Forever & Always (& Series Book 3)
Author: Wade, Jena
Date: 2018-05-12

Forever & Always

Jena Wade

Copyright © May 2018 by Jena Wade

All rights reserved. This copy is intended for the original purchaser of this e-book ONLY. No part of this e-book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without prior written permission from the author. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author's rights. Purchase only authorized editions.

Image/art disclaimer: Licensed material is being used for illustrative purposes only. Any person depicted in the licensed material is a model.

Cover Design by Silver Heart Design Studio www.silverheartstudio.com

Published in the United States of America

This e-book is a work of fiction. While reference might be made to actual historical events or existing locations, the names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

www.thejenawade.com

Warning

This e-book contains sexually explicit scenes and adult language and may be considered offensive to some readers. Jena Wade’s e-books are for sale to adults ONLY, as defined by the laws of the country in which you made your purchase. Please store your files wisely, where they cannot be accessed by under-aged readers.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Other Titles by Jena Wade

Jena Wade

Forever & Always

Now that they've living in their Happily Ever After, Ashten, Trent, Troy, and Jesse are ready to take the next step.

But what happens when the twins choose the same wedding date? May the best couple win…

Chapter 1

Ashten kneaded the dough harder than necessary. He stood at the island in the kitchen of the home he shared with Trent, his boyfriend of two years. Duchess, their golden retriever mix, more mix than retriever, whined at his feet, pulling him out of his thoughts.

He set the dough aside and looked at the clock. Six fifteen. “Shit. Sorry, girl. Didn’t realize how late it was.” He wiped his hands on a towel, then looked around the kitchen. Even if he put the bread in now it wouldn’t be ready for dinner. He sighed. “C’mon girl.”

Duchess trailed after him and he let her out the back door. Distantly, he heard Trent pulling into the garage.

Ashten returned to the kitchen. Dinner was nothing special; Ashten had ordered it from the hotel kitchen before he’d left for the day. Since he’d taken over more of the event coordinating responsibilities at the hotel, he and Trent had takeout more and more often. Ironic, really, since Trent’s main motivation for hiring Ashten in the first place had been to avoid eating out all the time.

A lot had changed in the three years he’d been working with Trent. Especially since he’d first started working for Trent.

“Hey, babe, smells good.” Trent set his briefcase on the counter and leaned to give Ashten a kiss on the cheek.

Ashten smiled. He’d never get over that feeling of contentedness he felt in Trent’s arms. “It’s the dinner special tonight at the hotel, I didn’t make it.”

“What’s all this?” Trent loosened his tie, then gestured to the mess of flour and ingredients on the island of the kitchen. The island they’d had installed specifically for Ashten. Trent had wanted Ashten to feel at home when he’d first moved in, so he’d given Ashten free rein on personalizing a few rooms. Of course, Ashten had picked the kitchen. The redecoration had turned into more of a mini-remodel.

“I was going to make some bread. But it won’t be ready for tonight.”

Trent nodded. “I’m going to go change. Want to eat outside?”

“Sure.”

Ashten took their plates to the patio and Trent joined soon after.

Duchess sat at their feet, alternating between the two. She begged for scraps with a small whine, even though she wasn’t allowed people food. Trent insisted that she would grow out of it. It had been nearly two and half years, and the habit stuck.

They discussed work, a few projects they were working on and the schedules for the upcoming week. It was a normal discussion; not much different than the ones they’d had previous nights. But Ashten couldn’t shake the notion that something was off. Trent was hiding something.

Trust was strong between them. He knew Trent would never cheat on him, and their attraction burned as bright as ever. But something was… off.

Inside the kitchen, Ashten filled the sink, setting their dirty dishes into the soapy water.

Trent’s hands landed on his shoulders, then he caressed his way down to Ashten’s hips. Ashten shivered, his hair standing on end at the sensation.

“I missed you all day,” Trent said.

Ashten smiled. “I saw you at ten this morning.”

Trent moaned. “Yeah, but we weren’t alone. All I could think about was this.” Trent moved his hand to Ashten’s dick, which had perked up the minute Trent had laid a hand on him.

Ashten spun around and wrapped his arms around Trent’s neck. “Really?”

“Really. Really.”

Their lips met. Ashten’s eyes slid closed and he melted against Trent. Nothing in the world compared to this. He pulled Trent tighter against him until their chests, groins, and thighs all met and molded together. Ashten trailed his fingers to the hem of Trent’s T-shirt and tugged. Skin. They need to be naked together.

They parted briefly, and pulled off their shirts. Trent tried to restart their kiss, but Ashen dodged it. He had other things on his mind.

He dropped to his knees on the tile floor, his hands already tugging Trent’s track pants down to his ankles. Trent’s cock stood at attention, thick and leaking. He’d skipped out on underwear. Ashten nearly creamed his jeans just thinking about it.

They’d been together long enough that he knew what Trent liked, so he could make this quick, if he wanted to. But he wanted to draw it out.

He stuck out his tongue, licking up Trent’s shaft slowly, tracing the veins. Trent rocked forward, but with each inch he moved one way, Ashten moved the other.

“Babe.” Trent’s voice strained, and Ashten looked up. Trent’s chin rested on his chest, his hands gripped the edge of the counter, his eyes pinched closed.

Delicious torture.

Ashten grinned. He opened his mouth, and took Trent all in, licking, sucking him. His cheeks hollowing as he pulled back.

“Good God.” Trent tensed.

Maybe this wouldn’t be as drawn out as he’d hoped.

Ashten swallowed, the salty pre-come tasted like ambrosia on his tongue. Trent’s length grew harder in his mouth.

