asked as she entered the room, wearing that evil grin that she didn’t wanna wipe out. “Relax! Whatever we experienced back there, all those insults from Andrea and laurel were nothing but a minor setback.”

“Minor setback, mother?” He yelled, trying to fight his tears of anger. “I don’t give an ass about that dumb girl. But do you know how scared I was today? I was on the verge of losing the love of my life. He almost died today. Do you know how hurt I was? I have never been so scared in my life before.”

“Pudding…”

“No, mother!” Trevor shook his head. His voice kept on rising. “I agreed to all this majorly because I want to get back my husband. Right now, we’re very rich and powerful as well. I have got my wish but the only thing remaining to complete my happiness is Sergio. And I almost lost him today.”

“He wasn’t harmed in any way,” Giada reassured, holding her son’s arms tightly. “Sergio is safe and sound.”

“For now!” Trevor snarled. “I don’t care what happens to that stupid whore, Eric, because he stole my husband. But I will not take it if anything happens to Sergio.”

“My love, you know that this move was necessary. We may be rich again and we’re on the ladder to power but Eric is the greatest obstacle in our way. He’s richer, more powerful, and influential. We need to eliminate him if we plan to be successful.”

“Fine!” He chuckled, giving a half shrug. “I agree with you. Eric needs to die but I don’t want the life of my husband to be put at risk here. I don’t wanna be a widower because I’ll die if anything happens to my husband, mommy.”

Giada couldn’t understand her son. She cared about him but honestly, she didn’t care whatever happened to Eric and whoever he took with him. She wasn’t gonna let a simple man like Sergio get in her way. She was gonna eliminate him if need be and she wasn’t gonna have any regrets.

“My love, I understand you. Your father might not be with us anymore but I do understand you love him. Honestly, I never thought the attempt on Eric’s life was gonna be when he was with Sergio.” She was lying through her teeth. “I don’t make these calls….”

“Tell him then!” Trevor snarled, balling his fist. “Unless I am assured of Sergio’s safety, I am gonna back out. I don’t care about what we do with Eric but I need to get back with Sergio.”

“And it will happen. At the end of it all, we’re gonna emerge victoriously. Just give it…”

“As long as Sergio is safe!” Trevor pointed, shaking his head.

“He’ll be safe,” Giada reassured with her beautiful smile. “I promise! Now get some rest and prepare for your big victory. Because it’s sooner than you think.”

She kissed his head and patted his shoulder before she left his room. Trevor clenched his fist, starting to breathe like he was in labor. He was filled with so much anger and pain. From going to that party, he’d only experienced nothing but pain.

“I am not backing down without a fight this time, Eric.” He muttered, his fists clenching. “I shall have the last laugh. I swear.”

It was now time to fight a war he should have fought long ago to get Sergio back.

***

“Now what?” Giada asked, pacing around her room. “What are we gonna do? That stupid boy dodged the attempt.”

‘I told you Eric is very smart and dangerous.’ The man said in an evil voice on the other end. ‘He knew that someone was watching him and he became suspicious. The whole time the party was going on, he was very alert. He had a slim chance of survival but he still did.’

“You need to do something.” Giada hollered. “We need to get rid of that boy or else, he’s gonna ruin our plans. You need to send back that man…”

‘No!’ The man gave a frustrated groan. ‘It’s too dangerous for my henchman to go back to that house. Eric is now even more alert and whatever mistake we make, he’s gonna find us out. And then he’s gonna ruin our plans. It was very risky to send him there in the first place. I can’t risk it.’

“Then what do we do?”

‘I am gonna put my plan into action.’ The man laughed maniacally. ‘Tomorrow, you’re gonna watch as a storm hits the Alvarado mansion. I am gonna strike and whatever will be found in my way shall burn to ashes without a second thought.’

“Hmmm…” Giada moaned, biting her lip. “…I love the sound of that. But what about Eric?”

‘I am gonna deal with him myself.’ He groaned. ‘That boy will never know what hit him.’

“I love it!” She laughed, taking in a harsh breath. “Now we’re gonna see how he’s gonna survive this. He’s got no idea what’s coming his way. Just tell me what I need to do.”

‘Nothing for now! I will tell you when I need you. For now, just concentrate on our work. It is much more important. And one more thing Giada…’ He paused and it felt so quiet on the other end. ‘…I need you to be extra careful. If that boy starts suspecting you’re up to something, it will expose us all. I need you to be careful in all you do.’

“With pleasure!” She grinned evilly. “I always have my tracks covered.”

‘Good! Wait for my instructions.”

With that, the call was cut and Giada remained standing there like an evil fairytale queen.

‘It’s coming, Eric. I will hit two birds with one stone and this time, nothing is gonna prevent your downfall.’

She laughed at the top of her voice, enjoying the feel of power.

***

“Okay, listen, I want everything to be in order before the meeting starts,” Sergio ordered. “This meeting has been on hold for almost a month now. I want the clients to be fully satisfied. We shouldn’t give them any reason to complain.”

‘No, sir…’ The woman on the other end sounded excited that he was back. ‘…I will not disappoint you.’

“I trust you.” Sergio chuckled, taking in a deep breath. “I will be arriving in the next 30 minutes. Should the clients arrive before that, entertain them and make sure they’re happy?”

