Page 18 of Love so Hot

Lawrence

Ha. Ha.

The sarcasm drips heavier than the water from the showerhead. But despite their ribbing, a hint of warmth spreads through me. These guys are my family, the ones who've seen me at my worst and still stuck around. They might drive me insane, but they're also the only ones I trust to have my back. Always.

Steam billows around me as I step out of the shower, droplets cascading from my skin to mingle with the plush carpet of the bedroom. Crisp mountain air slips through the slightly ajar window. Towel secured firmly around my waist, I pad across the room, leaving damp footprints in my wake.

Snatching up my phone, the screen lights up with another barrage of messages, each one a playful jab aimed right at my ego. Roman's latest quip catches my eye, his words dancing with that reckless glee he carries like a badge of honor.

Roman

Did the tree hugger tie you up in organic hemp ropes?

Lawrence

I wouldn't be against a little eco-Fifty Shades.

My thumb hovers over the send button before I tap it with a satisfied smirk.

Roman

Instead of the 'red room' it's the 'green room.'

I snort out a laugh.

Victor

Seriously though.

What's your game plan with the Earth Defenders?

Sebastian

Is this where we suggest environmentally friendly straws as peace offerings?

Roman, predictably, goes for the fantastical.

Roman

Maybe they're all related to Captain Planet.

You should try taking their rings away. That'll show 'em.

Lawrence

Wouldn't surprise me if they tried summoning him.

I chuckle under my breath, imagining the scene—colors of earth and fire clashing against the steel backdrop of my construction site.

Lawrence

Captain Planet's got nothing on me.

I have something far more powerful than heart-shaped rings—lawyers and contracts.

Roman

Ooh, scary. ??????

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