Broken Toys (Closed)

Gabby Thorne closed her eyes in the back of the Escalade, listening to the way the buffeting rain pelted the vehicle as she settled back into the plush leather with one knee crossed over the other. It was dark and the streets were quiet with mostly everyone tucked up in their homes during the torrential downpour, yellow light glimmering down at her from the windows of the apartments on either side of the lane the black SUV was parked on. The paint job was so dark with tinted windows that one might even miss it if they happened to peer out the glass of their homes to watch the steady stream of water down the storm drains, hoping to see a shadow of movement across from them.

Everyone was tucked up inside their homes except one tiny sodden girl who was cowering underneath the awning of a cafe which was long since closed for the night.

Gabrielle eyed the girl as critically as she could through the glass with fat raindrops continuously obscuring her view.

She had memorized Brinley Hale’s face by now; so much so that she could trace it in her sleep. Gabby clucked her tongue at the ratty stained white sneakers Brinley was wearing, no doubt soaked through from the puddles she’d dashed through to find cover only twenty minutes ago. Her jeans must have weighed a ton and that windbreaker was maybe the only decent piece of clothing Brinley had left these days, despite all Gabrielle’s efforts to the contrary. Curled up in a tight pretzel with her knees drawn up to her chest and her head tucked away from the wind and the rain, she looked quite pitiful.

She’s on her last pair of socks she thought to herself. The last thing we need is her catching hypothermia.

To the casual observer, it would have seemed strange to find such a luxurious vehicle here at any point in the day, but especially at ten-thirty in the evening during the wettest night the county had seen yet this spring. The Thorne’s radiated money and didn’t often cross into this part of town but Gabrielle had been drawn here almost three months ago now — struck by the sight of a young woman ducking behind cars to escape some drunks one evening after a romantic night out with her husband Ethan, Gabby had been drawn to the shadow of a tiny body darting by her peripherals. When she turned to look at what the commotion was, the raucous sound kept her fixated long enough to tug Ethan in that direction the shadow had gone. He’d been hesitant at first, clearly sensing a confrontation, but when it became obvious that the men couldn’t keep up with whomever (or whatever) they were chasing, steps clumsy and uncoordinated, they’d given up.

Gabrielle hadn’t. She couldn’t even say why she’d felt the need to follow, but Ethan was surprisingly compliant when she tugged him along behind her with furtive squeezes of his fingers in askance.

It had been then that they’d found her — a mousy little thing with curly wild brown hair and the brightest green eyes kneeling next to a bus stop about fifty feet away from her initial location. Her threadbare sweater was sliding free of one shoulder and her shoes were clearly well-loved. Despite it all, she looked clean and strong for someone who was clearly homeless.

Brinley Evelyn Hale. She was 18 years old, doing her best to survive after running away from home just two days after her birthday. Gabrielle thought back to the information on the background check that their good friend Nick had compiled for them, having memorized this, too.

Brinley’s mother was anything but a good example for the young girl — she’d been in and out of rehab facilities over the last four years for addiction to methamphetamines and had a shitty taste in men; Gabrielle didn’t blame the young woman for deciding she might be better off in the wind, but she couldn’t imagine just why on earth she’d want to leave a warm bed to sleep in the gutters. Gabby had never known anything but a gifted life, and she refused to think of her son living in squalor, stomach-turning at the idea. Sebastian would never survive it.

Brinley’s mother had only reported her missing 11 days after she had up and disappeared, admitting later to the police that she hadn’t seen her daughter since the fourth of May, two days after her birthday when she had waved goodbye on her way out the door to a movie.

Amazing parenting skills Gabby had sneered with disgust when she’d read the report out loud to Ethan.

It was now almost into September.

Gabrielle and Ethan had thought about reporting her whereabouts after they recognized the pretty face staring back at them through the gloom that first night having seen it splashed across the newspapers, but that indescribable force had kept Gabby from calling it in. Now, she recognized and clutched at her need to keep the young woman close; she’d just been following Brinley since.

The Thorne’s were well known around the city for being quite the philanthropists; they supported many charities and made it a point to always hand out water bottles and care packages to the homeless population at local shelters and food kitchens. They always had a hand to offer to struggling small businesses. To anyone looking in, the Thorne’s used their vast fortune obtained through lucrative oil deposits on their large property and the strict entrepreneurial skills Ethan had in spades for the betterment of their community.

It only made sense that Gabby had taken Brinley under her wing like some little pet project - almost a week after discovering her, Brinley showed up at the women’s centre to pick through some clothing that had been donated (and personally delivered) by Mrs. Thorne and the women from her book club (posh thing, really, where everyone went to bitch about how rough they had it instead of actually reading anything, God fucking forbid). It had been a surprise since Brinley didn’t like handouts, after all, as Gabby’s research had revealed, but need had driven her forward.

Up close, Brinley was definitely pretty but mostly skittish. The eighteen year-old kept her elbows tucked close to her torso and avoided contact with anyone else as though they had the plague, light green eyes dropped nervously into the gaping maw of boxes piled onto tables laden with socks, shirts, leggings, jeans and even sweaters. Was that a pair of sneakers? For a moment, Gabrielle watched the light in Brinley’s eyes grow luminous before dimming in disappointment when she realized the shoes wouldn’t fit.

Gabrielle had taken slow, measured steps toward her, careful not to scare her off. She lifted her lips into a slight smile and cleared her throat just once. Mrs. Thorne ensured her voice was lowered as though she were speaking to a scared child, tentatively curling her fingers around the edges of the box Brinley was digging through.

“Sweetheart, is there something I can help you find?”

The girl made this quiet little breathy sigh before she raised her eyes to meet Gabby’s head on, oddly confident considering her presentation.

“I’m looking for new shoes,” she finally said, after letting the silence drag on for what seemed like infinity. Brinley’s voice was soft, light but sweet, the cadence like the gentle chiming of bells. It was the first time Gabby had heard it and it broke open the smile on her mouth into something wider, happier.

“Mine are…”

Bending forward, Gabrielle caught sight of two neon green socked toes peeking out of a split maw of what had once been a decent pair of sneakers as Brinley lifted her heel to show the other woman.

“I see,” Gabby replied solemnly. “What size, love? If we don’t have any I’ll buy you a pair. We can’t have you going without.”

Brinley had flinched, refusing the older woman’s charity initially. It became apparent very quickly just how stubborn Gabby could be, though, because the next time Brinley had shown her face at the centre for some spare food scraps there was a parcel waiting just for her.

She’d come back for it a few days later after the staff had initially notified her it was there when the entire sole busted out of her left trainer.

Since then, Gabby always seemed to be there, offering Brinley food, new clothing when hers was reaching its final days, and even a couple books that she could stash in her backpack. Brinley hated it, but turning down the other woman’s generosity made some terribly hurt expression cross her face and made Brinley feel guilty about how ungrateful she was being. It took time, but these days Gabby could reach out and take Brinley’s hands in her own, pushing the hair out of her eyes and remarking on her need for a haircut (which she had forced on Brinley, too, but only the split ends and her bangs, so it was okay).

They’d made huge steps over the last several months, but now…

Now it’s time you came home, baby girl.