“I’m gonna—“ Trent jerked his hips forward, but Ashten was ready. He opened his throat and accepted all that Trent had to give. He drank down shot after shot of his wonderful man.

When the last drops of cum were released from Trent’s cock, Ashten leaned back, his dick throbbing, but he ignored it. Trent sank to the floor, his knees unable to hold him up any longer.

They both rested against the kitchen cupboards.

“We need a curtain for the window above the sink,” Trent said.

“What?”

“At one point I opened my eyes and looked out the window and saw our neighbor. She waved, pretty sure she knew what was happening in here.”

Ashten laughed, his head banging against the cupboard, which only made him laugh harder. Trent joined in.

“You’re probably right.”

Trent smiled and Ashten nearly melted again. How could he be this lucky? “Is it too early to go to bed?” Trent asked.

Ashten shrugged. “Depends. Are we going to sleep or are we just going to the bedroom?”

Trent winked, then jumped to his feet. “Come find out.”

Ashten didn’t hesitate, he followed his man.

***

Ashten woke before his alarm went off. Trent wasn’t much of a morning person, and Ashten preferred to run before there was any traffic on the roads. It was Saturday, and if he got his run done before Trent woke up they could spend the rest of the day together.

He pulled Trent’s arm off him and inched his way out of the bed, trying not to disturb his lover. Trent moaned and curled his arm around Ashten’s pillow.

“Goin’ runnin’?” Trent mumbled.

“Yeah, I’ll be back in an hour.”

“’Kay. Love you.”

Ashten smiled. He’d never get over hearing those words from Trent. “Love you, too.”

Ashten padded through the house quietly. Duchess… not so much. She bounced and hopped and ran between Ashten and the front door a half dozen times. Ashten grabbed his shoes and sat on the bench next to the door.

He picked up the left shoe, loosened the laces and was about to slip it onto his foot, when something slid from the toe to the heel of it.

A box.

A small, square, velvet box.

Ashten’s heart raced. He stilled for a moment. Duchess whined at the door, and he shushed her, never looking away from the box.

“Open it.”

He jumped at the sound of Trent’s voice. Finally, he looked away from the box. Trent stood, leaning against the wall wearing nothing but a pair of sleep pants.

“What—”

Trent smiled, his sleep-tousled hair making him look ten years younger. “C’mon. Open it.”

Ashten opened it and found a pair of matching white gold bands.

“We can get different ones if you want. I wasn’t sure what to get. I think I spent a week searching for something that seemed right.”

Ashten’s jaw dropped, but no words came out. He looked to Trent, shock rippled through him. Had he woken up yet? Was this real?

“Ashten.” Trent stepped toward him and knelt on the floor, taking Ashten’s hands in his. “Will you say something?”

“Yes?”

Trent half-smiled. “Yes to the question, or yes you’ll say something?”

“What was the question?” Ashten knew, of course. But he wanted to hear the words. It wouldn’t be real until he heard the words.

“Ashten, will you marry me?” Trent’s voice trembled.

Ashten launched into his arms. “Yes. Of course, yes.”

Trent let out a long sigh and wrapped his arms around Ashten. “Thank God. You scared me.”

Laughter bubbled out of Ashten, along with a few tears of joy. “I didn’t expect this.”

Trent looked in Ashten’s eyes. “I love you. Been wanting to do this for a while, but everything’s been a little crazy managing the hotel and the bed and breakfast. I decided to just go for it.”

“I’m glad you did.” Ashten kissed him and the two sank to the floor wrapped in each other’s arms.

***

Jesse had Detective Troy Evans in sight. The fight had been going on for a while now, and they’d enjoyed themselves, but it was time to show Troy who was boss around here.

When Jesse’d found the toy Nerf guns in an old box at his dad’s house, he couldn’t let the opportunity to have a little fun slip through his fingers. He’d known when Troy would arrive home, so he’d left a gun outside for him, just to make the fight fair, then he’d hidden in the kitchen waiting for Troy to come inside.

Now Troy hid behind the recliner.  Strategically, it was a good location, but Jesse had the better aim and also the better gun. He aimed and fired round after round of the tiny foam bullets at Troy.

“Damn it!” Troy retaliated with his own stream of ammo at Jesse. “You cheated.”

“Aw, c’mon. I’m just better.” Jesse continued to fire until his gun emptied.

Troy held up his arm to shield his face from Jesse’s onslaught. He stomped forward, forcing Jesse to retreat until he hit the couch and fell back. Troy pounced, pinning him down.

“Uncle. Uncle,” Jesse cried as Troy tickled him until he writhed beneath Troy’s weight.

“No way, I’m not letting you off that easy.”

Duke barked and pranced around them, getting excited with all the commotion.

Troy confiscated Jesse’s toy gun and tossed it to the floor. “Where did you find these anyway?”

“Pop had them in a box in my old room.”

“No kidding? I don’t think I ever had one.” Troy examined the plastic toy.

“Really?” Sadness pinged in Jesse’s heart for Troy as a child who’d been tossed around various foster families, never having the regular childhood experiences. “Ashten, Bryce and I used to play all the time. I always won.”

“Yeah? Well, I think I just stole your title. Didn’t anyone ever tell you not to mess with the police?”

Jesse struggled against Troy’s hold. Troy only held him tighter.

“Nope. You’re mine.”

“Oh? And what did you have in mind, Detective?”

Jesse’s cock thickened, imagining what was coming next. Had he known that an impromptu Nerf gun fight would end up like this he would have bought out an entire store and done this months ago. Not that they really needed an excuse to get frisky in the living room. It was a common occurrence.

Troy held Jesse’s wrists together above his head with one hand. He kissed Jesse. Softly, slowly at first. Jesse took it a step farther, devouring Troy with his tongue, rocking his hips forward.

