Ever After Awaits (Layla) novel Chapter 33

Chapter 33: AJ POV

I know what is going through Hunter’s mind as he sits across from me during dinner that I’m having second thoughts about my involvement with layla,

He couldn’t be more wrong. I’ve always been quiet and contemplative when I dedicate my thoughts to something important.

He fails to comprehend though that Layla Kincaid is the most important thing in my life back when we were neighbors and even more so now after I found her again. She is my end goal in life, no matter how much baggage, trauma, or issues she believes she might have.

We all worry in some way, shape, or form that we might not be good enough, or mentally healthy enough to allow another person close to us. But that is the beauty of finding “your person“. Helping each other overcome those hurdles, aiding your significant other to heal, and becoming better versions of yourselves, together, is the most beautiful and rewarding experience.

Hunter and Cade are bantering on the other side of the island. After they came to the mutual understanding that they would share Layla, their dynamic shifted somewhat. I can’t put my finger on it, but it’s almost like they are less guarded.

Initially, because society teaches us that monogamy is what a relationship should look like, the idea confounded me.

How can a guy, who claims to love his girl, be okay with seeing her with another guy as he holds her, comforts her, kisses her, and eventually is intimate with her? Wouldn’t he get jealous and ultimately possessive? That is not healthy, for any relationship.

But sitting here, thinking back to those short sexy moments earlier at the bowling alley, no jealousy made itself known as I watched her flirt with them. It would have been different if she left me out, but her attention was divided equally, and each enjoyed a different aspect of her as she discovered her sensual side.

She deserves to have multiple men at her feet as they worship her like a goddess, pampers her like a newborn kitten, and blankets her in love and affection. And being the selfish bastard I am, I want to be one of the lucky ones to bask in her lifeblood.

Xavier, the sulking bastard, hasn’t spoken a word since we left his dad’s house. I can only imagine that the argument he had with Cade is the main reason for his broodiness. But none of us will be letting him off the hook easily after the shitty comments he made.

I get that he is conflicted and feels confused. But that does not justify his actions, all because he has some deep–seated issues with his dad and an aversion to cultivating meaningful relationships with women.

But I for one, will not hide my interest and affection for Layla so he doesn’t feel neglected. Fuck that shit.

Hunter’s phone chimes and when he reads the message on his

“Moira just texted that Layla is home safe.”

Treen, I see his shoulders visibly relax.

Cade and I immediately perk up. Knowing she’s safe is a great relief. I don’t know what I would’ve done if something happened to her after she left.

“Do you think we contact Layla, check in with her, and find out how she’s phone.

holding up?” Cade asks, already reaching into his pocket, presumably for his

Hunter, ever the voice of reason, says, “Let’s give her tonight. I imagine her emotions are topsy–turvy and we don’t want to overwhelm her.”

Before Cade and I can concede that he’s right, Xavier pipes up, “For fuck’s sake, stop babying her. She should pull up her big girl panties and get over it.”

The subsequent silence that engulfs the kitchen speaks volumes. What did this motherfucker just say?

Before I can even get to my feet, intent on laying him out, Cade is on him like a cheap suit.

forearm is pressed up against his throat. Not enough to In the next second, Xavier is shoved off his barstool and slammed into the wall behind him. Cad cut off his air supply, but enough to make sure he stays put and shuts the fuck up while listening carefully.

“The next time you speak about Layla like that, I will knock you the fuck out. Continue with your bullshit, and I’ll make sure the whole offensive line forgets to protect their QB during our next game.”

Xavier is momentarily stunned, and his eyes widen in shock. Truthfully, Cade’s threat has taken me aback too, but I’m here for it. Xavier needs a wake–up call and maybe getting his ass handed to him on the football field, will make him think twice about disrespecting Layla again.

Chapter 33: AJ POV

During the scuffle, Hunter stepped up behind Cade. Placing a hand on Cade’s shoulder, it seems he intends to pull Cade away from Xavier, but he writes me with his next words.

“We’ve been friends forever, but make no mistake, if you ever word vomit about Layla like that again, I’m done with you. If you don’t want anything to do with her, then fine. We’ll respect your wishes and not rub our relationship with her in your face. But from now on, as a somewhat decent human being, you, will show her respect when she is in your proximity. If you don’t want to listen when we talk about her, you will shut your trap and walk away, Clear?”

Before Xavier can answer, I saunter over to Cade’s other side. “And even though we haven’t known each other long, I will have no queims in ganning for your position as QB on the football team. Just because I decide not to play does not mean I can’t. Remember that the next time you want to act like a fuckwit when it comes to Layla.”

With a final shove of his arm against Xavier’s chest, Cade steps away from him, and without us even giving him a chance to speak, we turn and leave the kitchen – united in our devotion to Layla.

Knowing Xavier, this won’t be our last altercation, but he now knows what will happen when he crosses the proverbial line.

As we get to the top of the stairs (Xavier can clean up the kitchen as his punishment), Hunter turns to me with a victorious smile.

“Nice to have you on board, brother.”

My answering smile is automatic and natural because there is no better feeling than knowing Layla will soon be mine. Or, to be more specific, ours.

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