Blue eyes stared almost hungrily out the window into the dark as Brinley shifted for the first time in half an hour, repositioning her limbs and trying to crawl further out of the wet.

Sending a text to her husband (we’ll be home soon, baby) that was nothing short of excited for what she was about to do, Gabby unfolded her long legs and reached for the door. “I’ll be right back, Hudson,” she spoke briskly to her driver. “And then we’ll be on our way.”

With a gentle toss of her phone down onto the seat, she vacated the Escalade with umbrella in hand to dash through the rain until she was offering the respite from the rain to Brinley, who looked up in confusion, squinting at her.

“Mrs. Thorne?” she asked, with surprise bleeding into her tone. “What are you doing here?”

Gabby reached down with her free hand to hold it out, saying: “aren’t you cold, Bri? C’mon hun — let’s get you somewhere warm.”

Brinley hesitated, but after months and months of having her insecurities eaten away and having been gifted support by Gabrielle, there was no reason to deny her. But maybe…

“Maybe only till the rain stops,” she agreed slowly, reaching up with frozen fingers, numb where the water and wind had seeped through her into her bones.

Gabby pulled the teenager onto her feet, and with one arm wrapped around Brinley’s shoulders, uncaring as to the way Brinley’s clothing was now soaking through Gabrielle’s, she ushered Brinley into the Escalade, shutting the door on her old life.

Sebastian Thorne stretched his well toned, athletic body and yawned as he lay naked under the white satin sheets on his large four poster bed. He turned his head to look out the full length glass doors with the curtains only half drawn, eyes squinting. He couldn't see anything outside. It was dark and gloomy. He had been sleeping in the second master bedroom that was housed within this great mansion. It was designed with a dark color scheme, with a spacious hot tub in one corner, and a fireplace opposite the bed. The glass doors opened to a balcony overlooking the garden. The rain was still gushing relentlessly and he could hear the noise the water made outside. The lights in the room were on.

He extended one arm to grab the phone on the nightstand. Holy shit! He couldn’t believe he had slept for that long. Why was he in bed at this ungodly hour? It was ten in the evening. Some would say it was a decent time to be fast asleep in one's home for any normal family or kids, but not for Sebastian. His day would begin in the evening and extend into wee hours of the morning. This had been the routine for the last year or so, ever since he had graduated from high school.

He then let out a yawn and tossed the phone aside with a stupid grin on his face as he remembered the real reason that had caused him to fall into such a deep state of rest at this unusual hour, even though he’d originally been meaning to go work out around seven p.m. and then clubbing later with a couple of friends. He recalled the sensation of those lips on the tip of his erect cock before he had fallen asleep. And now he was awake, and aroused again, causing a tent underneath the sheets, craving for more. Always for more. Such a greedy son of a bitch he was. Like mother like son.

Being born into the influential and aristocratic Thorne family, not to mention tremendously wealthy, he had never had to ask for anything. Neither to his parents, nor to anyone else. Everything had always been served to him on a silver platter. He always got any toy he wanted, deserving or not. If his parents promised him something, those promises were always fulfilled. He had only recently celebrated his nineteenth birthday but his parents had made sure that he would lead a life of comfort and luxury even if he didn’t work for a single day for the rest of his life, and the boy had so far never had the urge to work for anything. Or anyone.

He pulled the sheets away and sat upright on the bed. He still had time if he wanted to go out, but he was unsure whether any of his friends would be venturing out of their homes tonight considering the weather was just terribly “uncool”. He climbed out of the bed, put on the printed boxers his mother had gifted him during christmas, and the white tee shirt lying on the plush carpeted floor. Dragging himself out of the bedroom, he headed downstairs to search for his parents.

He could hear his father talking to someone on the phone from his study. His mother, Gabrielle, was nowhere to be seen as Sebastian walked into the huge wide open airy space facing the main doorway. The hall was littered with expensive artwork and the walls were colored in natural tones and comfortable inviting couches sat all around. He turned right and moved towards the half open french doors of the study and entered, pushing one door aside.

Ethan Thorne was sitting behind a large desk that dominated the room. The white walls and ceilings, along with oak furniture, gave a refreshing yet comfortable feeling to the large space. A few plants lined the walls and there was another table near the window that had a computer sitting on it.

Ethan seemed a bit frustrated as he sat in his large black leather chair behind the desk, speaking with someone on the phone.

Sebastian tried to interrupt his father. “Dad, do you know where mom is? I can’t find her anywhere.”

Ethan looked up at his son just for a moment, smiled, but continued to speak on the phone with his lawyer.

“Dad!” Sebastian repeated. Still no answer; all he got was his father’s hand raised in the air requesting him to wait until he was finished, but the boy lacked patience and walked out of the room.

Where had she gone in this teeming deluge that was not ready to subside? Maybe she was on the other side of the mansion. It was quite a big residence but the three of them rarely ventured into any of the rooms on the east side; they were normally closed and used only for certain recreational activities. Besides, why would she go there by herself?

Sebastian headed upstairs, back towards his bedroom. He grabbed the phone lying on the bed, texted a couple of his friends, dialed a few numbers, and once he realized he was going to have to stay home for the night, called Gabby on her mobile. No answer. Mildly annoyed, he dropped the phone back onto the bed and headed to the gym room in the basement for a quick work out.

Ethan glanced at his son, watching him leave, both with empathy for the teenager and mild annoyance at his behavior. Like father like son. Experience had taught Ethan a lot of things, however. He did not have the good fortune of growing up in such luxury since birth. Although they were well off, and the entrepreneur within him had always been active, giving rise to several small business ventures even at a young age. It wasn’t until he was in his early twenties that he, along with his old man, had discovered large oil deposits on their ancestral property. The discovery had turned their fortunes overnight and made them famous. His son, however, was a different breed. It wasn't because the boy lacked talent; it was the way he had been brought up and nurtured. There is a thing called showering too much of love and attention on your offspring to the point that you start covering for, or worse, ignoring most of their faults. Gabby and Ethan were guilty of that. Whether they considered it good or bad was a different question — maybe they just didn't care anymore. It happens when priorities are messed up and sometimes, when the people themselves are messed up in the head. The Thorne's however appeared anything but “messed up” to the outside world.

It was past ten-thirty p.m. when Ethan finally hung up the phone and relaxed, leaning back in his chair. The long discussion had drained him mentally. He thought of Gabby and where she might be, fingers treading through his thick brown hair. It had been a while since she had left the house. He realized that Sebastian was unaware of where his mother had gone, even though the boy was aware of Brinley and knew that his mother and father had been spending time with this girl. He just didn’t know when they would finally be ready to get her out of that hole she lived in.

Just then, his cell phone beeped and a message appeared we’ll be home soon, baby on the screen. It was from his darling wife. A smile crossed Ethan's lips as he thought of what was about to happen; all the preparations that had been going on for the past several months were going to come to fruition soon.