‘I got you, super-boss.’

Sergio laughed at his assistant’s words. He cut the call and continued downstairs, staring at his phone. He had a beautiful smile on his face. It was his first day at work after a whole month of not being seeing. He knew many people were expecting to see him and he couldn’t wait to see them.

Sergio was dressed in a beautiful blood red designer’s suite with a pink striped shirt inside, and a red necktie. He had red shoes on his feet and his hair was gelled to perfection. He looked amazing in the suit and he seemed happy. Married life seemed to be doing him good and he couldn’t deny that. His husband had chosen the outfit for him.

Sergio came downstairs and was about to call Eric’s name when he raised his head and froze. Shit, Eric was coming towards him with a smile on his face, looking like a sex god. He was dressed in a blue t-shirt and black designer’s skinny jeans with sandals on his feet. He was wearing a red apron that just made him look out of this world.

His hair was loose and there was little wind blowing on his face. God, Sergio felt his heart drop into his stomach and his blood began racing. He bit his lip to suppress a moan, staring at the boy like he was seeing him for the first time.

“What’s this? Are you trying to kill me?” He teased. “I don’t think I am ready to die just yet.”

“What are you talking about?” Eric asked, crossing his arms on his chest. But the man didn’t even move. “Hey, can you stop staring at me?”

“How do I do that?” Sergio got closer and rested his hand on Eric’s waist, pulling him closer. “And why should I? Praising and staring at you is my duty. I am your husband after all. Let me do my duty, my love.”

He began kissing Eric’s neck, drawing chuckles from him. “Hey! What are you doing?” He pulled away from him, raising an eyebrow. “Have you forgotten that you have a very important meeting this morning? You need to leave.”

“Will you come with me?” He asked, taking Eric’s hand. “This meeting will be more interesting if you come with me.”

“Hmmm, a tempting offer.” He said, rubbing on his temple. “But I am gonna have to decline. I have duties, Mr. Alvarado. I have duties to take care of this household and the people in it. Don’t be selfish.”

“Can you blame me?” He moaned. “Especially when you look so sexy in that apron? And the breakfast you prepared for me was so delicious. There was only one problem.”

“Which is?”

“You weren’t there to feed me, my baby.” He smiled, grasping Eric’s waist. “And now, I need one more thing before I leave.” He gestured to his lips with his finger. “A long and satisfying kiss to help me throughout the day.”

Sergio’s eyes were gazing into Eric’s. Eric stared back at his husband’s beautiful green eyes that glimmered like the stars in the sky. Sergio looked at his lips and he knew exactly what he was about to do. He was leaning forward and Eric was moving closer. And when their lips touched, they moved together like two dancers sashaying through a melody.

But the kiss wasn’t long and Eric pulled away, smiling at his husband. He sexily rubbed on his lips, watching as a satisfying look graced his face. God, the man was just the definition of hunky and sexy.

“And now my handsome husband can go to work, right?”

“But…”

“No buts!” Eric laughed, pulling away and crossing his arms. “I am serious. It’s bad manners to keep your clients waiting, Mr. Alvarado. You need to leave right now.”

“Hmmm…” Sergio shook his head. “…let me trouble you for the last time.”

“No! You need to leave right now. Go!”

“Okay!” Sergio raised his hands like he was surrendering. “But…”

He quickly leaned forward, kissing Eric’s lips by surprise. Eric laughed, hitting him on the shoulder. Sergio was just too excited.

“And now I have to leave.” He said with his hands still raised. “Don’t murder me. But…”

“Go!”

Sergio smiled and started leaving. But he was going backward, staring at his beautiful husband and throwing him air kisses. He continued doing that until he completely left the house.

Eric stood in the living room, his lips parted and a smile gracing his beautiful face. He was giddy with excitement. He wanted to run, to shout, to tell the world that he was the happiest man alive. His husband had just left but he wanted him back. He wanted to be kissing him and to be lying on his chest.

Suddenly, Eric heard the sound of heels and he quickly got out of his reverie. He made a quick turn and found Kimberly coming downstairs with a stern look on her face as always. She was looking beautiful in a black designer’s dress that stuck on her like a second skin and made her look like a high school teen.

Seeing her, Eric couldn’t help but smile.

“Good morning, mother.” He greeted excitedly. “Err… breakfast is almost ready. I just came here to wish my husband good luck as he left for the office. Why don’t you go and sit in the dining? I will serve you breakfast right now.”

“Don’t bother!” Kim snapped, rolling her eyes. “I am not interested in your food. I’d rather starve than eat your poison.”

“What?” He gasped, the smile on his face fading. “Mother, what are you saying? Why would I poison you? You’re my husband’s mother and I wouldn’t dare…”

“Just don’t talk to me!” Kim warned, waving her finger in his face. “Your innocent looks and your sweet talk does not affect me. I don’t care what you do in this house but stay away from me. I don’t wanna repeat myself because you’ll only get hurt.”

She quickly turned and stormed out of there. Eric remained standing there with his hand on his forehead. His heart was racing and he just kept on watching Kim as she left.

‘My relationship with her keeps on getting worse. I am gonna have to do something.’ He thought.

