The salty breeze drifted in through the open balcony doors, carrying the distant sound of waves crashing rhythmically against the shore. The suite was bathed in soft golden light, the flicker of a few candles casting dancing shadows on the walls. Glasses clinked softly as Matthew poured another round, the rich scent of aged whiskey filling the air.

Matthew stretched out on the plush sofa, a warm grin tugging at his lips as he glanced at his two old friends. “You guys have been hogging the good stuff,” he teased, lifting his glass with a playful glare. “Don’t think I’m going to let you win the ‘best drinker’ award this weekend.”

Derrek laughed, a deep, rumbling sound that filled the room as he took a slow sip. “Please, Matt, you barely made it through that last round. I’m just warming up.” His eyes sparkled with mischief, his easy swagger making the expensive room feel suddenly more like their old stomping ground.

Theo, leaning casually against the balcony railing, flicked his glass with a slow spin, the amber liquid catching the light. “You both underestimate me,” he said smoothly, voice low and teasing. “I’ve got stamina. Besides...” He raised an eyebrow, a sly smile playing on his lips. “I’m here to enjoy the view — and the company.”

Matthew shook his head, chuckling as he leaned forward. “Alright, alright. Truce for now. But don’t think I’m not watching.” His eyes flicked between them, full of warmth and challenge. “So, what’s the plan for the rest of the night? More drinks? Maybe some music? I’ve got the playlist ready.”

Derrek grinned, tossing his empty glass onto the table with a casual flourish. “You’re on, Matty. But don’t blame me when you lose.”

Theo’s smirk deepened as he stepped fully into the room, letting the breeze from the balcony tousle his hair. “Game on.”

The atmosphere was light, laughter bubbling beneath the surface, but something electric hummed between them — a quiet tension wrapped in old friendship and new promises.

At that moment, the door opened gently, and the room seemed to hold its breath.

You entered.

“Hey,” Matthew beamed, already half-standing from the edge of the couch. “Perfect timing. Guys—” he gestured, flushed with pride and whiskey, “this is her. My wife.”

The room fell still for the briefest moment.

Derrek blinked once. Then again. The smirk he’d worn all evening froze, then reformed, slower this time. He set his glass down a little too quietly. No fucking way.

Theo’s fingers paused mid-spin on his tumbler. His lips parted just slightly, eyes narrowing as recognition hit like a slow wave. Of course. He didn’t speak just leaned back into the sofa, one brow lifting as he took in the sight of her, every inch of her, like he was seeing a plot twist in a film and enjoying it a little too much.

Matthew was oblivious, grinning like a man who had just introduced the world’s most precious secret. “Come on,” he said, reaching for your hand. “You’ve got to sit. You’re gonna love these two.”