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“Alright, one more game. But I won't go easy on you this time, Addison. Prepare for defeat!”

“Would anyone like a fresh drink?” I offer.

“I’d love another drink. Addison, you know what I like,” Brando replies, smiling at his daughter.

Addison follows me into the kitchen, plopping down on a bar stool while I retrieve drinks and ice from the refrigerator.

“Have you been married for long?” Addison asks as I place a serving tray in front of her.

Startled, I reply, “Married? To Race?” I chuckle as she nods her head. “We are roommates. He and I have been best friends since high school.”

“Just friends?”

“Race is gay, and I am single.” I laugh.

“You guys are so fun to hang out with.” Addison's smile flashes on her face. “It's always just me and my dad, except for Megan.” Her eyes turn dark and watery as she continues, “My mom died when I was a baby. Dad doesn't talk much about it, but I've looked at pictures.”

“That’s tough, sweetheart,” I say, pulling her in for a hug. “My father wasn't the best communicator either. But keep asking him and give him time. I’m sure he will tell you everything you need to know.”

“Let’s get back to the game,” she says with a heavy sigh, blinking her tears away.

CHAPTER16

BRANDO

As I walk outof the bathroom, I overhear Addison and Ana in the kitchen, talking about Addison's mom. Not wanting to eavesdrop, I sigh and walk away.

Once they are back in the dining room, Addison playfully teases, “Dad, be prepared. This crown is staying right here.”

I play along, a grin spreading across my face. “We'll see about that, princess. You might have met your match.”

As the game progresses, the room is buzzing with laughter, shouts of excitement, and more groans. Addison's strategic moves impress us all, and I can't help but admire her skills.

I can’t stop myself from stealing glances at Ana. She is breathtaking. There's a magnetic pull between us, and under different circumstances, I’d chase her and take her, without worrying about consequences. But she is my employee, and her boyfriend is sitting right next to her.

Scrap that plan.

Race is putting the Uno cards away, and we start getting ready to leave.

On our way out, Addison offers an unexpected invitation. “Ana, Race, would you like to join us at the Central Park race tomorrow morning? It's the New York Road Runner Run-As-One. They have a half-mile run for the kids and a 5K for the adults. I plan to run both; Dad says I can.”

Ana spins around to face Race. “Do we have any plans tomorrow? We don't have to run, we can just cheer them on.”

“Other than our weekly trip to the farmers’ market before meeting up with the girls, we have no plans.” Race snickers. “I'm in if you're in. As for running, if J-Lo isn't in front of me, I can't guarantee I'll be motivated, but I can give it a try.”

Ana grins, looking at Addison with delight. “We're in! It sounds like fun, and I love supporting a great cause!”

“Color us there, lovebug!” Race chuckles.

Dammit, Addison!

I don't know if I can spend any more time near Ana without the overwhelming desire to sweep her into my arms and claim her. But she has a boyfriend and pursuing her is out of the question. As hard as it is to keep her image out of my head when I fist my cock in the shower, I need to keep my distance. And maybe treat myself to a cold rinse or two.

“Great. We'll see you tomorrow,” I say stiffly. “Addison, we need to get going so we'll be fresh for the race, especially if you want to run both,” I urge, gently guiding her toward the door.

“See y'all tomorrow!” Ana and Race offer warm smiles as we exit their apartment.

A wave of simmering jealousy churns through me as I reluctantly leave Ana behind with Race.

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