Rules Of Our Own (Rule Breaker Series Book 3)
Rules Of Our Own: Chapter 40

GERARD LEANS FORWARD in his chair, a thoughtful expression etched on his face as he clasps his hands together like a tent. I can’t help but take notice of the opulence that surrounds me—from the dark granite floors and walls to the framed prints and bonsai tree, plus the spectacular harbor view outside the floor-to-ceiling windows that illuminate Gerard’s silver-flecked hair. He’s dressed in an impressive three-piece suit, but there’s something about this man that radiates kindness rather than power.

“Do you think this will work?” he asks.

I feel my anxiety begin to melt away as I speak, confident in my abilities as I explain my ideas in detail. Gerard attentively listens to every word, not breaking eye contact except to take notes.

Something within me changed between yesterday and today—I’m confident this project will be successful and express it with no hesitation. “Yes, sir. I have it all set up—just need one more month, and I promise you’ll have everything you’ve asked for.”

Gerard raises an eyebrow at my boldness. “I told you no more extensions.”

I feel my body tense up like a coiled spring as I try, and fail, to swallow the golf-ball-sized lump that lodges itself stubbornly in my throat. “I know, and I know why you said that, but the PR manager for the Bruins asked for time to get everything ready on her side. Don’t worry. I already have buy-ins from several of the players.”

My stomach flutters at the thought of the boys last night, their eyes locked on mine as I spoke about my ideas. Their genuine interest was like a balm to my nerves, soothing away any doubts or fears I had been harboring. It was a complete contrast to what I had grown used to with Jason. He didn’t care what I did on his best days and actively discouraged me on his worst. The absolute confidence that Alex and River have in me caught me off guard, almost knocking the wind out of me.

When they look at me, it isn’t just with interest but with a deep-rooted belief that I can do anything, be anyone I want to be. They don’t try to hold me back or stick me in a box; instead, they go out of their way to show support for my every endeavor. My heart squeezes with a warmth that creeps up from my chest because they’re quickly becoming an essential part of my life that I will never be able to give up.

Gerard’s hands land on his desk, and he stands. “Alright, Dr. Brooks. You have your extra month.” He raises one eyebrow. “Don’t waste it.”

I can’t help the giddiness bubbling inside me, and it’s practically spilling over by the time I exit the elevator into the lobby. Alex and River are talking to each other, and they both look up at the same time. A smile takes over Alex’s face, showing off his dimples, but it’s the grin on River’s that does me under.

I don’t stop running until I crash into them, holding them both in the world’s most awkward hug. “I did it. I’m getting the extension, and he thinks it’s a good idea,” I say between raspy breaths.

Alex kisses the top of my head. “Of course he does, Kitten. It is a fantastic idea. It’s a fucking brilliant idea.”

The thrill of my meeting mixes with the warmth of their heady scents, and suddenly, all my adrenaline turns into something hot and aching. I turn and rest my head back on Alex’s shoulder when he wraps his arms around me from behind, and I stare up at River.

He cups my jaw, sliding his long fingers around my neck, and strokes my cheekbone with his thumb. He presses his lips to mine, taking my mouth in a soft kiss. “I’m so proud of you, Love. I knew you had this. Now, let us take you home and show you just how good you’ve been.”

My breath hitches, and Alex’s chuckle rumbles against my back. River leans down until his mouth is beside my ear. “I want to take you home and fuck that pretty little cunt of yours and show you how proud we are. Will you do that, Love? Will you let us show you how good we can be together?”

I’m burning from the inside, and I can’t hear the world around us. All I can see, hear, and feel is them, and I so desperately want what they’re offering. “Please.”

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