***

Sergio was seated in the conference room with his hands on the table, staring at his board members who were busy talking among themselves. His meeting with the clients had turned out better than he had anticipated. They talked more about him than work, his marriage, and how happy he was. It seemed the news of his marriage had taken everyone by surprise.

Sergio had a smile on his face as he thought limitlessly about Eric, his beautiful smile, and the kiss they’d shared that morning. He might have been in that meeting but his mind was back at home with Eric. He couldn’t wait to go back and just hold him.

“Isn’t that right, Sir?”

Sergio came back to his mind when he heard someone calling him. He found everyone’s eyes on him, staring at him like they expected him to say something. He chuckled nervously and stared at his friend that was staring at him with a raised eyebrow.

“What do you think?” Steve asked. “It’s a good idea, right? I am sure the clients will be satisfied.”

“Err…. Sure!” He gasped, chuckling nervously. “I agree with you all. It’s a good idea. We should go with it.”

“Alright, it’s settled.” Steve smiled. “You heard the man. We can do this.”

Everyone seemed very happy. Steve leaned towards Sergio, bringing him a bit closer.

“By the way, I know your mind wasn’t here.” He whispered. “You don’t even know what we were discussing or what you have just approved.”

“Can you blame me?” Sergio chuckled softly. “Marriage seems to be taking over my mind. I can’t help but think about Eric and what he’s doing right now. Maybe it was a bad idea coming to this meeting. I should have let you handle everything.”

“Finally, something we both can agree on.”

The two men laughed softly, shaking their heads. It was a wonderful time for the both of them, reconnecting after what felt like forever. It was the first time they spent a long time since Sergio’s marriage. However…

“Good afternoon everyone!” A happy voice rang through the conference room followed by footsteps.

Sergio felt like someone had just hit him in the chest with a heavy load. His fists clenched with that voice and he didn’t even bother to look in the direction to see who it was. He knew very well that it was Trevor and he as hell didn’t wanna see him.

“Hi, baby!” Trevor moaned, rushing to where Sergio was seated.

He wrapped his arm around his shoulder, kissing his cheek. Sergio felt disgusted and he angrily wiped his cheek, glancing at Trevor like the most disgusting thing that he had ever seen. He rolled his eyes, clenching his fists.

“The meeting is dismissed,” Sergio said to his board members, getting up from the chair.

Everyone started leaving except for Steve who just stood there, staring at Trevor with displeasure on his face.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Sergio snarled, giving him angry eyes. “And what was the meaning of that?”

“What?” Trevor shrugged, chuckling softly. “Is it wrong to kiss my husband? Or maybe you want more, maybe on the lips. I can do that.”

He started getting closer to Sergio but surprisingly, he was pushed. He felt hurt but he didn’t lose that smile on his face. He licked his lips, giving Sergio the come fuck me look. But Sergio wasn’t interested.

“And I ask again. What the fuck are you doing here? I don’t remember sending you an invitation to come here.”

“Do I need permission to see my husband?” Trevor shrugged. “It’s my right and besides, we haven’t spent any quality time for so long. I miss you so much.”

“Don’t!” Sergio warned, waving his finger in the air. “Don’t you ever touch me?”

“What…”

“Trevor, what nonsense is this, huh?” Steve gasped, shaking his head. “Badging into our meeting like that and now you’re flirting with a married man? Don’t you have better things to do? You know very well that Sergio is a married man and…”

“I don’t give a fuck about his marriage!” Trevor snapped, breathing like a beast. “As far as I am concerned, Sergio is my man. He was mine before and he’ll always remain mine. That boy stole him away from me and if you think I am gonna back out then you’ve got another thing coming. I am the one that truly loves him.”

Sergio laughed at Trevor’s words, shaking his head. “Can you hear yourself? You’re the one that loves me? Well, I don’t give two hoots about your love because I don’t love you. All my love is for Eric.”

“He doesn’t love you.”

“I am not complaining, am I?” He shrugged. “What matters is that I love him. I don’t love you and I am glad that I didn’t end up with you.”

“What?” Trevor felt like someone had just squeezed his heart. The pain he felt was from out of this world. “After all that I’ve done for you. You left me on the altar and you didn’t even apologize.”

“For what? Following my heart?” He shrugged, losing his cool. “I have no regrets about what I did. Even if Eric hadn’t agreed to marry me, I don’t think I would have gone ahead to marry a snake like you. All you ever did was blackmail me and use my mother to get what you wanted from me. But right now, I am free and with a boy that deserves my love.”

“You think he’s gonna love you more than I do?” Trevor shouted. “You’re dead wrong because that boy has been fucking David behind your back.”

“It doesn’t matter.” Sergio smiled. “But what can I expect from a manipulative fool like you. Now if you’re done with what you came here for, that’s the door!” He gestured rudely. “And let this be the first and last time you badge into my company like that. The next time, I will have you locked up for a long time.”

Trevor paused and sighed. His heart was now shattered by Sergio’s words although he still loved him a lot. This heartbreak felt cold. It felt like concrete drying in his chest. He couldn’t understand why Sergio couldn’t just see through him and grab that love that he felt.

“What are you still waiting for?” Sergio said harshly. He didn’t care if he had hurt Trevor’s feelings because he had had it up to his neck. “Should I call security?”

Trevor chuckled bitterly, rubbing a tear that was making its way down his cheek.

