His optimism is contagious, spurring me on. But underneath the buoyant mood, I feel time pressing down. There is still so much to do, and only a finite number of days left before opening. That’s without even considering the elephant in the room—Tane Brown, and our fragile alliance with the Brixtons and the Snakes.
I take a deep breath, steadying my nerves. "Let's keep up the momentum," I say decisively. "I want to get the kitchen set up tomorrow. At least enough to be able to train people and try out some of the dishes I’ve been conceptualizing."
The men nod, rolling up their sleeves. Their solid reliability calms me. As long as we work in sync, we can accomplish anything.
Step by step, we will make this dream a reality. The path stretches before us, both thrilling and daunting. I’m just so grateful to have these loyal, supportive men by my side.
As the last of the lights are switched off, I take one final look around before locking up for the night. A sense of deep satisfaction washes over me as I survey the space. Though still a work in progress, the beginnings of something special are emerging.
With the door secured behind me, I step out into the cool night air, the day's urgency fading away. In its place, a quiet confidence settles in my chest.
This journey won't be easy. There will be long hours, tough decisions, and unforeseen obstacles ahead. But when doubt creeps in, I need only remember this feeling right now—the thrill of watching a vision come to life. I’ve always wanted this, and to see it coming into fruition is a life’s dream.
And all three of my men share this dream as wholly as I do—not because they care about restaurants, but that they’re diligently focused on enabling me to do what brings me joy. Together, we'll celebrate each milestone, and pour our souls into creating something extraordinary. I help them with their dreams, and they do the same for me. Because—and I've only learned this since being with the three of them—that's how true partnerships are meant to work.
The restaurant awaits, my dream brimming with promise. And though the road is long, I know with absolute certainty that we'll reach our destination. For now, I allow myself to bask in the satisfaction of a day's work well done.
Tomorrow brings new challenges, but also new opportunities.
As I walk to our car, I smile softly to myself, my mind already racing with ideas. One thing is clear—with passion and perseverance, we'll turn this empty space into something truly remarkable.
Step by step, we will get there. Together.
Chapter fifteen
Later
Aria's body fits against mine perfectly, our sweat-slicked skin sliding together with every breath. Her hair fans across my chest as she gazes up at me, her eyes glazed and lips swollen from kissing.
"You inspire me," I rasp, cupping her face in my hands. My fingers tangle in her hair as I stare into her eyes. "The way you move, the sounds you make...fuck, baby, the way you come for me. You're my muse."
My words are true, and she knows it. The way this whole restaurant venture is making her light up… it goes beyond a smile. I can see it in her eyes. If it's possible, I'd say her soul is glowing.
Her lips curl into a sultry smile, her hips rocking against mine.
The friction makes me groan, my cock already hard and aching again.
"Is that so?" Her voice is husky, filled with lust and delight. "Show me. Show me how I inspire you."
Fuck, she's going to be the death of me. I crush my mouth to hers, kissing her with a savage hunger that makes her whimper. My hands roam her body, squeezing her tits, gripping her ass, my fingers sliding through her wetness.
"The softness of your skin," I growl against her neck, nipping at the delicate skin. "The way you arch into me, so eager and willing. The way you scream my name when you come."
I suck a mark into her collarbone while thrusting two fingers inside her. She cries out, her inner walls clenching around my fingers.
"Florian," she gasps, shuddering against me. Her nails rake down my back and I hiss in pleasure, the sting heightening my arousal. I'm on fire for her, every nerve ending alight with need. Only she can inspire this raging inferno inside me, this all-consuming passion that threatens to burn me alive.
"That's it, baby." I thrust deeper, curling my fingers just so.
She screams, her body convulsing as she comes for me again. I watch her fall apart with hooded eyes, groaning at the sight. "Just like that. My perfect muse."
I withdraw my fingers slowly, watching her twitch and whimper.
She's panting, her eyes glazed over with pleasure.
I bring my fingers to my lips, tasting her essence with a satisfied groan. "You’re delicious," I growl.
Kissing along her jaw and down her neck, I suck a mark into the swell of her breast. "But I still have plans for you and your gorgeous body."