His mind wandered back briefly to the time when he had first seen the pretty, homeless girl with curly brown hair and green eyes, staring at him, as he and his wife had followed her intently. The pretty face appeared before his eyes. Gabby had been adamant that they pursue this girl. She hadn't been able to stop talking about Brinley for a week. Although he had complied that night, Ethan had been skeptical for a while, but had come around after Gabby had persuaded him to reconsider their plan. Once he had met her and talked to her, however, there had been no doubt what they had to do. She wouldn’t have to remain a shadow darting around in the streets anymore. Even though Brinley was by no means a pushover and had self respect and character, not to mention enough spunk for an eighteen year old girl who had basically nothing going for her, there was something about her that drew Ethan towards her. Why else would he be ready to take such a huge risk again? The last experience had ended in a tragedy. No matter how powerful, the Thorne family could probably not handle another disaster as well as they had handled the previous one. They were not keen on dealing with anymore failure. But Gabby had been right in this case; it would have been a mistake if he hadn't listened to his wife and at least gotten to know the girl. They had to bring her home. He had visited the shelter again a couple of times along with his wife and interacted with Brinley. After tonight, he would never have to visit that place again. The little girl was coming home to him. She was coming home to all of them. To her new family. To begin a new life.

Gabby made smalltalk the entire way, likely trying to make Brinley feel more comfortable trapped in an enclosed space with relative strangers, even if she did owe a lot to Mrs. Thorne. Brinley was mostly quiet, taking it all in and enjoying a reprieve from the rain. It was warm inside the Escalade, and Mrs. Thorne had even given Brinley a spare blanket that had been folded under the seat.

Finally, Brinley asked tentatively “I’m sorry, Mrs. Thorne, but where are we going? The shelter is the other way, and it’s not like they have space for me...”

Gabrielle turned kind blue eyes onto Brinley and reached out with one hand, squeezing the girl’s fingers. “Oh honey, I told you — we’re going home. Ethan and I will explain everything when we get to the house, okay? Don’t you trust me?”

She paused and added: “and please, call me Gabby. Everyone does.”

And that was the kicker — for how well she knew either of the Thornes, Brinley trusted this woman. It may have been stupid and she didn’t know why, but she did know that Gabrielle had done more for the teenager than anyone had in months. She didn’t see what harm could come her way inside this woman’s home compared to out in the streets where anyone could take the few measly possessions she’d had.

Or worse.

She didn’t think that people as nice as the Thornes could do her any damage, so Brinley smiled shakily and nodded. “I... I mean. Yeah. Yeah, I do.”

*****

Just as the SUV rolled up the driveway completely formed of light gray stones, the rain started to let up. Brinley was able to peek through the spotty glass window at the well-lit yard and hou— no, the well-lit mansion in front of them. It stole her breath and she let out a gasp of wonderment, face practically pushed onto the window to get a better look. She’d never imagined anything like that, but it struck her that she shouldn’t be surprised. The old ladies that helped at the centre had told her that the Thornes were rolling in it and that they had more money than they’d ever be able to spend in their lifetimes. The women had given Brinley more than enough derision when Gabby had practically taken the girl under her wing.

“You live here?” she breathed, amazed, turning in her seat to level Gabby with the widest green eyes she may have ever seen. “No joke?”

Gabrielle’s laugh was loud and boisterous. “No baby girl, no joke. Look — there comes Ethan. Let’s grab your things and—“

It struck her then that when Brinley had climbed into the vehicle they’d left everything behind. It was soaked through and probably garbage now anyway, and Gabrielle didn’t intend for Brinley to ever touch another rag in her life - nothing but the best, from now on, after all. Although the public would never know she existed, Gabrielle couldn’t bare the idea that anyone living under her roof have nothing but the best.

“Oh,” she said simply. “I hope there wasn’t anything irreplaceable. Otherwise, I intend to take you shopping and we’ll take care of it.”

There hadn’t been anything, not really, other than a picture of Lena, Brinley’s old bestie. Still, the picture had been faded and almost unrecognizable from how often the girl had stroked her thumb over Lena’s grinning face so...

With a twang of sadness, Brinley shook her head.

“No, Ma’am, nothing,” she responded quietly.

Just then, the door to the Escalade opened. Brinley offered Mr. Thorne a weak smile, hoping that he wouldn’t think she was imposing. She’d only met him a few times and he seemed nice, but she didn’t have as good of a gauge on his personality as she did his wife.

“Hi, Mr. Thorne. I’m sorry to be a bother,” she said.

Gabby scoffed behind her and gently pushed her forward so they could both stand on level ground. “Stop that,” she chastised easily. “I brought you here and I don’t want to hear one more word about being an imposition. It’s cold and wet — let’s get inside, shall we? Ethan?”

Once again, she held out her hand for Brinley, who accepted it, curling her small fingers around the other woman’s.

This felt natural. It wasn’t scary. She could do this.

Brinley let out the breath she didn’t know she was holding.

Sebastian finished his work out and headed upstairs, stopping by the study one more time, where Ethan was standing by the window. The deluge had weakened considerably compared to earlier, but it was still enough to drench someone if they went outside. He walked into the room where his father, as it appeared, was quietly watching the rain drops, lost in thought. There was a soft smile on his face, however, unlike the frustrated expression he had noticed previously, when he was on the phone.

Ethan sensed somebody behind him who had just entered the room and turned to face his son, who was standing by the desk wearing only his gym shorts and glistening with sweat. He had Gabby, and then Brinley, on his mind this entire time. They would be here any minute. "Yes, Sir. What can I do for you?" He asked Sebastian, walking past the boy to pick something up from his desk.

"Dad, I am going to go take a shower. Do you know where Gab...mom is? I haven't seen her after..." He stopped mid sentence, but continued. "She is not picking up the phone."

"Not picking up her phone? That's strange. When was the last time you called her?" Ethan asked, a bit surprised by the fact that his mother hadn't picked up Sebastian's call. Maybe she was just busy getting the job done, and making Brinley feel as comfortable as possible, without any distractions or interruptions. "Anyway, she messaged me only a few minutes ago. She went out to pick something up and should be back soon. Do you need anything?"

Ethan couldn't give him what he needed. His father and mother could fulfill all his desires and wishes, but there were certain things that only Gabrielle could provide him with. "No." He answered without hesitation, stepping closer to his dad and planting a kiss on his stubbled cheek before starting to walk away. "Tell her I was looking for her whenever she is back. I'll be in my room. And please shave, will you."

Ethan smiled and shook his head, running his fingers across his cheek, as the boy disappeared from the study. He was just like his mother. She preferred her men clean shaven as well. It had been a couple of days since he had used the razor. She didn't mind the occasional stubble, but nothing beyond that. He started wondering about Brinley and what she thought of it. Maybe he would find out soon. If not sooner. They were expected to arrive any moment. Ethan walked out of the room, closing the double doors behind him and went straight to the kitchen to fix himself a drink.

Sebastian entered the bedroom, dropped his gym shorts on the floor next to the bed, and stepped into the bathroom. He felt the pressure from the hot flow against his muscles, as the water ran down his body, while the heavy rain showers outside were coming to a slow halt. He stood still underneath the shower head and grabbed the soap. His thoughts immediately returned to the moment before he had fallen asleep earlier that evening. He couldn't wait any longer. He would have to take care of the problem himself. The muscle between his legs started pulsing once again. Hard, wet, and glistening as the froth started covering Sebastian's shaft, his fingers wrapping around the thickness. He threw his head back in that moment and imagined that luscious, and warm mouth swallowing him in entirety, only making him crave it even more.