“If you think your words are gonna drive me away from you, Sergio, then you don’t know me that well.” He chuckled, getting even closer. “I never give up on what’s mine. And no matter what, you are gonna be mine once again. That is my promise to you.”

He sent air kisses to Sergio and then winked at him before he turned and left laughing maniacally. Sergio groaned in frustration, hitting his head angrily. The idiot always managed to make him upset.

“Calm down, Sergio, don’t let him get to you.”

“What the fuck does he still want?”

“Isn’t it obvious that he is so obsessed with you?” Steve asked with a chuckle. “I don’t know how you were able to put up with him before but I’d urge you to be careful. Trevor and his mother are very cunning people. They might be planning something terrible to separate you and Eric.”

“Oh, please!” He threw his hand. “I’d love them to see them try because nothing will ever separate me from Eric.”

“You might be right. But I’d still want you to be careful.” He sighed. “Giada and Trevor are bad news.”

Sergio didn’t know what Steve was worried about but he wasn’t. He knew Trevor was just a horny idiot that wanted to get into his pants. But he wasn’t gonna dance to those tunes anymore. He was a different man and Eric’s love was changing him.

“Alright, man!” He tapped on his friend’s shoulder. “I have heard you. I’ll be extra careful.”

“Cool!”

The two men left the conference room talking and laughing. Sergio was telling Steve about how wonderful his one month honeymoon had been and how much he missed the honeymoon.

***

“Of course, I already promised you, didn’t I?” Kim laughed as she entered her bedroom. “I am gonna make it. Nothing will prevent me from having our annual get together. It’s been our friendship ritual for as long as I can remember.”

‘If that’s the case then, we’ll begin the preparations.’ The woman on the other end spoke. ‘See you tomorrow.’

“Same!” Kim chuckled.

She cut the call and closed the door behind her. She rushed inside, throwing the phone on the bed. Then she took a sigh, running her fingers through her hair. She felt very tired and just wanted to take a shower.

But suddenly, she heard her phone buzzing and she took a sigh, rushing there. With a smile, she took her phone and just chuckled as she opened the message. She knew it was probably from her friend.

But when she opened that text, the first thing that Kim felt was the thumping of her heart against her chest. Then came the throbbing of her eyes as they widened beyond what she had thought possible. She couldn’t hear her rapid breathing but she felt oxygen flooding in and out of her lungs. Her body started shaking and she felt the sweat drench her skin.

‘How will it feel when the dark secret you’ve been keeping for the last 27 years comes to the surface?’ The message read.

Kim’s mouth started shaking uncontrollably and she felt sweat rolling down her forehead. She raised her head, staring in front of her while her hands trembled that she almost dropped the phone.

‘W-what?” She muttered. “What kind of message is this? And who sent it?”

She quickly started typing abruptly but to her dismay, she couldn’t send the message. It was a private number and she had no idea who had sent it.

“No! Someone is playing tricks on me.” She shook her head, trying to calm herself down. “This is all just a prank.” She hit her head. She wanted to believe it but then, she was so scared that she couldn’t even think straight.

Kim quickly deleted the message but before she even did anything else, another message came.

‘Why do you look shocked? Did you think you were gonna hide it forever?’

Kim’s hands trembled and her eyes watered as she took a glance all around the room to see if there was anyone there. Maybe someone was hiding there, someone that was playing pranks on her and watching her every move. But there was no one there and besides, why was she scared.

Kim almost jumped up when she felt the phone vibrating in her hands. She felt like something had just pulled on her soul. A tear went down her cheek as she glanced at the phone to see who it was.

“A private number!” She gasped as her hand trembled on the answer button.

Kimmy had no idea if she wanted to answer the call. But she took a deep breath and pressed the button.

“Hello!” She said confidently. “Who is this and what do you want from me?”

‘So, Kim, did you like my message?’ A man laughed in a distorted voice that gave Kim chills. His voice was like the magma chamber of a volcano, deep, but entirely with the molten rock.

Kim was scared but she wasn’t gonna show it. “What are you talking about? What secret are you talking about? Stop this nonsense and…”

‘Nonsense!’ He chuckled manically, chirping. Kim could have sworn she was talking to the devil or a demon. ‘That’s what you call…’

“Look, you motherfucker, it seems like you’ve got nothing to do,” Kim warned. “You don’t me that well and maybe you shouldn’t have even played this prank. If I were you, I’d be afraid because...”

‘Afraid? You’re the one that should be afraid. You call me a motherfucker…’ He chirped, scaring Kim even more. ‘…now you’ll be responsible for the consequences.’

Kim felt her pulse throbbing in her ears and she found herself engulfed in cold silence. Her body got cold and she could have sworn she felt her hair move. Her eyes widened and she couldn’t understand the fear that took her by storm.

‘There’s a package as we speak at the door. That package contains all your secrets and now your son in law is about to get it.’ The man laughed manically on the other end. ‘Now you’ll know who shouldn’t fuck with whom.’

With those words, the phone cut.

“Hello!” Kim hollered. “Wait!”

But it was too late. And before she even put her phone down, she heard the doorbell downstairs.

Her body instantly felt hot and sweat started trickling down her neck. She gasped harshly and started making a run for it out of her room. With every move that she made, she got more and more terrified. Fortunately, she reached downstairs and got the shock of her life when she saw Eric closing the door and holding a small red wrapped box. He had a curiously look on his face, staring at the box.