The more Jesse struggled, the more Troy held tight. “You aren’t getting away.”

Jesse didn’t want to, but Troy didn’t need to know that.

Troy used his free hand to reach into Jesse’s track pants. It didn’t take long to find what he was looking for and Jesse moaned once Troy wrapped a hand around his dick. “Please, can I—" Jesse tried to pull his hands away and Troy laughed.

“Since you said ‘please.’”

Once his hands were free, Jesse went for the fly of Troy’s jeans. He fumbled a bit and Troy laughed. “Is this your first time?”

Jesse looked up and raised a brow, “You complaining about my technique?”

Troy shook his head. “Not at all.”

Finally, Jesse had Troy’s jeans open, and Troy’s dick strained against the fabric of his briefs. Jesse slipped his hand inside, grasping the shaft. “Better?”

Troy groaned. “Better.”

Together they pumped and jacked each other, bringing both of them to the height of pleasure. They kissed and groped, rubbing against each other. Their Nerf war forgotten.

“So close, baby.” Troy nipped just below Jesse’s ear.

“Me too.”  Jesse rested his forehead against Troy’s. “Together?”

Troy nodded, his gaze never leaving Jesse’s. Arousal hot and heavy in his eyes. “Together.”

They doubled their efforts, stroking faster, harder until they both moaned and spurted come at the same time.

Troy collapsed next to Jesse on the couch. “Well, I never expected an ambush like that when I came home from work.”

Jesse rested his head against the cushion. “You should be prepared for anything, Detective.”

Troy laughed. “After two years, I thought I was prepared for anything when it came to you.”

“I still have some tricks up my sleeve.”

Troy raised a brow, and looked at Jesse sideways. “Oh, yeah?”

Now or never. The thought crossed his mind a million times in the past few months, it was time to see if it had occurred to Troy also. “We should get married.”

That wasn’t so hard. For some reason he’d expected the words to come out shaky and stuttered. But they were clear, as was the look of disbelief on Troy’s face.

“Are you serious?”

“As a heart attack.”

Troy shifted like he was going to get up, then he settled back against the couch. “C’mon Jesse.”

Jesse scooched closer, taking Troy’s hand in his. “I’m serious. I want to get married. I know we’ve never talked about it, but I know you. It’s crossed your mind.”

“Well, yeah—“

“Then let’s do it. The quicker we get married, the quicker we can become foster parents.” Way to go, Jesse. Really scare ‘em.

That got Troy’s attention. He stared hard at Jesse, in what Jesse had come to think of as his detective face.

“You really want that?” His tone told Jesse he expected a prompt response. And damn if his detective voice didn’t work as well on Jesse as it did on the suspects in the interrogation rooms.

“With you, I do. You’ve told me about growing up in the system. Wouldn’t it be great if we could make a difference for some of those kids?”

“That’s a big commitment, Jesse. Not just to me.”

“Well, I’m not saying we should apply tomorrow, just in the future.” He squeezed Troy’s hand. “You going to say ‘yes’ or what?”

“Yes.”

Excitement coursed through him, he almost catapulted off the couch. Instead, he launched himself into Troy’s arms. “Yeah? For real?”

Troy laughed. “Yeah. Did you really expect me to say no?”

Jesse kissed him quickly and firmly. “I wasn’t sure. I didn’t even know I was going to ask to be honest.”

Troy wrapped his arms around Jesse. “I love you and I can’t wait to start this next journey together.”

Jesse melted in his arms. “I love you, too.”

Chapter Two

Ashten bounced around the kitchen, opening cupboard after cupboard, pulling out all the ingredients he would need to make breakfast for himself, Trent, Troy and, his twin, Jesse.

Engaged. He repeated the word over and over in his head, hardly believing it. It seemed like yesterday that he’d showed up here for his first day of work. He sighed. If only he’d known then, what he knew now.

Trent came into the room whistling. He paused for a moment to kiss Ashten on the cheek. “Can I help with anything?”

“No, I got it covered.”

Trent picked up the iPad off the counter. He snorted. “You aren’t wasting much time are you?” The browser was displaying a page providing a month by month checklist for wedding planning.

Ashten’s cheeks heated. “It doesn’t hurt to be prepared.”

“Have you thought a lot about what kind of wedding you want?”

“Not really.” Ashten busied himself with whipping up pancake batter. He glanced at Trent from beneath his lashes. “Have you?”

Trent shrugged. “Nope. Pretty silly of us, considering how many weddings we’ve helped facilitate at the hotel and the bed and breakfast. Not to mention all of the weddings we’ve attended in the past year.”

“No kidding. It’s not like we ever had time to stop and enjoy the ones at the hotel. They were all so hectic.”

“Well, we do have a grand hotel, an assortment of décor options, and million other resources at our disposal for this venture.” Trent winked.

True. They did have it pretty easy as far as options for the location. Not to mention all of the people they knew within the billion-dollar industry.

The whole task of planning for themselves just seemed… daunting. But he didn’t want to tell Trent that. “I’ve honestly never thought about getting married. I don’t really know what I want. I mean, I want to spend my life with you, obviously, but I don’t know what I want for the ceremony and reception and all that stuff.”

Trent swiped his finger across the tablet screen. “I never thought about it either. Until now. I just know I want to marry you, to be with you, always.”

“I want that, too.” Ashten reached out and gave Trent a quick kiss. “We’ll figure out the rest. We have time.”

Trent pointed at the screen displaying a blog titled “Step by Step Guide to a Perfect Wedding.” “Apparently, the first thing we have to do it figure out a date. Did you have one in mind?”

That was easy. "July thirtieth.”

“Why that day?”

Ashten poured a ladle of batter onto the warmed griddle. “Because we don’t have anything booked at the hotel for that day, yet.”