Ethan noticed the SUV pulling up into the driveway as he observed the security monitor in the kitchen that was hooked up to cameras situated in the front of the mansion. He put down his glass, and proceeded to the main doorway to welcome their new guest.

The door to the escalade opened, and the little girl stepped out to stand before Ethan. He flashed her a warm smile. She looked as delightful as ever. She would need some scrubbing and polishing, but he trusted Gabby was already on top of it. He was still amazed at his wife’s skills and how she had managed to convince the girl to come live with them. Of course there was a lot of work left to be done. They couldn’t afford to scare her away.

"Hello Brinley. And welcome. It is so nice to see you again." He then turned to look at his beautiful wife, who started criticizing the poor girl in her own loving way, the scoff not going unnoticed as he chuckled inwardly. "Gabby is right. It is not a bother at all." He added, his eyes returning to Brinley, scanning the girl from head to toe even as he was responding to his wife. "Yes, let's all go inside and get warmed up." He stepped to one side, gently placing his hand on the nervous girl's back, trying to usher her forward, before letting go, as she accepted Gabby's hand. "You can show her to her room. There should be plenty of hot water if she would like to freshen up."

Ethan watched the two girls walk up to the main door as he followed closely behind them. He had waited for this moment for a long time. They both had. At least it seemed longer than it actually was. He could only imagine Sebastian’s reaction when he would meet the new addition to their family.

Brinley tried not to tense up at the splay of Ethan’s fingers on her back. It was a nice, steady pressure until Gabrielle stoke her hand and pulled them both through the rain into the luxurious warmth of the foyer. Ethan was right behind them.

Gabby stripped off Brinley’s soaked shoes and jacket, leaving them in a wet pile in the doorway.

“We’ll all talk later but I think you need a shower first to warm up; we don’t want you catching pneumonia,” Gabby bustled. “Come with me.”

She leaned over with one graceful hand on her husband’s chest and kissed him sweetly. “I’m just going to show Brin her room and I’ll meet you in the family room,” she promised with a smile and a wink.

They climbed the grand staircase together and Brinley couldn’t stop glancing from floor to ceiling and all over the walls as various pieces of artwork or decorative pieces kept catching her eye; probably one of those ornate silver vases on display at the top of the stairs cost more than her mother’s house based. This place was swimming in opulence and by the time Brinley was led down the hall to “her room”, she didn’t think it was possible to be any more awestruck.

She was wrong; the room Gabby and Ethan had provided for her was large, decorated in a modern but still contemporary style with a comfortable looking bed, a small sitting area, and even a television mounted on the brick fireplace’s mantle. She could see two open doors other than the floor to ceiling patio doors just inside the sitting room and automatically assumed that one was the closet and the other one had to be the en-suite.

Gabrielle grinned at Brinley’s clear speechlessness.

“I hope it’s good enough; if you think it’s too small there’s a room closer to Sebastian we could...”

“No!” Brinley gasped, spinning around to gape at Mrs. Thorne.

“This is... it’s... amazing,” she returned, voice rising in volume slightly. “I never imagined I’d get to spend the night here. It’s too much.”

“Shhh,” Gabby said, pulling the teenager into her chest, cradling her close to her body with Brinley’s nose buried in the curve of her shoulder where it met her neck. “This is for you Brinley and I don’t want to hear any arguments, okay? We’ll talk about it after you’re done bathing.”

Her tone was soft and reassuring, but someone else might have thought her slightly patronizing. Brinley didn’t — she sunk into the embrace and wrapped her own arms around Mrs. Thorne. She smelled so good; nothing like anyone on the streets. She was warm and gentle, kind and making sure Brinley was well cared for. She couldn’t have asked for more.

“Thank you,” she answered simply, pulling back.

Gabby nodded, both hands now clasped around Brinley’s shoulders. “When you’re done, Isa, our maid, will escort you to us in the family room.”

****

Brinley must have stood silently in place in the bathroom while she took it all in for a good ten minutes. This room was a bit darker, but still very much modern. Glass and wood comprised the entire room, with an open glass-shower that Brinley thought could have fit all the girls from the women’s centre inside and a stand-alone soaker tub that she believed she could drown in. There were vibrantly green house-plants along the walls and even double sinks. It was stunning.

None of it felt real, but when she wiped the fog from the mirror after her bath, Brinley’s wet curls and deep green eyes stared back out at her. Her face was a bit red from the heat of the water but Brinley didn’t care — it had been her first real bath in forever. It had been wonderful. She didn’t think she could ever repay the Thornes for their kindness to her.

When she stepped back out onto the plush carpeting of “her” room, Brinley found a pair of light peach silken pyjamas with black detailing around the edges. The bottoms were shorts, but they were so loose on her from malnutrition that she had to tie them as tight as possible and found they were still a bit baggy; she frowned in discontent.

Still, it was better than her old ratty clothes, which Brinley had left in the hamper just inside her bathroom door, and hesitantly peeked outside into the hallway for any sign of this “Isa” woman after she was all settled. She needn’t worried; as soon as the heavy oak door yielded under her hands, a stern looking woman with dark hair and the brownest eyes Brinley had ever seen stared back at her. She was dressed neatly in a simple black dress that ended just below her knees and plain black heels.

Isa, or Isabella, bowed politely despite Brinley’s complaints and requests for the contrary. “Please miss, come this way. The Thornes are waiting.”

Brinley followed obediently, still concerned that she might get lost in this massive place.

****

After leaving Brinley in her room, Gabby was positively giddy as she hastened her return to her husband. She found him with his hip leaning against one of the old antique console tables they’d acquired from a Spanish vineyard with a drink in his hand, staring out into the darkness beyond the window. Teasingly, she wolf-whistled at him.

“Hey there handsome,” she purred, strolling leisurely towards him. “I missed you tonight. I didn’t plan on being so long, but the best things in life are worth waiting for. I hope you like my present to you, darling; I’ve been working on it a long time.”

Her painted smile was absolutely wicked as she came up behind him and rested her chin on one broad shoulder, pressing a kiss there. Gabby closed her eyes momentarily and enjoyed the feeling of her heart beating against his back, grateful that for the first time in a while they had a chance at the only thing that had ever been missing from their lives. They’d been waiting, and Brinley was home now. She just didn’t know it yet.

The water was dripping from their drenched clothes onto the floor near the entrance as both girls stepped inside the Thorne mansion, Ethan behind them. He watched as Gabby removed Brinley’s shoes and jacket and revealed the cute little girl’s slim, although undernourished and unkempt figure. He knew they would fix that problem soon, now that she was going to be living with them, and getting well fed, more than she could ever imagine. A devilish smile appeared on his face, as his mind started wandering, and eyes started imagining. He got distracted and was snapped back into reality when Gabby leaned in closer with her soft hand against his chest. Any wife might have admonished her husband for staring at another woman like that, or at least felt a pang of jealousy, but not Gabby. And here he was eyeing a pretty, young, and innocent girl.

His lips curled into a grin even as his wife pressed her lips against them. His hand reached to momentarily rest against her hip, as he tasted her on his tongue for an instant. He winked back at her before she ushered the new girl towards her own room. ”Okay. I’ll be waiting.” He said reluctantly.