Kim’s breaths quickened and she got pale. Fear took ahold of her, torturing her guts, churning her stomach in intense cramps. It engulfed her mind, knocking all her thoughts. She had no idea what was in that box but she couldn’t let Eric open it.

She started running like the hounds of hell where after her towards Eric who was busy removing the wrapping from the parcel. He was about to open it when all of a sudden, Kim reached there and grabbed it from him.

Eric’s brain stuttered for a moment and his eyes took in more light than he expected, every part of him went on pause while he stared at Kim who was holding the parcel like her life depended on it. She was white as chalk and her eyes and mouth were frozen wide open in an expression of stunned surprise. She was staring straight at Eric but she appeared not to notice him at all.

“Mother, are you okay?” He asked, sounding a little worried. “I wanted to open the parcel. I think it’s from Sergio. May I please have it?”

Kim felt a shiver go down her spine. “Errr… no! This?” She chuckled nervously, sounding like a little girl that had been caught stealing candy. “It just came for me. I… I… I had ordered something and I was informed it has just arrived.”

“Oh!” Eric smiled. “Sorry, mother, I thought it was from Sergio.”

“Err…. No!” She shook her head, gripping the box as if he was gonna grab it from her. “It’s just my parcel. And speaking of Sergio, hasn’t he arrived yet? You should prepare something for him. He might be hungry by the time he gets back here. You know how he is.” She was finding it hard to keep herself under control. “And you should eat something too. You must be hungry.”

Eric stood there staring at his mother in law like she’d grown another head. To say he was surprised would be an understatement.

“Errr… yeah, I just talked to him. He’ll be arriving very soon.”

“Good!” She chuckled, gesturing to the staircase. “I will be… in my room when he arrives. Take care of him.”

She took a deep breath and started rushing upstairs. She was scared as fuck and her legs felt like jelly. She lost count of the number of steps that she had missed. But she knew she had to get out of there.

‘What just happened?’ Eric thought as he gazed upon his mother in law, watching as she made a mess of herself. ‘Why was mother acting as she had just seen a ghost? She seemed really scared and she looked pale. For the first time since I came here, she talked to me like she cared about me. But why was she acting like that? Could something be wrong with her? Was she lying to me?’

But the more he thought, the more worried he got and the more questions he got in his head. He just remained there watching the staircase like a statue.

*

Kim reached her room and she locked the door. She was wet all over the face, breathing like death was just around the corner. She put the box on the bed and quickly removed the wrappings. When she opened the box, she felt her heart sink in her stomach. Her breaths stopped for a minute and tears welled in her eyes.

She slowly moved her hand and got the item that was in the box, what seemed like a letter. She opened it to get another shock. There was a small smiling teddy bear with a note strapped to his belly. She took the bear and looked at the note.

‘Peekaboo!’ The note read.

There was nothing else there. Kim took a deep breath, rubbing the sweat off. And for a moment there, she’d thought everything was over. She started panting, feeling like air had just returned to her.

But she didn’t get to enjoy that moment as her phone began ringing. It was the same number and she didn’t even take time to answer it.

‘Kim! Kim! Kim!’ The man laughed on the other end. ‘How did you like my gift?’

Fear curled up inside her and clung to her ribs, settling uncomfortably in her ribs.

“What do you want?” She couldn’t recognize her voice.

‘Why do you sound scared, Kimberly?’ The man laughed hysterically. ‘I thought you didn’t have any skeletons in your closet. Why did you run downstairs like that? You should have just let your son in law see what was inside. It would have been much fun.’

“Who are you? What do you want from me?”

‘You shouldn’t fuck with me, Kim!’ The man warned. ‘The next thing I am gonna send there will be your destruction. So if I were you, I’d listen to me.’

“What do you want?” Kim had never felt as scared as she did at that time. “Who are you?”

‘I am your worst nightmare, Kimberly. Someone that knows all your secrets!’ The man seethed.

“What do you want?” Kim gasped. “Is it money? Name your price and leave me alone!”

‘Where’s the fun in that?’ The man laughed, a laughter that made Kim’s heart hammer in her chest. ‘I want much more than the money you’re offering. I want to destroy you.’

Darkness washed over Kim sending another chill down her spine. It wasn’t a chill of passion. It was a chill of fear. The same fear that she had been scared of would come one day. Her past was haunting her, a shadow was after her life.

‘This is gonna be fun, Kimberly!’ He laughed manically. ‘It is really gonna be fun. You’re gonna wish you were dead before this day comes.’

“I can pay you any amount!” Kim pleaded. “Just name it. I can even send a blank check but please, leave me alone.”

‘Now are we gonna do this?’ The man asked. ‘What would hurt you the most, Kim? Oh, I know…’

“Just say name your price and… hello! Hello!”

She moved the phone from her ear and found the call had been cut. She went to her call logs but there was nothing there. Suddenly, her phone began vibrating and she received a message.

‘You still don’t seem to understand. Kim, you can’t run away from your shadow. Let me demonstrate what I am saying to you.’

Almost in an instant, Kim received a media message, a video. She quickly opened it and pure terror surged through her veins, icy daggers straight to the heart. Her eyes widened and her body shook in fear.