“Efficient as always.” Trent smiled and Ashten returned it.

“I invited Troy and Jesse over. I figured we could tell them the good news. They should be here in about fifteen minutes.”

“No time for a quickie then, huh?”

Ashten rolled his eyes. “Not if you actually want to have something edible for breakfast.”

Trent let out a long, exaggerated sigh. “I suppose. But you owe me.”

Ashten winked. “It’s a promise.”

***

Jesse sat in the passenger seat of Troy’s truck as they navigated to Ashten and Trent’s home for breakfast. It was a typical Sunday for them, really. Running in the morning with Duke, then a lazy day around the house until they went to Pop’s for dinner.

It wasn’t uncommon for them to have breakfast with Trent and Ashten, only today felt different because they had exciting news to share.

“I assume we’re telling your brother about the engagement?” Troy asked.

“Of course.”

“Have you given any thought to what sort of wedding you want or are we going for a long engagement until we finally just elope to Vegas?”

Jesse laughed. “Honesty, I’ve thought about it a lot. Pretty much ever since Bryce got married I’ve thought about what I would want if I ever tied the knot.”

“Oh? Do tell.”

Jesse turned in his seat until he faced Troy. “I want a big wedding. Lots of people. Everyone I’ve ever met and whoever they want to bring along. Short ceremony, but meaningful. Then a big party. Lots of food, and dancing all night long. Ashten will be my best man, of course. And you and I should be in matching tuxes. And none of this ‘not seeing each other before the ceremony’ bullshit.”

“That’s quite specific.” Trent raised a brow as he shot a quick glance at Jesse before turning back to the road.

Jesse shrugged. “Like I said, I’ve thought about it a lot. Even more so after I met you. Have you thought about it?”

“Yes.”

Jesse couldn’t help his surprise. “Really? I didn’t think that was something you would want.”

“Just because I was in the closet when we got together didn’t mean I didn’t think about being out of it.” He ran a hand through his hair, then returned it to the steering wheel. “When I was living with the Matthison’s, they renewed their vows. The ceremony was gorgeous. A lot of their former foster kids came with their families. And we had a big party afterward in the backyard. A catering company came out and put up a dance floor and a big tent. I just remember thinking that this is what I wanted. I wanted to have a day like that with someone I love, and I wanted a lot of people there to witness it.”

Jesse smiled. “I guess we’re on the same page then. That sounds like exactly what I want.”

Troy reached over and grabbed Jesse hand. “Can we have a strawberry cake?”

“I suppose. Can Duke play a part also?”

Troy grinned. “I suppose.” He pulled the truck into the driveway, put it in park, and killed the engine. “Since you seem to have this all figured out, do you have a date in mind?”

That was easy. “July thirtieth. I may have already called Trent’s hotel also, they have a spot open.”

Troy shook his head and laughed. “Of course you did. Was that before or after you proposed?”

Jesse winked. “I don’t think we need to get caught up on small details like that, babe.”

***

Ashten checked the meal he’d laid out on the island one last time as Troy’s truck pulled into the driveway.

Just in time.

His skin crawled with excitement and he couldn’t keep still. Jesse would be the first person he told about him and Trent. Seemed fitting, since Jesse was the first person he told about most things, besides Trent.

“Honey, I’m home!” Jesse didn’t bother knocking. He never did. Even though he had walked in on Trent and Ashten in a compromising position more than once.

“In here,” Ashten called from the kitchen.

Jesse walked in with Troy trailing behind him. “Where else would you be?”

Ashten rolled his eyes and enveloped Jesse into a quick hug. He nodded at Troy, knowing that he wasn’t overly affectionate with anyone other than Jesse.

Trent came in, freshly showered, wearing a pair of jeans and a white T-shirt. “Hey guys.”

Jesse didn’t waste any time. He grabbed a plate from the counter and piled on pancakes, sausage links, and eggs. “This looks great, Ashy.”

“Save some for the rest of us.” Troy said.

Taking the cue from Jesse, the other three men filled their plates as well and sat down at the dining room table. Duchess lay within sight so she could catch anything that fell to the floor.

Ashten didn’t touch his food. He waited for the perfect opportunity to share their news. He caught Trent’s eye from across the table and he smiled. Now. Now was a good time.

“We’re getting married.”

Ashten sat stunned. He’d been thinking the words, but hadn’t said them. He looked at his brother. “What?”

“Troy and I are getting married.”

The excitement hit twofold now. “We’re getting married!”

“Wait, what?”

Troy and Trent exchanged looks, then turned back to the twins.

“Trent proposed. I said yes.”

Jesse glanced at Trent then back to Ashten. He grinned. “Congratulations.”

“What are the odds that we’d get engaged on the same day?” Ashten asked.

“After knowing you two for this long, I’m not surprised by anything.” Troy lifted his glass of orange juice to his lips and took a sip.

They all laughed.

“Have you made any plans yet?” Ashten asked, his meal entirely forgotten.

“Jesse’s got it all worked out. Big wedding. Even bigger party.” Troy glanced at Jesse, his eyes full of love, and it made Ashten glad knowing his brother had found someone that made him happy. Like how Trent made Ashten feel.

“Yeah, it’s going to be awesome. We’ll have it at the hotel, of course, and it’s going to be huge. We’re going to invite everyone we’ve ever met.”

Trent snorted. “You guys are way ahead of us then, all we could decide on was a date.”

“Really? I’m surprised you don’t have it planned to the very minute detail, Ashy.”

Ashten shrugged. “Never really thought about it. The hotel only had one opening though, so the date was easy. Mark July thirtieth down on your calendar. I just might pick you as my best man.” He grinned, but it faded when he caught the look on Jesses’ face. It was completely devoid of humor.