The truth was that he didn’t want to wait any longer, but Gabby had explained to him earlier that anything good took time if one wanted it done right. Just because he had agreed to go along with her plan, didn’t mean that he could be impatient. He waited and watched both women climb the stairs, until their rear views were no longer visible to his eyes. Once he could no longer see them, he went into the family room and poured himself another drink.

***

Sebastian came out of the steaming bathroom wrapped in a towel after a long hot shower and an orgasm that had seemed to have satisfied him, at least for now. He checked the messages on his cell phone that was still lying on the bed and then proceeded towards the large closet that had an assortment of clothes, shoes, and accessories for him to pick from.

He realized that the rain had stopped by now and that his mother would probably be back home like Ethan had mentioned earlier. He was in no hurry to see her at the moment, however. That could wait. His stomach growled. He got dressed in a pair of comfortable black sweat pants and a grey colored muscle tee, checked himself out in the mirror, and flopped down on the bed to switch on the television. He pressed a button on the intercom and ordered one of the maids to bring him some food. Then, he started flipping through the channels.

***

Ethan stared into the darkness through the window, as he leaned against the antique table and the whiskey flowed down his throat causing a slow burn. There was a darkness deep within him as well that very few had experienced or even knew existed. His wife, Gabrielle, was well aware of it. They were very alike in a lot of ways, yet different, complimenting each other. Their son, Sebastian, had the best and worst qualities acquired from both his mother and father. What had been missing, was Brinley. It wasn't for their lack of trying. Luck had not favored them, though, until now. But now, even with the darkness, things were finally starting to look bright.

He took another gulp of the drink when the kitten-like purr that Gabby made reached his ears from behind. He shifted his stance slightly and tilted his head towards her, smiling, feeling her chest against his back, as her lips touched near his shoulder. Drink in one, his other hand reached to touch hers gently, staying there for a while, just enjoying the closeness. “Hello gorgeous. I missed you too."

He placed the drink on the table, and slowly turned to face Gabrielle. "And yes, it was worth the wait. I am very pleased with you. I see you have been working on this project of yours for a long time, and have worked very hard. I’m impressed. Not because I had any concerns about your skills, but I was always skeptical about whether the girl would agree. I'm sorry if I ever doubted you." He gazed into those sinful blue eyes, the truth behind that wicked smile known only to him, as his arm slid around her waist and pulled her closer against him. "And If I didn’t know you like I do, I would have thought you wanted the present for yourself more than me.” Ethan teased his loving wife and leaned in for a kiss.

As their kiss broke and lips parted, he continued, "Sebastian was looking for you earlier. He seemed a bit upset that mommy dearest wasn't answering his calls. I was wondering what he might have wanted from you that he couldn't ask me for." A mischievous grin formed on Ethan's lips as he drew tiny circles against the small of her back. "I can only imagine his surprise when he sees Brinley. We have been waiting for her for a long time, but he has been just as eager to have her with us. He has no idea she's here, does he?"

Gabby shook her head and rolled her eyes at Sebastian’s insatiable hunger; Ethan certainly could have fulfilled Seb’s desires if he asked, but although both men were okay with this sordid tangle of love lines, they had never felt the need to do anything more than quick pecks here or there. She found it silly but had no complaints about spending more time with her lips wrapped around Sebastian’s cock.

“No, he has no idea. I love that boy to death but he’s dreadfully impulsive. If he had gotten wind... well, it may not have ended with her in our home tonight, but he’ll lose his mind when he knows she’s finally here.”

Wanting one more kiss, she reached up for his mouth with her own. When it broke, Gabrielle smiled against his mouth. “Who is to say I don’t want her just as much as you do? She’s gorgeous, sweet, and so so innocent... there’s nothing about her that I don’t want, Ethan. We’re so good at sharing by now, anyway,” she laughed, crows feet crinkling around those baby blues.

Mischievously, she leaned in again to whisper one thing: “Brinley is in the bath right now. Think about it, baby.”

“That’s what I am afraid of. Him losing his mind is not a great idea. Not yet. If his father is so eager to shower his attention on our new guest, imagine what Sebastian would feel once he saw her. And only god knows what he will do, or try to do. And we want to make her feel anything but scared, at least until she gets settled. Do you think you can have a talk with him, or at least keep him calm and explain to him once again what we’re dealing with here? I might be exaggerating or sounding overly cautious, but I don’t want to repeat the same mistake twice. Not only would we lose her, but there could be other repercussions.”

She would have heard the soft growl that came from her husband’s throat when she talked about how much she might want Brinley, her warm breath against his neck and her words causing him to twitch a bit. They were indeed good at sharing. His fingers drifted slowly away from Gabby’s lower back and spread across her bottom, squeezing one cheek firmly. “Oh, I’ve been thinking about that sweet little thing ever since you left to pick her up, you deliciously wicked woman. Don’t make me go upstairs into the bath and do something I’ll regret.” He tugged all of her five foot seven inches closer against his six foot frame and stared into twinkling blue eyes. “And I’m glad we’re good at sharing. I wouldn’t want to compete with you for her attention.” He added jokingly.

With one hand curled around the column of his neck, Gabby melted into his embrace and layered more a deep kiss on her husband’s mouth. “I’ll talk to him, Ethan,” she promised.

Just then, Isabella’s voice caught their attention from the entryway.

“My apologies — Ms. Hale is freshened up and I’ve escorted her here, as per your request.” The sentence felt stiff, stunted in the lack of emotion there while Isa bowed her head in respect.

Gabby waved her away with a firm “thank you, Isa. You may leave us.”

Brinley, who had been practically hiding behind the older woman was suddenly the centre of attention. It made her want to draw in on herself in anxiety, but she forced herself to continue standing straight upright with an uncertain twist of her lips.

“Thank you,” she said to Isa, before raising her eyes to meet both Gabby and Ethan’s. “And thank you for letting me have a bath. I really appreciate it.”

Gabby drew the teenager in with a friendly invitation to sit and relax with the couple, who were gesturing towards the plush leather couch that divided the space. Brinley carefully stepped across the floor to perch precariously on the end of one of the cushions. Gabby was quick to sit down next to her, smoothing out the ends of her skirt and ensuring that their knees were pressed together.

“It’s our pleasure,” she spoke, sending another wicked smirk in her husband’s direction. “We’re happy that you’re warm and safe, right Ethan?”

Gabby’s verbal promise was enough for Ethan to know that she understood his concern and would handle it properly. His mouth would have moved on to other delectable parts of her body if the maid hadn’t interrupted their kiss. And if she hadn’t brought Brinley with her, he might even have been a little upset at the unwanted disruption. This particular distraction, however, was quite welcome, and deliciously pretty. He had been keen to see Brinley.

Ethan’s hand instantly withdrew from his wife’s buttocks and both of their eyes focused on Brinley Hale, who emerged from behind the older woman and shone into view. Her bright green eyes met with Ethan’s and Gabby’s as she nervously thanked her new family once more. Her brown curls still appeared moist from the bath. Ethan’s gaze drifted along her entire body, taking in every detail as the girl carefully proceeded with his wife towards the couch in the unfamiliar surroundings. She looked like a little angel in that peach colored wrapping with black edges. Gabby was right. Sebastian would have lost his mind.