The video she received was of her son. He was seated in the car talking on the phone happily with the brightest smile ever. Whoever was taking the video must have been outside because of the view. She felt like her legs couldn’t support her anymore and she dropped to the bed.

‘How would you love it if your son received a dose for a long sleep, Kim?’

‘No!’ She shook her head. ‘Not my son. No!”

Kimmy didn’t know when she started running out of her room or when she started heading towards the living room, looking all around. She wanted to see if her son was back or perhaps if he was on his way. His life was in danger and she needed to save him.

“Eric!” She shouted as she rushed down the stairs. “Eric, where are you? Eric!”

She reached the living room and standing shouting like she was going insane.

“Eric!”

“Mother?” Eric gasped as he rushed into the living room. “What’s going on? Are you okay?”

“Where’s Sergio?” She gasped. “Has he come back home? Did he call you? I need to know if he’s back home already.”

“Mother, calm down. Sergio is fine.”

“Where’s he? I need to…”

“Mom?”

Kim felt like her life had just been returned to her when she heard her son’s voice. She quickly looked in his direction and found him entering the house with a frown on his face. He was holding his jacket in one hand and he had a box in the other hand.

“Sergio?”

Kim gasped and she rushed to her son, wrapping her arms around him. She started kissing his face like a little child, holding him even tighter. To say Sergio was surprised would be a total understatement. He hadn’t expected his mother to act like that. He had missed her embrace but he was also surprised.

“My son, are you alright?” She gasped, cupping his face. “Tell me you’re okay?”

“I… I am fine!” He stuttered, a frown appearing on his face. “Are you okay, mommy? You look pale. Are you sick?”

“Don’t worry about me.” Kim tried her best to smile. “I am fine. What matters is that you’re fine.”

She smiled and that was when she saw the box he was holding in his other hand. “What… what’s that?”

“Oh…” Sergio chuckled happily. “…it’s a cake. I got it for Eric.”

Hesitantly, Kim’s eyes look at the box. ‘How would you love it if your son received a dose for a long sleep?’

Those words got to Kim so much that she started sweating. A whole lot of terrifying thoughts went through her head. What if something had been put in that cake, she thought as she tried to bring herself under control. She couldn’t take these threats lightly and she needed to do something.

Kim chuckled nervously and quickly grabbed the box from her son, smiling sheepishly at him.

“You know what, you’ve done the right thing.” She nodded. “I was just craving for a cake. You truly know what your mother needs.”

“But mommy, that cake was for Eric and…”

“It’s fine, Sergio!” Eric said with a smile as he walked to his husband. “I don’t have a problem as long as mother is happy.”

“See!” She chuckled nervously, patting on his back. “Eric completely understands.”

“But mom…”

“Come on, you must be tired.” She said, trying her best to smile. “Why don’t you go and freshen up and then eat something? Meanwhile, I’ll enjoy this cake.”

Sergio shrugged, kissing his husband’s cheek. He held his waist before kissing his mother and the both of them started heading upstairs happily arm in arm. Kim watched as the two of them left and she was in so much fear. Suddenly, she felt her phone vibrate and she quickly glanced at it.

‘You’re a quick one, aren’t you? I didn’t even do anything and you’re acting paranoid. But will you save your family from my poison, Kimmy? Until next time!’

Kim quickly deleted the message and sighed, looking at the box she was holding.

‘It seems whoever this person is, he is keeping a tab on me.’ She thought. She was clammy and there was a glisten of cold sweat. ‘Who could he be and how does he know about my secret after so many years. I need to be very careful because whoever he is, he seems very dangerous. I need to find out who he is before he destroys what I have built for so long.’

She took a deep breath and started heading outside. She needed to get rid of the cake without her son seeing her. She didn’t wanna be questioned and she also knew that she had to do something quickly before she found herself in deep soup.

***

Sergio came out of the bathroom, toweling his hair. He was dressed in beautiful black cargo shorts with a white t-shirt and sandals on his feet. He was just taking a quick shower. When he entered the room, he saw Eric seated on the bed, leaning towards the board. He seemed lost in his thoughts and Sergio couldn’t help but admire how beautiful he looked.

He dropped the towel on a chair and walked to him.

“Hey! I missed you.” He moaned, taking Eric’s hand. Eric got out of his thoughts and he looked at his smiling husband. “You have no idea how much I was dying to see your beautiful face.”

He sat closer to him, cupping his face in his hands. He leaned in and captured those beautiful lips in a sensational kiss that blew him away. But something was wrong and he could feel it. The kiss was felt… wrong. He slowly pulled away, caressing Eric’s cheek while staring into his eyes.

“Baby, what’s wrong?” He asked softly. “You seem lost and…”

“Sergio, I think there’s something wrong with mom.” Eric chimed in, taking a harsh breath. “She acts differently from her usual self.”

“What?” Sergio laughed, raising an eyebrow. “She acts different? How? Oh, I am so sorry.” He hit his head. “Are you talking about the cake? I promise I will buy another one. I can order one right now if you want.”

“What? No!” He frowned. “I am not talking about the cake. She’s been acting strangely for a few hours now. Earlier, I had received a package which I thought was from you. Mom came and grabbed it from me and told me it was hers. She smiled and talked to me with care. I don’t understand.”

