Page 43 of Rule
"Guys," I say, my voice catching their attention. "I appreciate all your support, but we can't forget that this is just the beginning. There's still so much to do, so many people depending on us."
My words seem to resonate with them, their expressions turning serious as they acknowledge the truth behind my statement.
"Scarlet's right," Max says, his voice firm. "We've taken the first step, but there's a long road ahead of us."
"Whatever it takes," Tristan adds, determination etched in every line of his face. "We're in this together."
"Absolutely," Adam agrees, raising his glass once more. "To the journey ahead!"
"May it bring us closer than ever before," Miles says.
"And may we find victory at every turn," Hugo concludes.
As we raise our glasses again, I feel a surge of hope. Despite the immense challenges that lie ahead, with these amazing men by my side and our shared passion for change, I know that we can overcome anything. Our journey may be far from over, but together; we are unstoppable.
"So," I begin, my voice steady. "Let's get down to business. We need to rebuild Origin, and it's clear that we'll face resistance from some who don't want change."
"First things first," Max says, his analytical mind already at work. "We need trustworthy allies."
"Agreed," Tristan says, his piercing gaze scanning the horizon. "We should reach out to those who've been wronged in some way by the old order. They'll have the motivation to help us."
"Good idea," Adam adds, his strong fingers tapping the table. "Turns out, I know some people in the underground network who might be willing to assist us. They're not fans of the old regime either."
"Perfect," I reply, grateful for their input. My heart swells with pride to have such capable men supporting me every step of the way. “And, of course, equal opportunities. Not just sons but daughters too.” This is a very important point to me. In fact, probablythemost important. I did all of this to quash the doll shit and stop the chauvinistic behavior of the Society.
"Next, we need to address the divisions within," Miles says, his voice thoughtful. "There are factions loyal to the different leaders, and if we want to unify everyone under your rule, Scarlet, we'll have to win them over."
"Exactly," Hugo agrees, his dark eyes filled with conviction. "Many may be hesitant to accept a woman at the helm, but we'll show them that you're more than capable of leading this new era."
"I know, but whether they like it or not, I’m the Overseer now. I laid down the gauntlet, and I won. Pretty much, end of story as far as I’m concerned," I say, daring any of them to disagree as I look around the circle; I can see the fire burning in their eyes – the same fire that fuels my own determination. We are in this fight together, and nothing can stand in our way.
“Agreed,” Max says, his lips curving up into the slow sexy smile that makes my heart pound.
"Let's start by identifying the key players in each faction," I suggest, my mind racing with ideas. "We'll approach them one by one, present our vision for the future, and win them over."
"Sounds like a plan," Max says, giving me an approving nod.
"Then it's settled," Tristan declares, his strong hand reaching out to grasp mine. "We'll rebuild the Secret Society, unite its members, and create a better world for everyone – together."
As their voices rise in agreement, the energy between us crackles like electricity, igniting a fire within my soul. With these incredible men by my side, we will face whatever challenges come our way, conquering every obstacle and emerging victorious in our quest to change the world, according to Origin.
* * *
The sun begins to dip below the horizon as we return to our home in Liverpool, bathing the streets in an ethereal golden glow. The six of us settle into the cozy living room, each claiming a seat on the plush couches or armchairs. I take a moment to appreciate everything we’ve been through the last few months and how it has all led to something good and worthwhile.
"Tonight," I say, gathering my lovers close. "We solidify our bond and remind ourselves of why we're doing this." My gaze drifts over Max's strong shoulders, Tristan's smoldering eyes, Adam's calculating expression, Miles's tender smile, and Hugo's unwavering support.
"Scarlet," Hugo murmurs, "your strength and determination inspire us all. We'll do whatever it takes to make this work."
Later as we settle in my bedroom, I yawn, everything taking its toll on me. As I drift off to sleep, I know tomorrow will bring more trials and tribulations. But with my lovers by my side, there's nothing we can't overcome. We will heal the divisions within Origin, one step at a time, and create a future where everyone has a voice and a place.
ChapterTwenty-Five
Scarlet
The moment I’ve been planning in my head for a while now is upon us as we sit in the living room, draped over each other like lions after a feed. Surrounded by the five men who have each captured a piece of my heart. Max, Tristan, Hugo, Miles, and Adam - all unique in their own ways but bound together by their love for me and our shared destiny within Origin, which brought us together.
Max, with his devilish grin and piercing blue eyes, is always up for an adventure. He's the one who encourages me to embrace my wild side, to take risks without fear. Our passionate encounters leave me breathless, craving more of his dangerous touch.