”Yes, yes. Absolutely.” Ethan remarked. “We are happy that you’re warm and comfortable now. And completely safe here. And like Gabby has already made it clear, please don’t think you are imposing on us. Okay?” He was leaning against the table, and watching the two girls now positioned on one end of the couch, before moving in front of them and taking a seat. “Did you like your new room, Brinley?” He continued and tried not to react to Gabby’s sexy smirk at the moment. He wanted to make sure his every move and every expression came out as warm and friendly to their new guest.

She smiled before nodding tentatively. “It’s lovely. I’ve never had anything as pretty as that, and I promise that I won’t make a mess while I stay tonight. I’ll be neat and clean up after myself before I leave tomorrow,” she said quietly, hoping that neither of the Thornes were left with a bad taste in their mouth after offering a night’s respite from the rain. “Really, I’ll be gone first thing. I promise. I won’t overstay my welcome. I’m so grateful already.”

The grip on her hand was suddenly tight where Gabby had been holding onto Brinley with one hand and playing with the wet curls by her ear with the other, both hands freezing their movements completely.

Gabby paused a moment before sucking in a deep breath and responding in what only be supposed to be soothing for Brinley. “Honey... you don’t really think we brought you here for a sleepover, do you?”

Brinley was uncertain again, nibbling at her full lower lip with her teeth, glancing back and forth between the Thornes.

“Umm... what... what else was I supposed to think?” she questioned pitifully.

Gabby turned astonished eyes on her husband, almost pleading in their intensity. Nobody could say that she wasn’t an expert for weaving sob stories and getting people to buy into her lies; before Ethan, that was how Gabrielle had made a name for herself. She had no remorse for the things she’d had to do to get where she was today.

“Ethan. Ethan baby, please tell our sweet girl what’s really happening, please. One night... For the love of... Oh, Brinley,” Gabby murmured sadly. “Did someone hurt you so badly you have so little faith that someone might just want to help you, for once?”

Brinley ignored that question, green eyes fixed steadily on Mr. Thorne; she didn’t want to rehash her personal issues with these people. “Mr. Thorne?”

The smile on Ethan's face lasted for less than a minute after Brinley had started answering his question. He was about to take another sip of whiskey from the glass he had just grabbed, when he realized that the girl was not going to take their charity willingly. And then it happened what he had feared the most. Gabby began to panic and then froze for a moment. This was not a good sign. He had to somehow handle the situation. Fuck! He had known this would happen at some point, but had no idea they would have to deal with it so soon. He was not as good as his wife with all the drama and acting.

He returned her astounded look and glanced back and forth between the two girls sitting in front of him. Gabby's eyes were pleading him to say something as the girl ignored her attempt to discuss her personal issues with this rich, friendly, but ultimately alien family.

Brinley was looking at Ethan expectantly now, with a steadfast gaze that displayed how strong she could be with her values intact even in the face of adversity. There was a slight uncertainty, though, hidden beneath those mesmerizing green eyes somewhere. Maybe they would have to tap into that and prevent her from leaving.

"Gabby, darling, take it easy. She's not going anywhere at this time of the night. Brinley is a smart and independent girl. If she thinks she would be imposing on us, we need to explain to her why that is not the case." He turned his attention to the girl and smiled softly, while continuing to address his wife. "She is grateful to you for all the help you have provided her so far. But she probably feels like she might overstay her welcome and take advantage of us. Am I right, Brinley?"

He was watching the cute little thing dressed in pajamas very closely even as he spoke, careful, however, not to let his eyes wander away from her face this time.

Gabby was holding onto her as if she were a lifeline. He had to come up with more than that.

"Brinley, I can imagine what you're going through. I know you trust Gabby. And I have a feeling it is not about faith. Don't worry about what she just said. She's only worried you will be out on the streets again, and not safe and cared for anymore. Nobody wants that. Trust me when I say this. We really want you to stay."

He shifted in his seat and leaned forward towards his left, extending his arm and grabbing Brinley's right hand into his palm gently. He cleared his throat before speaking again. "I want you to stay. Would you please at least consider our request?"

He then glanced at Gabrielle and flashed another smile towards Brinley, his voice as soft and comforting as he could manage. "Sleep on it. Okay?"

Teeth sunk even deeper into her lip as she pondered what was going on. Neither of them seemed to like the idea of her leaving tomorrow, though she wasn’t sure why. As she chewed on that, something dawned on her; why waste months on me if they only planned to put up with me for one night? It sounds...

“Permanent?” she whispered, shakily.

“Is that what this is? You wanted me to live here? You weren’t going to send me back out there to the gutters?”

Ethan watched the anxious teenager as she pondered over his proposal. He glanced at Gabby once who was sitting tight next to Brinley.

Her delicate and unsteady whisper brought a soft smile to his lips. “Yes, Brinley. Permanent.”

He squeezed her hand gently within his grip and placed his other hand on top of it, looking at the stunned expression on her pretty face.

Ethan shook his head slowly from side to side in response. “Send you back out there? No, sweetie.”

He looked at Gabby once more and smiled, realizing that the reality of this entire situation was beginning to dawn on the poor little girl. He gazed into Brinley’s eyes that were filled with a thousand questions, and spoke. “We wanted you to live here with us. This will be your new home from today. You are not going anywhere.”

The last comment from Ethan might as well have been an order. They would do everything in their power to make sure she would stay.

She had so many questions, but the most prevalent was this: “but why? Why me? You don’t even know me. I’m a nobody. I’m just some girl who ran away from home.”

Brinley looked down at Ethan’s large hand that basically was large enough to swallow her own tiny hand while she waited for his response. Gabby was also pressing herself insistently into her side now, the arm that had been playing with Brinley’s hair wrapped around her shoulders. She placed the other one on top of her husband’s to give the illusion that they were both holding onto Brinley.

“You deserve this Brin,” she said gently. “It’s not your fault you’ve had shitty examples for parents — you did what you needed to do to survive, and this is the next step; let us help you, baby girl. We’re not asking for anything in return but to see that smile once in a while and to know that we made a difference for you. You’ve had to be strong for so long. Let us take over now,” Gabrielle pleaded.

Brinley side-eyed her, careful to keep Ethan in her peripherals.

“Nothing is free,” she said immediately. “I’m not stupid. There has to be something you want from me, but I don’t have anything to give. You’re wasting your time if that’s what is going on,” Brinley responded defensively. It might have been because she’d never been given anything in her lifetime, but it was maybe basic intuition that screamed at her not to trust strangers. For the few interactions she’d had with them, the Thornes were still unknowns. She’d already broke the cardinal rule and gotten into the Escalade with Gabby, but... to live with them? It seemed far-fetched. Nobody’s charity extended far enough to pull a steet-rat out of the gutters and move them in like this.