“Eric, I think you’re overthinking things.” Sergio kissed his hands. “That’s just the way mom is and…”

“Did you get the part where I said she spoke to me with care?” He raised an eyebrow. “This morning she insulted me and issued all kinds of warning and besides…” He sighed. “…didn’t you find her reaction downstairs strange? She was okay with seeing us together.”

Sergio shrugged. “Maybe she just wants to change.”

“But Sergio…”

“Shh….” Sergio blocked Eric’s lips with his finger. “…you don’t have to worry about anything. You’ll soon learn that that’s the way she is. Come tomorrow and you’ll see another side of her.”

Eric still wasn’t convinced. He had a strange feeling about what had been happening in the house since they returned from their honeymoon. First, they had almost been killed at their reception party and now Kim was acting weird. His husband may have been right but he couldn’t shake off that terrible feeling.

“Hey!” Sergio moved his head closer to Eric, slowly rubbing his cheek. “Everything is alright. And besides, I am starting to think you’re avoiding your husband. This is you and me time. Come back to me.”

“But…”

“Shhh…” He leaned in, so his forehead rested against Eric’s. “Everything is fine. You’re making me jealous here.” He teased, winking at the boy. “I missed you so much and I just want you to take care of me like a baby. You had promised to pamper me when I return, remember?”

Eric closed his eyes, his breath becoming shaky.

“I want you and I to spend some quality time together without any worries between us.” He moaned as his breaths crushed with Eric’s. God, everything seemed so magical.

Eric was starting to get in the mood. He knew his husband was trying to make him feel better and he didn’t want to make him feel bad in return.

“What do you want, my love?” Eric moaned softly as he felt Sergio’s nose brush on his. “I just want you to take care of me.”

Sergio leaned in and kissed Eric’s nose. “I want to feel your body so close to mine.” He kissed both his eyelids. “I wanna kiss you all over. I wanna be alone with you without anyone disturbing us. I missed you so much and…”

He paused and chuckled softly. He leaned in a little and his lips brushed Eric’s. Right at that moment, he kissed Eric and the world instantly fell away. It was slow and soft, comforting in every way that words would never be. His hand rested below Eric’s ear, his thumb caressing his cheek as their breaths mingled.

After what felt like hours, both of them pulled away and just stared at each other with billion-dollar smiles on their faces. No words came out of their mouths but the conversation going on between their souls was passionately sexy. They didn’t need any words between them. The rhythm of their hearts and the look they gave each other was enough.

“Let me take care of my handsome husband then!” Eric said in a tone that he barely recognized. “I missed you too and all I need is to be with you.”

He made Sergio lie on the bed with his head on his lap. Then he started playing with his soft hair while making sure that their eyes were locked on each other. The love between them was visible and nothing was gonna break them.

Sergio was so excited that he didn’t want anything to ruin that moment. Just being there with Eric, staring into his eyes and the feel of his hands in his hair was magical. Before long, Sergio found himself drifting off to sleep. Before long, he was fast asleep snoring softly but the smile on his face couldn’t be wiped off.

Eric on the other hand just stared at his husband, admiring his face. He leaned down and kissed his tender lips, rubbing on them softly. He would give anything just for that moment to last. He just continued staring at his sleeping husband with a smile. He didn’t mind doing it all night.

***

“Yeah, I got it!” Giada laughed hysterically. “I am looking at it right now.”

She was holding her tablet, looking at the video of Kim panicking when she had received the message in her room. She had an orgasmic look on her face, enjoying the sight of Kim panicking. She looked like she had seen a ghost. She had planted a very small camera in Kim’s room during the party and now they were gonna be seeing everything she did. There was also one in the living room.

She chirped, shaking her head before she put her table on the bed.

“Poor, poor Kimberly!” She gave a fake sigh. “Who would have guessed she’d be so scared?”

‘That’s not even fear!’ The man said on the other end. ‘She doesn’t know fear or pain. What’s coming her way will be worse and she’ll wish for death. I am gonna destroy that woman in ways she didn’t think possible!’

“I have no doubt!” She laughed. “I wanna see Kim kicked right off her thrown.” She snarled, clenching her fist. “I wanna see her cry. But no matter how much I wanna see her suffer, I want Eric to suffer even more. I want to see him breathe his last. I want to see him begging for his life. I wanna strangle the life out of him.”

‘All in good time, Giada! Our plan has already started and Eric will be out of the way just by the snap of my finger.’ The man vowed. ‘He’s the only one that can ruin our plans. We need to eliminate him as soon as possible. That’s why we need to keep a very close eye on him.’

“I have someone keeping an eye on him and his family.” She laughed maniacally. “I want that boy wiped off the surface of the earth. That will teach Laurel not to mess with me. Surely, the death of Eric will kill her and I’ll have my family once again.”

‘That’s why I like you. You’re so evil, Giada!’ The man said with a chuckle. ‘Now wait for tomorrow’s bomb. You’ll enjoy it!’

“As long as it involves Eric’s suffering. Nothing will make me happier.”

The phone cut and Giada started smiling like an evil warlord.

“Eric, I can’t wait to see you dead. It’s only a matter of time!”

