Page 25 of Triplet Babies for the CEO

The expansive living room boasts high, vaulted ceilings made of exposed beams, and the walls are adorned with rich, dark wood paneling that radiates warmth.

Through the large windows, I can see the breathtaking view of the valley beyond. The sun is setting, painting the sky in brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple, while the rolling hills are cloaked in a soft, golden hue.

It’s a picturesque scene that feels almost like a painting, and for a moment, I’m captivated by the beauty of it all. Overhead, pendant lights with a rustic flair hang from the beams, illuminating the space with a warm, inviting light.

The scent of something delicious wafts through the air, drawing me toward the kitchen. Dana greets me with a warm smile, her bright eyes sparkling with kindness.

“Welcome, Tasha!” she beams, her smile making the space feel even more inviting. “Brody told me to expect you. Come on in!”

As we step into the kitchen, my eyes widen at the sight of a beautifully arranged dinner spread out on the large dining room table.

I lean in closer, curiosity piqued. “Is this cream of rice and bread-wrapped steak?”

Brody chuckles from across the table, a hint of amusement dancing in his amber eyes. “Well, in a restaurant, they’d call it Beef Wellington and risotto.”

"Ah, got it. Gordon Ramsay style," I say as I eye what I imagine is a perfectly baked Beef Wellington, with its flaky golden crust glistening under the soft lights.

I don't think anyone will be yelling about it being 'fucking raw' tonight.

On the contrary, I can almost taste the buttery pastry that encases the tender beef, and the rich aroma of herbs and roasted garlic fills the air. My mouth is watering.

The risotto also looks creamy and inviting, sprinkled with vibrant green parsley that adds a pop of color.

I feel my cheeks heat with a mix of embarrassment and amusement, but as I look around, I realize no one else seems bothered by my ignorance.

Their warm smiles and genuine laughter envelop me, making me feel more at home.

It’s a far cry from my upbringing, and the warmth of this moment fills me with an intense sense of belonging I never knew I was missing.

Chapter Nine

Brody

Dana leads Tasha to her wing, and I can’t help but smile as she steps into her room.

The space is bathed in warm, natural light from the setting sun that is filtering through the large bay window, casting gentle shadows on the soft beige walls.

Tasha’s verdant eyes widen as she takes in the perfect blend of elegant, modern chic décor: a plush, cream-colored rug underfoot, a king-sized bed dressed in crisp white linens, and a statement piece of artwork featuring vibrant hues of blue and gold that brings life to the room.

She drops her bags on the polished hardwood floor and leaps onto the bed, her laughter bubbling up as she bounces slightly before melting into the luxurious mattress. The fabric is so soft, it cradles her like a cloud.

“It’s amazing! Easily the best bed I’ve ever laid on,” she exclaims, burying her face into the fluffy pillows that look like they were plucked straight from a magazine spread.

Dana smiles warmly, her eyes twinkling with motherly affection, “Brody bought everything brand new for you.”

I feel a sudden reddening of my cheeks at the admission. I don’t want her to think I spent a bunch of cash on her, but I also wasn’t going to invite her to stay with me and not have the room be perfect for her needs.

The shock on Tasha's face is obvious, her expression slowly shifting from disbelief to genuine gratitude. I can almost hear the thoughts stirring in her mind.

It’s clear that no one’s ever bought her new things as an adult. I can see the shadow of her past creeping in. She grew up in a world where second-hand was the norm.

“Wow,” she whispers, looking around as if the room might vanish if she blinks. I wish I could assure her that this isherspace now and she deserves every bit of it.

I knock on the door, and Tasha looks up. “Hey, I need to check on the animals. Want to come with me?”

We head down the hall together, and I can’t help but notice how effortlessly she fits into this world. Her smile widens, and she bounces up and down as she walks, the excitement radiating off her like sunshine breaking through rain clouds.

The moment we step outside, she’s greeted by a whirlwind of energy: puppies darting around, their tails wagging furiously in the cool evening breeze.

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