Jesse and Troy both stopped. Jesse dropped his fork to his plate with a clank. “What day?”

Ashten narrowed his eyes. “July thirtieth.”

“That’s the day we’re going to get married.”

“No way.” Ashten laughed, the excitement ebbed away and now the nerves came back. Jesse looked at him, his eyes seeming to search for something.

“Well, this is awkward.” Troy said.

“I’m sure we can work it out. I mean, we can see what we can do at the hotel, maybe we can shuffle something around and you two can get married there in August,” Ashten said.

“Yeah, or you know, you guys can re-schedule, too. I mean, you own the place right, Trent?”

Trent looked to Ashten, his face communicating confusion at what to say next. “Sure.”

Ashten jumped in. “To be fair, July thirtieth worked better for us because of a few other work obligations we have. So, I don’t know if we could reschedule.” It was ridiculous. It’s not like they had set anything in stone yet. But the way Jesse had assumed he and Troy came first rubbed Ashten the wrong way.

Troy opened his mouth to say something, but Jesse stopped him. “C’mon Ashten. It’s just a date.”

“You’re right, it’s just a date. So, why does it matter if you have to pick another one?”

“Why do I have to change my plans? You guys don’t even know what you want. Maybe you should wait until you have a better idea, then get married.”

“Maybe we should talk about this another time.” Trent said.

Ashten and Jesse continued like Trent hadn’t even spoken.

“Trent and I know we want to get married on July thirtieth. The date works with our schedules.”

Jesse rolled his eyes. “Oh, I’m sorry, I guess I didn’t realize how busy you were being a personal chef to your boyfriend.”

Ashten’s jaw dropped. He had no words. Sure, his original job had been as Trent’s personal chef, but that wasn’t how it was now and it hadn’t been that way since he and Trent started dating. Ashten ran the hotel just as much as Trent did.

“Jesse.” Troy’s voice was soothing, like he was trying to calm a hostage situation.

“No, that’s quite all right.” Ashten narrowed his eyes, two could play this game. If his bitchy brother wanted to be a dick, so be it. “Did you check the cost for the hotel? You’ll have to start saving now, if you want to afford it.”

Jesse’s jaw tightened. “I guess I can’t count on a discount from my baby brother.”

“Not likely.”

“Ashten.” Trent put his hand on Ashten’s knee.

“Guess those are reserved for employees that are fucking the boss,” Jesse said.

“All right, you two this has gone far enough.” Trent dropped his coffee mug on the table, liquid sloshing out of the top.

“I agree. Can we eat in peace?” Troy asked.

Ashten shoved his plate forward. “I’m not hungry.”

Jesse did the same. “Me neither. Let’s get out of here, Troy.”

“But—“ Troy started, but Jesse silenced him with a look.

Troy gave Ashten and Trent a pained smile. “Thanks for breakfast.” He picked up a pancake off the stack as he stood.

He and Jesse left.

Once Ashten heard the door shut, he let out a long sigh. “God. Can you believe him?”

Trent held up his hands in defeat. “I – I don’t know what to do here. I’ve never seen you and Jesse fight like that.”

“He was being ridiculous; don’t you think?”

Trent grimaced, his shoulder’s tensing. “He had a point about them knowing what they want, whereas you and I don’t have a clear idea. It wouldn’t hurt for us to wait.”

“That isn’t the point.” Ashten glared. Why isn’t Trent taking my side?

Before Trent could continue, Ashten’s phone rang. He looked at it. “It’s my dad.” He shot Trent an apologetic look. “Hi Dad,” he said as he answered.

“Ashy. Are you planning on coming over for dinner tonight?”

Ashten bit his lip. Normally, he and Trent would attend Sunday dinner at his dad’s. But today might not be the best day. He really didn’t want to argue with his brother anymore, and he didn’t feel like announcing his engagement either.

“I’m not sure.”

“I’d really like for you and Trent to be there. I have something I need to discuss.”

Damn it. He sounded serious. Ashten pinched the bridge of his nose. This was going to be a long day. “Okay. We’ll be there.”

Trent raised his brow as Ashten set the phone down on the table.

“Don’t say anything.”

***

Chapter Three

“You promise to be civil to your brother tonight?” Troy tugged Jesse’s arm and pulled him to a stop just outside Jesse’s dad’s house. Bryce, Susie and their little one, as well as Trent and Ashten were already inside.

Jesse rolled his eyes. “It’s not like this is the first time Ashten and I have fought.”

“It’s the first time I’ve witnessed it.”

Jesse tried to pull away, but Troy held him tight, his eyes locking with Jesse’s. “What was that all about this morning? Is it really that big of a deal if we don’t get married on the thirtieth?”

“That’s not the point.” Jesse sighed. “I’m just… I…” He looked away.

“What?”

“I didn’t expect to have to share this particular life event with my brother. I mean, we’re twins and all, and I love him, but Christ, we don’t always have to do everything together. What are the freaking odds that we would get engaged on the same day and want to get married on the same day? We might as well have a double wedding with matching fucking tuxes.”

Troy chuckled.

“It’s not funny.”

“It’s a little funny. You didn’t want your brother stealing your thunder. I get it.”

Jesse let out an exasperated breath. “You make me sound like a diva.” This time he did pull from Troy’s grasp.

“If the glass slipper fits.”

Jesse chose to ignore that comment. Instead he braced himself for whatever would be transpiring throughout dinner. He had no idea why it was so important to his dad that all of his kids be here tonight, but he came anyway.

“Let’s not talk about this anymore. Dad doesn’t need to know about anything just yet.”

“You don’t want to tell him we’re getting married?”