She laughed manically quickly turning. But the moment she did, she just froze. She breathed in and out but air wouldn’t even enter her lungs. Starved for air, her heart raced at a tremendous speed, and her lungs shallowly rose and fell in time. Her eyes widened and her phone dropped to the floor. Each second submerged in fear made a permanent mark on her heart, and she wondered whether it was just her mind playing tricks or reality.

“B-b-brice?” She couldn’t recognize her voice.

Her husband stood a distance away from her, staring at her as he’d just caught her committing murder. He was wearing a white designer’s shirt that was tucked in black trousers with black shoes on his feet. Giada was so scared that she wondered how much he’d heard.

“Brice, I….”

“What kind of monster are you?” Brice muttered, shaking his head in anger. “And who were you talking to about hurting my son?”

“No…. I… I wasn’t talking to anyone, I swear.” She didn’t even realize that tears had welled in her eyes. “I… I… what are you doing here?”

“I can’t believe I was married to a monster all these years.” Brice gasped, getting closer to Giada. But Giada remained standing there, shaking her head. “What kind of woman are you? You’re capable of murder?”

“No, I…”

But Giada didn’t even finish her sentence as her arm was gripped painfully and her body slammed into the wall. It hurt like hell and she winced. Her breaths came in gasps and she felt like she was gonna blackout. Brice had a powerful grip on her arm and it felt like her bones were gonna break.

“Who were you talking to, Giada?” Brice barked, adding pressure to his wife’s arm. “Who the fuck were you talking to about murdering my son? Who?”

“I don’t know what you are talking about.” She groaned, trying to release her arm but only caused herself more pain. “I am not planning on killing… ouch! You’re hurting me.”:

“Tell me!” He yelled, literally crushing her bones.

“Ouch!”

“Who did you call?”

“I wasn’t talking to anyone.” She yelled. “I was just talking to my friend. Ouch! You’re hurting me.”

Brice’s face was red with suppressed anger. “I have been such a fool. And to think after all this time we’ve been apart, you were gonna learn your mistakes. I came here to try and fix our marriage but you’re worse than the devil himself. I am glad I came here the time I did, otherwise, I wouldn’t have known what you were planning against my son.

But now that I am here, I am gonna do what I should have done long ago. I am gonna protect my son from demons like you. I am going to expose you, Giada. I will make sure you stay behind bars.”

Giada’s mind started to fail, like an engine that turns over and over, never kicking into action. She couldn’t formulate a thought. Adrenaline flooded her system, pumping, and beating like it was trying to escape. Sweat started trickling down her neck and she felt a coldness that she hadn’t felt in her life before.

“I am gonna go to Eric and Kim and I will tell them everything.” He snarled. “It is over for you, Giada.”

With those words, he let go of her and she dropped to the floor with a thud. Giada was acting like a crazy woman, hugging herself while she was engulfed by a terrible cold. She raised her head to stare into her husband’s eyes but all she saw was hatred, anger, and resentment. She’d never seen that look in his eyes before and she knew he wasn’t joking.

“You’ll pay!”

Brice hissed and started rushing out of there with his fists clenched. There was no thinking about it. He was gonna save his son and that was it. He touched the doorknob to open the door but a sound like a heavy glass falling to the floor with a bang stopped him.

Before he could process anything, he felt a sharp pain burning like fire in his chest. He tried to breathe but felt like he’d breathed in sharp-edged swords. He couldn’t breathe properly and when he tried to take a deep breath, he coughed terribly and blood began coming out of his mouth.

He slowly moved his head to his chest and found that his shirt was heavily stained with blood and on his left side was a wound as if someone had stabbed him, blood gushing from there. That was when he realized that he’d been shot. He held his chest as his body began slowly shaking.

He dropped to his knees as he struggled to breathe. The pain throbbed in his chest and it felt like someone had their hand on his heart, squeezing it as hard as they could. The pain shot up fast, erasing every thought from his head and paralyzing his body. He tried to move but realized that he couldn’t do it.

Veins shot up in his eyes and they became blood red. Each breath he took only drove him closer to his death. His body was instantly cold and he felt numb all over. In just a few seconds, his shirt was entirely bloody and he could feel the warm blood running down his legs to the floor which had now been colored by his blood.

He wanted to say something but he dropped to the floor on his back, slowly moving his head towards Giada. Giada was holding a gun that shook in her hand like a leaf on a windy day. She was getting closer to him, her body quivering and her face wet with tears.

Quicker than he’d expected, black filled the edges of his vision and the only thing he could hear was his own heart. His breath came in ragged, shallow gasps. Seconds passed as he lay there, hearing Giada’s footsteps get closer and her harsh gasps. Everywhere was becoming darker and darker until he couldn’t see anything.

“You… you…”

That was the last word that came out of his mouth. His fragile, human heart-beat one last time.

“Oh my God!”

Giada dropped the gun to the floor. Her watery eyes enlarged and the hairs on the nape of her neck bristled. The paralyzing hurt spread through her body like icy, liquid metal. Her knees gave up and she dropped to the floor, staring at her dead husband’s corpse, not far from where she was, in a pool of blood.

Giada was panting, feeling like she was dead herself. That was the man that she loved and she had just killed him. She just stared at his corpse, feeling sick and asking herself what she had done. She was so scared that her body shook like a leaf.

Feel the passion