Page 123 of Racking Up Penalties
Across from me, Tristan says, “Of course it did. Wasn’t our approval enough?”
“Well, no but I do appreciate it.”
Ethan’s booming laugh fills the space, and Liam cracks a smile, his gray eyes sparkling with mirth.
The conversation flows easily among us, filled with the kind of light banter that only comes from deep familiarity. It’s moments like these when I feel the most grounded, surrounded by three guys who’ve become pillars in my chaotic life.
Ethan leans forward, the energy around him shifting like the prelude to a storm. “Guys, I have news,” he announces, his intense brown eyes locking onto mine.
My heart skips a beat. I lean in, curiosity piqued.
“Spill it, Matthews,” Liam encourages, a knowing grin tugging at his lips as if he’s already in on the secret.
Ethan’s gaze doesn’t waver from mine, and I can almost hear the drumroll in my head. “Tessa, I want to invest in your clothing line.”
The words hang in the air, heavy with implication and promise. Invest?
“Your talent is undeniable,” Ethan continues, his voice thrumming with sincerity. “And I believe in what you’re creating. There’s potential for something big here, Tessa.”
I toy with the ceramic handle of my coffee mug, my gaze darting between the eager faces surrounding me. Ethan’s offer, generous and sincere, hangs in the air like an unclaimed promise. But something within me coils tight with resistance.
“I appreciate this, Ethan, really. I don’t want your money because you feel guilty,” I say, a tremor in my voice betraying the conflict churning inside me.
Tristan leans forward, his deep blue eyes earnest and understanding. “Tess,” he begins, his voice a blend of firmness and empathy, “it’s not about handouts. It’s about taking opportunities when they come. You’re talented enough to make it regardless, but why turn away help now?”
“Look at us,” Ethan adds, leaning back in his chair, his intense brown eyes locking onto mine. “We’re in this together, Tessa. Tristan, Liam, and I—we’re your team. My investment is just that: a belief in your vision. It doesn’t take away from your talent or hard work.”
His words wrap around me, a comforting blanket woven from threads of trust and camaraderie. The three of them, each so different, yet united in their conviction. I feel a smile tugging reluctantly at my lips, even as my mind grapples with the implications of accepting such help.
“Okay, I hear you,” I concede, letting out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. “It’s just a lot to consider. I’m not saying no—I just need to… to let it sink in.”
Their nods are encouraging.
“Where do you want to build this fashion empire?” Liam asks.
I can’t help grinning. “New York is the place to be but I want to be with the three of you.”
“Then we will aim to get on New York teams,” Tristan says with conviction.
“Well you have another year here but yes.” Liam bumps shoulders with him.
“See?” Ethan chimes in, his grin infectious. “We’ve got plans, big ones, and you’re at the heart of them, Tess.”
I chuckle, shaking my head at the absurdity of how these three men anchor me to dreams I’m too scared to have alone. They see me, the real me, with all my chaos and creativity, and they don’t just accept it; they celebrate it.
“Okay, okay, guys.” My voice is stronger now, bolstered by the belief I see reflected in their eyes. “Let’s say I entertain this idea of… accepting help.” The words are foreign on my tongue, yet they taste of possibility.
Liam leans forward, elbows on the table, his blue eyes earnest. “It’s not just help, Tessa. It’s partnership, it’s love.”
I blink rapidly, fighting the prickling sensation behind my eyes. To trust so completely feels like stepping out onto a tightrope with no safety net below. Yet, here they are, my safety net, ready to catch me should I fall.
“Partnership,” I echo, rolling the concept around in my mind. It’s not a surrender of my independence, but an acceptance of strength in numbers.
“Exactly,” Tristan agrees, abandoning his coffee to reach across the table, his hand enveloping mine in a gesture that speaks louder than any pep talk. “Together, Tessa. Always together.”
I love these men. So, what’s holding me back?
“Alright,” I breathe out, the decision settling me. “Let’s do this. Together.”