Jesse desperately wanted to tell his family He wanted to take a fucking ad out in the Sunday paper, but after this morning’s events, it wasn’t a good idea. He shook his head, then entered the house. Troy followed behind him.

Inside everyone stood in the kitchen chatting away. Jesse and Troy smiled and said hello. Jesse avoided Ashten’s gaze and hoped his dad didn’t notice. If he did, he didn’t comment.

“Now that everyone’s here, we can sit down.”

“You going to tell us what you wanted us all here for, Pop?” Jesse asked with a smile. Ever the family jokester, smoothing things over with a smile and a laugh.

“Is it a crime that I wanted my whole family together for dinner?”

They all took their places around the table. Jesse sitting on the opposite corner from Ashten. Their dad at the head of the table with Bryce, Susie and little baby Hayley to his right.

“This looks great, Pop.” Ashten said.

The table was covered with a large platter with a honey-glazed ham, corn casserole, caesar salad and a whole lot more. It looked like Christmas dinner.

Jesse took a sip of water. His appetite hadn’t returned after this morning’s breakfast. He caught Ashten’s eye. Ashten stared back at him with a hopeful look that Jesse couldn’t quite return. Too soon, the wound still too raw. Tomorrow. They could discuss it tomorrow. That would give them both a chance to think.

“I meant to ask this morning, but I didn’t get a chance, how’s that robbery case you were working on coming along, Troy?” Trent asked.

“Just fine. We made an arrest on Friday. It was in the paper this morning, I think.”

“That’s great. Congratulations.”

“Thanks.”

“Did you guys have one of your twin breakfasts and not invite me again?” Bryce asked.

Jesse stiffened and out of the corner of his eye, he saw Ashten do the same.

“We were going to have breakfast, but Jesse and Troy had to leave early,” Ashten said.

“And what, just left the food you made?” Pop’s gaze bounced between Ashten and Jesse. He never did miss much.

Troy and Trent both held back smiles.

“You boys want to talk about what’s going on?” Pop asked.

“Nope.” They both spoke at the same time.

“Why don’t you go ahead and tell us why we’re all here, Pop,” Jesse suggested.

There was a short silence. Jesse didn’t expect his dad to actually listen to him, so he was completely unprepared for the announcement when it happened.

“I’ve met someone.”

Four sets of silverware clanged against the plates as they were dropped in midair. Everyone stared at Pop, except for Hayley, she remained oblivious and played with her plastic baby keys joyously.

“That’s great.” Ashten said and he sounded sincere.

Of course it was great. It had been nearly twelve years since their mother passed away. It was about time he put himself out there.

“Hot damn, Pop. When do we get to meet the lucky lady?” Jesse beamed, happiness for his dad radiated through him.

“You don’t.”

His smile slipped, taking his giddiness with it. “Why not? We promise to behave.”

“Yeah, it’s not like we’d do anything to embarrass you,” Ashten said.

Jesse grinned at Ashten. Even in the midst of an argument, his brother always had his back.

“There isn’t a ‘her’”

“I don’t get it.” Jesse brow furrowed as he worked through what his father was saying. He looked to Ashten for guidance, but he seemed just as perplexed.

He turned to Troy who wouldn’t meet his eyes, then to Bryce who did the same.

“What the hell’s going on?” Ashten asked.

Pop took a deep breath. “Really? I have to spell this out for you two?”

“He’s dating a man, you idiots.” Bryce said.

Jesse sat back, his mouth hung open but for the life of him he couldn’t close it. He slowly turned from staring at his father to gaping at his brother. He might as well have been looking in a mirror. Ashten’s face matched his.

“When the fuck were you going to tell us?” Ashten broke the silence.

All at once, everyone spoke. Trent calmly telling Ashten to chill out. Troy asking Jesse if everything was all right. Bryce and Susie both yelling at Ashten for swearing. Jesse just stared. He couldn’t focus his eyes anywhere in particular. Everything just sort of swirled around him.

It shouldn’t be a big deal. Pop was going to find someone sooner or later and Jesse knew more than anyone else that sexuality wasn’t black and white. Gay or straight.

But he hadn’t been prepared for this. Was he prepared for his dad to be dating anyone?

That was silly. Jesse was a grown man. Pop was in his sixties, he had been alone for twelve years, he deserved to find someone.

Jesse couldn’t explain his apprehension.

“How long?” Was all he could spit out.

“A few months.” Thom spoke quietly. The reaction from the twins just as unsettling to him as it was to them.

“And you never told us?” Ashten spoke the question faster than Jesse could form the words.

“I wasn’t going to introduce you to anyone until I knew it was serious.”

“Where did you meet him?” Oh god. Did Pop go to a gay bar? No, Jesse couldn’t imagine that. Didn’t want to imagine that.

“I belong to a Parents of LGBT Youth support group.”

“Oh for fucks’ sake.” Ashten cursed again.

This time Bryce and Susie just glared. Ashten at least looked apologetic.

Jesse’s heart sank. “You’re in a support group because of Ashy and I?” Why did Pop need a support group?

“Maybe we should all –“ Trent started.

“No. We aren’t calming down or taking a break or whatever. I want to hear what Pop has to say.” Jesse said, “Why do you belong to a support group, Pop? Do you have an issue—“

“No. I—Damn it. This is coming out all wrong.” Pop ran a hand through his grey hair.

“Thom.”

Everyone at the table whirled around to find a man standing in the doorway. He looked to be about Pop’s age, though he was more bald than grey. He wore a pair of jeans and button down blue shirt. His shoulders held tension and he looked ready to bolt out of the room at any moment. But he stood in the doorway, his eyes searching Thom’s face for something.

