All Three of You–2
I can feel the uncertainty in the air, the hesitation in the way Jake and Aiden avoid looking at Zaid and me for too long.
They don’t know where they stand with me now. That realization clenches something inside my chest.
Without another thought, I step up behind Jake and wrap my arms around his waist, pressing my cheek against his back. He freezes for half a second before exhaling a slow breath, his body melting into mine.
I turn him around, cupping his face, and press my lips to his.
He sighs into the kiss, relief flooding through him as his hands settle on my hips. When I pull away, his forehead rests against mine, and I smile softly.
Aiden watches me with those piercing eyes, uncertainty flickering across his face. I don’t give him a chance to pull away; I close the space between us and kiss him just as deeply. He groans against my lips, his fingers tightening around my waist, pulling me closer.
When I step back, I meet both their gazes, letting my actions speak for themselves. I’m still here. I’m still yours.
Zaid steps beside me, his fingers brushing against mine before he moves to help them with breakfast. I go to the coffeemaker, pouring four cups as the house settles into an easier rhythm. The tension isn’t gone completely, but it’s lighter now.
We eat together at the table; the conversation starting slow before slipping into something more natural. But when the plates are empty, the real question finally comes.
Aiden leans back in his chair, eyes locked on mine. “So… what happened? Are you going to be with Zaid? Exclusively?”
I’m surprised that there’s no anger in his voice, just a tad bit of hurt. A bit of curiosity. Jake doesn’t look at me, just focuses on the rim of his coffee mug, as if bracing himself.
I shake my head immediately. “No. I don’t want that. I want all of you. I always have.”
Aiden and Jake both exhale at the same time, like they’ve been holding their breath.
1/3
All Three of You–2
I frown. “Why did you guys think things would change?”
Jake is the one who answers, setting his mug down. He looks at Zaid, then at me.
“Because I knew last night. I knew immediately that Zaid is in love with you. And by the way you looked at him, you are too.”
I don’t deny it.
Jake sighs, running a hand through his hair. “I love you, Alina. I feel so much for you. But
I can’t give you the same kind of crazy, world–shattering love that
Zaid can. Or Aiden.”
I frown at that, not really understanding.
He sighs before continuing. “I’m older. I’ve fallen in love enough times. And I’m not looking for that first, passionate kind of love the way you guys are.” He lets out a breath.
There’s a prick in my chest, because I understand what he means, and yet it almost feels like he’s the one breaking up with me.
“I don’t want to let you go, baby. You make me feel intense things. But if Zaid is the one who can give you everything you need, then I love you enough to step back.”
His words hit me deep, but I don’t hesitate. I leave Zaid’s side, stepping toward Jake and sliding onto his lap. I cup his face, forcing him to look at me.
“I need you,” I whisper. “I love you. And I need you.”
His throat bobs, something raw flashing in his eyes.
I turn to Aiden, reaching for his hand and gripping it tight. “And I need you too. I love you.” My voice shakes, but only because of how much I mean it. “I don’t want this to end. I love all three of you.”
2/3