Gabby sighed. “We don’t want anything other than this: I’ve always wanted another child around the house. I know you’re grown, but I was never able to give Ethan what he wanted. Sebastian was difficult enough, but to have a baby girl... someone that I can shop with, and spoil, and do girly things with... I’d always wanted a daughter, Brinley, and that never happened. I wasn’t planning on ever getting one, either, but when I met you and got to know you, there was something special inside of you that kept me coming back and wanting to help. You’re right that I don’t willingly spend more time with the destitute than I have to, but I knew that you didn’t deserve the hand you were dealt and I could see how strong you are. Since that day I met you, I knew you were meant to be with us. You could go so far, Brinley: think about it. Don’t you have any dreams? Do you want to go to university? Make something of yourself? You’re too smart to push that opportunity away, because you’ll never get there on your own and you know it. You’d be stupid to reject this offer.”

Gabrielle wasn’t playing anymore - the kid gloves had come off. Although both her and Ethan knew that they would never allow Brinley to further her education or standing in life once she agreed, it was necessary to dangle the carrot for the teenager. They’d seen her grades in school and knew just how bright she was - university wasn’t a stretch for her. In fact, knowing how intelligent this girl was had been another reason they’d chosen her. It was just another thing that they could take and twist and use against her. Smart and pretty, stubborn but broken. Nobody liked broken toys, but sometimes it changed the way you played with them to get the most enjoyment out of them. It was all part of the game, and sometimes drawing it out was the most fun of all.

Brinley saw the truth in Gabby’s statement as she chewed on that, considering. It did open so many doors and also pulled at her heartstrings just a tiny bit that the Thornes desperately just wanted a bigger family, but something, and she didn’t know what, didn’t feel quite right. There was no way for her to know what might happen in the future, but it was fact that Brinley would never be more than homeless (or worse: dead) if she didn’t take this offer.

She dropped her gaze from Gabby and turned back to Ethan, hoping there would be some kind of hint in his eyes.

Ethan realized just how difficult it was going to be to convince this stubborn girl to accept their offer to be a part of their family. And they were just getting started. She hadn’t even been in their home for a day. He was not wrong when he said she was smart. Her question was completely valid. Why her? The answer was quite simple from Ethan’s point of view. He couldn’t reveal his real intentions to the unsuspecting young woman sitting between him and his wife, however. That would come later.

Ethan smiled at Gabby when she placed her hand on top of his. Brinley seemed least impressed though, even as Gabby addressed her, not letting her gaze waver too much from the man clutching her hand who she knew very little about. And was repeatedly looking up to him for an explanation.

Brinley looked like a little kitten being cornered by two hungry wolves sitting on either side of her, ready to pounce and devour her. Ethan eased the gentle pressure of his large fingers over the poor girl’s hands, pushing his right hand upwards against Gabby’s and retracted his arms. He didn’t want to make the girl any more uncomfortable than she already was. Gabby holding onto her was fine, but he had to maintain a fine line when it came to touching her. God! He wanted to touch her in so many ways!

“Why you? Because we like you. We want you to be a part of this, how shall I put it, incomplete family. It is as simple as that. I don’t know how else to put it.”

His gaze was steady as he watched her face. “I like you very much, Brinley. We have a son named Sebastian, who you will soon meet, but I always wanted a girl like you.” Little idea did she have how much and in what ways Ethan wanted her

“You are a bright girl and very strong for your age. You have endured a lot. You have a mind of your own.” A beautiful mind that I am going to twist and turn and enjoy doing it “I appreciate all those qualities in a person. And I have not met many people, men or women, that I could say that about. You could have a very bright future, like Gabby said. But not while living on the street. I absolutely won’t have that.”

Ethan’s voice was slightly raised when he uttered those last words with a hint of frustration in his tone. He then breathed, smiled softly and continued. “Gabby absolutely adores you and even though we don’t know each other as well as you two know each other, I’m hoping that will change if you decide to trust us. If you decide to trust yourself to make that decision. You will find out that I’m not all bad.” Ethan said jokingly and flashed her a grin.

He rose from his seat, went over to the table and poured some water into a glass. “I trust my wife’s instincts, as well as my own. I think we have made a wise choice by bringing you into our lives. It would make her very very happy if you stayed. It would make all of us happy. All we are asking you is to give it time.”

He walked back to tower before the two girls on the couch and handed her the glass. “So now tell me, dear. What is it that you are still really worried about?”

Well, wasn’t that the kicker.

They were really serious about this, and they’d definitely thought it out. It didn’t seem to be an impulsive decision. Still, they were strangers, but Brinley’s own mother hadn’t done as much for her as Gabby And Ethan had...

“I don’t want to be a burden,” she said decisively. “I can’t pay you back, but I’ll do my part around here, if you mean it.”

Brinley squeezed Gabrielle’s hand and the other woman squealed excitedly, throwing herself at the teen and hugging her tightly.

“Oh thank God! Ethan, she’s going to stay!”

Sebastian was lying on his bed and watching some superhero movie on Netflix when one of the newer maids arrived with a tray of food. She was dressed properly in her black uniform and heels. His eyes drifted towards her behind just as she was bending over and placing the items down on the coffee table, getting ready to serve him. His hand started itching, but he was reminded of the stern warning both Gabby and Ethan had given when he had scared away the last maid. And that wasn’t the only time he had done that. Most of the women working for them in the mansion were now off limits. At least until his parents had approved. They couldn’t keep losing good help because of this perpetually horny teenager in the house.

“Would that be all, Sir? Is there anything else you need?” She asked politely.

I do. But apparently, I can’t always have what I need.

“Nope.” He replied, grabbing the plate and turning his attention to the television after he had watched her leave. He had more than most of the boys his age could only dream of. He was never satisfied, however. Always wanting more.

***

Oh, you will be doing your part around here alright. Like I said, give it time, young lady.

Ethan watched Gabby hugging Brinley and was frankly a bit relieved. He was extremely glad to see them getting over this initial hurdle. The path forward wasn’t going to be easy, but she was agreeing to stay, at least for now. This was going to be a lot of fun.

“Yes she is, darling.” He grinned widely at his wife.

“You have made the right decision, Brinley. I’m glad you’re staying. And if anyone dares to call you a burden, I will see to it myself that they are punished appropriately. And that includes you too.” He said with a mischievous smile. “You’re part of our family now. We’re delighted to have you.”

Brinley smiled, leaning in to the hug a bit before Gabby pulled away from her and stood up.

“Well, now that the hard part is over, I have to admit that I’m feeling quite sleepy. Brinley must be ready for a good nap in the luxurious bed that’s calling her name, too,” she said firmly. “It’s late now, so let’s go to bed and we’ll all meet for breakfast in the morning at 8 before we leave for work. Does that sound good?”

Brinley nodded, rising gracefully from the sofa to stand alongside Mrs. Thorne. “Yeah, that’s probably a good idea.”

She paused, unsure on how best to express her current thoughts, knowing that they weren’t a good enough show of gratitude, but needing to say the words anyway.

“Thank you. Thank you so much.”

With that, Brinley turned and worked her way back through the family room to the stairs, hoping that she could find her way to her room without getting lost while the Thornes stood in an introspective silence as they watched her go.

When all was quiet and they were sure Brinley was out of earshot, Gabby’s grin was maniacal at best. “She’s ours, Ethan.” The words were dreamy, excited, eager for the promise of a new future. “I think we have some celebrating to do...”

Ethan’s eyes followed Brinley all the way until she was gone before they came and rested on his wife’s face which was illuminated with the wildest grin he had ever seen.