“It’s fine, Dale. Everything’s fine.” Thom turned to face his children. His eyes held Jesse’s gaze, then he turned to Ashten. They both understood his warning. Be nice. “This is Dale. The man I was trying to tell you about.”

“I still don’t get why you need a support group, Pop. I just –“

“Let it go, Jesse.” Troy picked up Jesse’s hand and squeezed it. “We can talk about it another time.”

“I think we can talk about it now.” Ashten said.

Finally, Jesse and Ashten could agree on something.

Dale stood behind Thom, placing his hand on his shoulder. Thom placed his hand over Dale’s. The moment was too sweet for words and any apprehension Jesse had about just finding out his Dad was bisexual flew out the window. Happiness trumped all. And Jesse could see his dad was happy. Ashten saw it too, apparently, because the tension left his expression as well.

“I visited the support group shortly after Ashten came out.”

“What?” Ashten said.

“Hush and let me finish.” Thom took a deep breath. “I wanted to make sure I was there for you and your brothers every way I could be. I didn’t want to say or do the wrong thing and I needed to talk with parents who had been through it before. Dale was there. We hit it off. We had a connection that I couldn’t really explain and at the time I was still grieving for your mother so I just chalked it up to… I don’t even know. Two years ago when Jesse came out, I went back to the support group. I was concerned that I had done something wrong. I didn’t understand why you weren’t comfortable coming out sooner.  I just wanted to talk with parents who understood.”

“You didn’t do anything wrong Pop. I kept it to myself because that’s what worked for me at the time. It was nothing you did,” Jesse said.

“I know that. Now. But I wanted to discuss it with the group. Anyway, Dale runs the group now. And, well, we started spending a lot of time together. And… I don’t think we have to go into much more detail.”

“Please, no. I get it.” Ashten said.

“Wait. Time out. Have you always been attracted to men?” Jesse asked.

“No. Just Dale. Never occurred to me until I met him.” Thom let out a long sigh and rubbed his hand over his forehead. “Jesse, Ashten, I expected the two of you to understand this better than anyone else. Bryce didn’t even have this many questions when he found out.”

An unexplainable annoyance overtook Jesse. “Why did he get to find out before us?”

“Yeah!” Ashten chimed in.

“That was an accident.” Thom’s voice trailed off and his cheeks pinked with embarrassment. Bryce lowered his gaze, staring intently on his empty dinner plate.

Ew. Jesse didn’t want to imagine what sort of accident that had been.

Ashten took a deep breath and put on a smile. “It’s very nice to meet you Dale. This has taken us a bit by surprise.”

“Ditto,” Jesse said.

His thoughts swirled around in his head. He didn’t care who his dad slept with, as long as he was happy. But damn. How could his dad keep this from them for so long? Why did you keep it from everyone for so long?

It would take some time to get used to, that was for sure. God, it’s been a long day. Exhaustion settled in and he had the urge to lay his head down on the table and close his eyes.

Troy squeezed his leg just above the knee. Jesse smiled at him.

Jesse brought himself back to the conversation, catching up on the discussion. Apparently someone had asked Dale what he did for a living because he was talking about teaching at a community college and writing for a local paper.

Since the tension had subsided, dinner was served and the conversation returned to normal. Jesse didn’t eat much. Nothing sounded good. He snuck a glance or two at Ashten, wondering how he felt about everything that had been revealed.

One thing was for sure, Dale was a nice guy. He was funny, he made Pop smile and they obviously had many of the same interests.  He fit in with the family like he belonged.

By the end of the evening, Jesse couldn’t even remember the issue he’d had with the whole situation to begin with.

His and Troy’s announcement could wait until another day. Trent and Ashten must have made the same decision, since they didn’t announce anything either.

He would have to talk to his brother. They couldn’t stay pissed off forever, besides he needed to know how Ashten felt about Pop’s revelations.

Tomorrow. He would call tomorrow.

In the meantime, he would give this Dale guy the third degree. Make sure he really was good enough for his pop.

Chapter Four

“I have no idea what the fuck just happened.” Ashten sat at the edge of the pool, his feet soaking in the water up to his calves. The patio lights lit up the back yard in a dim glow.

Trent sat next to him. Both of them enjoying the evening air after returning from the eventful dinner with Ashten’s family.

“Yeah. It was… I don’t know what that was,” Trent said.

“Did you ever get that vibe from my pops? I mean, you knew him before you met me, did you ever think he was…”

Trent shook his head, then shrugged. “I didn’t really think about it.”

“Me neither.”

“Dale seems very nice.”

Ashten shot Trent a sideways look, then laughed. “Yeah. Poor guy probably didn’t realize what he was getting into.”

“Well, you and Jesse could have made it a little easier on him. I mean, it should’ve been pretty simple for your dad to introduce his boyfriend to his two sons who are in relationships with men.”

Ashten sighed. They could—should—have handled that better. “I think he took us a little off guard.”

“Ya think?”

“I’ll call him tomorrow and apologize. We can invite him and Dale to dinner at the hotel or here.” Ashten covered his face with his hands. “Now that I think about it, I feel pretty terrible about how we reacted. Poor Dale. And we didn’t even get to share our news.”

“Another day.”

They were quiet for a moment. Both staring at the water in the pool, gently kicking their feet in the cool water.

“I don’t know why I let Jesse get to me this morning,” Ashten said.

Trent kissed Ashten’s forehead. “Because he’s your brother, and that’s what he’s there for: to get on your nerves.”

“I know. But he was right, it does make sense for them to get the day since they have solid plans. We don’t know what we want yet.”

“Actually, I’ve been thinking about that a lot today.”

Ashten sat back, facing Trent. “You have?”

Trent pulled his feet from the pool and sat cross-legged facing Ashten. “Look, we both orchestrated a million weddings at the hotel. We’ve pretty much seen and done it all. Hell, I’ve seen you in every style tux there is.” He lifted Ashten’s chin until they were gazing into each other’s eyes. “But I’ve never seen you on a beach, wearing khaki shorts and a flower lei. What if we didn’t go the traditional route? What if it was just me and you on the beach. No one else. How does that sound?”

Ashten closed his eyes. In his head he saw them on the beach, at sunset, the waves gently lapping against the sand as they said their vows. Magical. Peaceful. No rush, no fuss. Just him and the man he loved promising to be together forever.

“But what about—“

“We don’t have to worry about them. We can have a party when we get back or we can do nothing at all. We make our own rules. In your heart, what do you want?”

Ashten didn’t hesitate. “The beach.”

“Me too.”

Ashten pulled in a lungful of air, then let it out slowly. A weight had been lifted. As excited as he was to start his life with Trent, it hadn’t felt right to start that life with a traditional, large wedding. A private ceremony on the beach felt right. Complete. Perfect.

“I want Jesse to get married at the hotel, then. Free of charge. It seemed really important to them to have a big party, and I want them to be happy.”

Trent kissed him on the mouth quickly. “I was thinking the same thing.”

“I suppose that means I need to apologize.”

“Not necessarily, but you should at least talk to him.”

“Fine.”

Ashten stood, grabbing Trent’s hand and pulling him up. “Let’s go to bed. It’s been a hell of a day.”

***

Jesse unclipped Duke’s leash and let him run. They didn’t have any company in the dog park, so Duke marked each tree and bush without worry.

Ashten would arrive at any time. Jesse knew it. It was a twin thing.

Yesterday’s events still whirled in his mind. He definitely regretted fighting with Ashten, but that didn’t necessarily mean he was about to give up his wedding date.  He was ready to talk it out like adults, though.

“Hey.”

Jesse turned to find Ashten approaching the bench. Duchess followed closely behind him, searching for Duke, no doubt. Ashten unclipped her leash before sitting down next to Jesse.

They were silent a moment, watching the dogs play and chase each other.

“So, Pop has a… boyfriend,” Jesse said. He barely believed it. His dad deserved to be happy, and if last night was any indication, he was very happy with Dale.

“Yeah.”

“I didn’t see that coming.”

Ashten laughed. “Me neither.”

They slipped back into silence.

This time Ashten broke it. “I’m really sorry about the other morning.”

“Me too.” Jesse sighed. Time to get this over with. “Listen, we should talk about the date. I’m sure we can work something out. Compromise or whatever.”

“Trent and I already talked about it. It’s yours.” One side of Ashten’s mouth twitched into a grin. “Turns out, we don’t want a big wedding, or anything close to traditional. We’re going to elope. Hawaii or the Philippines or somewhere. Anywhere. Just me and Trent.” His smiled filled out, and the joy practically radiated off him.

“That’s great, really.” Jesse slipped his arm around Ashten’s shoulder and hugged him. “I’m happy for you two.”

“Thanks. We want you and Troy to get married at the hotel. Free of charge.” He held up his hand before Jesse could respond. “Don’t argue. It’s our gift to you.”

Tears filled his eyes, but Jesse blinked them away. He didn’t need to turn into a big baby. “Thanks, Ashten. I—I don’t know what to say.”

Ashten grinned knowingly. His eyes not quite dry either. “That’s what brothers are for.”

“Both of us getting married. Who would’ve thought?”

“Not me.”

Jesse nudged Ashten’s shoulder “You’ll be my best man right?”

This time a tear slipped out of the corner of Ashten’s eye. “Of course.”

Chapter Five

The party was in full swing. Couples danced around the floor. Ashten spotted Bryce and Susie smiling at each other like two young lovebirds.

He gazed around the ballroom. Somehow he’d lost his husband in the mass of people.

Husband.

A week ago they had tied the knot in a private ceremony on a beach in the Bahamas. Just him and Trent. Troy and Jesse had watched via webcam, but that was it.

And now his brother and Troy had had their dream wedding. It was exactly like they’d described. Huge. Practically every person they’d ever met attended the extravagant party. Ashten had never seen Troy smile so much or his brother look so happy.

A pair of arms wrapped around Ashten’s waist, and he was pulled tight against a strong chest.

“Looking for me?” Trent whispered in his ear before kissing his neck.

“Yeah, I was thinking it had been a while since I had seen my husband.”

Trent laughed. “Would you like to dance?”

Ashten nodded and grabbed Trent’s hand, pulling him to the dance floor. He wrapped his arms around Trent’s shoulders and they swayed to the music.

His father and Dale sat at a table nearby, holding hands, leaning into one another as they talked. Ashten caught his dad’s eye and smiled. His father raised his glass and nodded.

It thrilled him to see his dad so happy.

Ashten looked around again and found Jesse wrapped in Troy’s arms, also on the dance floor. He thought Jesse’s cheeks might burst with the smile that split his face.

Jesse winked at him. His happiness radiating off him, and Ashten winked back.

He couldn’t imagine anything better than this moment, surrounded by people he loved, wrapped in the arms of his husband.

Perfect.

Other Titles by Jena Wade

Just A Series:

Just A Week

Just A Year

& Series:

Shoes & Ties

Lumber & Law

Forever & Always

RHI Series

Reining Him In

Roping Him In

Mechanically Inclined

Technically Dating\

Jena Wade

Jena lives in Michigan with her husband, two dogs, and three children. By day she works as a web developer and at night she writes. She was born and raised on a farm and spends most of her free time outdoors, playing in the garden or tending to her landscaping.

Find out more about the author at http://www.thejenawade.com/.