”Thank god! That could have been a fucking nightmare. I definitely wasn’t prepared for it. I’m glad you decided not to beat around the bush.” He returned the grin with his own wicked one and wrapped one arm around Gabby, pulling her closer for a hug. “Would you like to start here or go to our room for the celebrations?”

***

Sebastian devoured the food on his plate and turned off the television. He thought he had heard noises earlier from downstairs when the maid had come in, but wasn’t keen on leaving his room before he was done eating. He was not sleepy yet. Lifting himself up off the bed, he decided to go in search of his parents.

Gabby had to be back by now. He was looking forward to wishing her a good night. And of course Ethan as well. Sebastian closed the door to his room and made his way through the corridor, a short walk, before he emerged into the wider area that would lead him towards the top of the stairs.

Gabby laughed, hands pushing against her husband’s chest until he was sitting in the spot Brinley had just vacated.

“Oh, I don’t want to wait,” she purred, insistent fingers digging at his waistband. It took no time at all for her to unfasten his slacks and yank his briefs down along with them, dropping to her knees with a heavy thud on the hardwood. She smirked up at him as she wrapped one hand around his semi-hard cock.

“Think about it, baby. Those pouty lips of hers wrapped around your dick and her big innocent eyes... I wonder if she’s even done this before?” Gabby pondered, stroking from base to tip.

****

Brinley had just crested the top of the stairs and turned the corner to the hallway that led her back to her room when she collided with something very warm and solid. She gasped, stumbling backwards, before catching herself with one hand braced on the wall.

When she managed to right herself she found herself staring into intense hazel eyes, having to look up at the towering figure before her. The mountain of a man she’d attempted to plow over appeared young and strong. He was absurdly good-looking and Brinley decided that this must be Sebastian. She was embarrassed to have made such a fool of herself, but the flush on her cheeks and the nervous way she twisted her fingers together must have made him take some pity on her, because there was no acidic demand to watch where she was going; only quiet interest as he waited for her to calm down.

“I’m sorry,” she spoke quietly. “I didn’t mean to run into you. I’ll pay more attention,” Brinley rambled, eyes darting away to look at her own feet instead.

Ethan was staring into those impatient blues all the way until he was sitting on the couch. She wasted no time in telling him what she wanted. His eyes drifted downwards for a moment before settling back on her face.

“I thought so.” His arm extended, fingers stroked her cheek before caressing her hair, watching her undress him from the waist down. His arousal had been confined in those pants all day, waiting to be freed and attended to. Gabby always knew just what he needed. And when he needed it.

Ethan relaxed on the couch as Gabby’s fingers touched him. He started imagining Brinley’s mouth on his cock and it made him twitch right in his seat as Gabby mentioned her name.

“Fuck, baby.” A low growl could be heard from his throat. “I am so going to enjoy breaking her in and turning her into my pet.” Ethan’s cock grew between Gabby’s fingers even as she stroked him. “But until then, I want to see how those pouty lips would play with my dick when they kiss it for the first time. Show it to me, love.”

***

Sebastian felt something soft and tiny collide against him suddenly as he was about to turn the corner from the hallway towards the stairs. He couldn’t believe what he was seeing before his eyes as he stopped and stared at Brinley Hale. The cute girl was wrapped in peach colored pajamas that were too big for her. His cock stirred inside those sweats, as his eyes took in her beauty.

“Oh, no. It’s alright. I hope I didn’t scare you. I...”

Her nervous demeanor and the way her bright green eyes blushed up at him after their accident made him grin slightly. Then all of a sudden, he remembered who she was. Of course! It all made sense now. This was the girl his parents had not been able to stop talking about. He couldn’t recall her name, but he was glad she was finally here. Gabby had shown him a picture of Brinley. But she looked even more luscious than she did in her photo. And his mother had probably gone to pick her up earlier, when she hadn’t bothered answering his call. He chuckled inwardly, admiring his parents’ choice.

“Hi! I’m Sebastian. And you are...?”

She’d been right after all.

“I’m Brinley. Brinley Hale.”

Sticking out a small hand, Brinley offered it to him. “Nice to meet you.”

****

Gabrielle worked her husband’s prick expertly, teasing him with comments throughout that made him imagine it was their newest possession kneeing between his splayed thighs instead of his wife. She kissed the crown sweetly before chasing that with the flick of her tongue underneath the ridge of it, following the prominent veins there with her dexterous expertise. When she felt that she had teased enough, she worked her lips lower down onto his shaft and hollowed her cheeks around the head to provide steady pressure before she slackened her throat and buried her face in his pelvis. Inhaling deeply, Gabrielle enjoyed the musky arousal of her husband.

She drew back, murmuring once her lips popped off with a wet smack.

“Maybe she’s even a virgin, baby. I want you to picture it when you fuck me tonight; I want you to call her name while you cum.”

With that, Gabrielle’s warm wet mouth slid back down the length of him, births enough that she gagged only once before the entirety of him was buried in her throat.

Those nights that the couple thought of Brinley while they played always lead to the best orgasms. She hoped that this was no exception.

"Nice to meet you too, Brinley Hale."

Sebastian shook her delicate hand and squeezed ever so gently. She was an incredibly gorgeous creature. His eyes were all over her. He wanted to pick her up in his arms and take her with him to his bedroom.

"My parents have told me so much about you. Are you looking for something, or someone?"

***

Ethan let his wife lick his erect dick like a yummy lollipop. Her comments and teasing made him growl inwardly, wishing it was Brinley on her knees, between his legs, along with Gabrielle. His back arched, hips thrusting upwards and feeding more of his cock to Gabby, as her warm and wet mouth swallowed him. He could almost imagine Brinley's face between his thighs, the thickness of his shaft stretching her sweet lips, the bulbous head shoved all the way down her throat, making her eyes watery.

"Fuck."

His arm extended, fingers grabbed a handful of dark blonde tresses and tugged hard, before pushing her head down onto his throbbing dick.

"I am so going to enjoy taking her virginity. Each and every one of her sacred holes. It has been a while since I fucked one. Tonight, you are going to be my virgin, baby."

She blushed, not wanting to look silly in front of him, and also recognizing that his hand was just as large and powerful and warm as his father’s had been; her hand was minuscule compared to theirs.

“Uhm, actually, I’m kinda... lost. I think my room is just down this hallway? But I don’t really remember. Everything’s been a bit of a blur tonight,” she admitted. “Could I bother you for one second?”

****

Gabby moaned happily at both his words and his actions. She loved when her husband was rough with her, and either party enjoyed the odd roleplay session. This time, Gabrielle was going to play the role of innocent teenager, sinking fully into the role of Brinley herself until the other girl was ready to service Ethan. Gabby allowed him to fuck her mouth with smooth rolls of his pelvis, eyes locked onto the flexing of his abdominal muscles as she continued to take him deep inside. Spittle was pooling one the corner’s of her mouth and leaking from them when he’d bury his cock to the root, and Gabby didn’t like anything as much as she did messy blowjobs.

When he pulled her head off with a tight grip on her scalp, Gabby giggled dazedly.

“I hope this is good for you, Sir; the last thing I’d want to do it disappoint you, Mr. Thorne.”