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“We need to talk about this, Charlie,” Daniel says in a concerning tone. “About the three of us.”

Charlie’s response is muffled and hesitant. “I know, I know. But can’t it wait until we’re back in the city?”

“It’s not going to get any easier,” Daniel sighs. “If Harrison’s mom knows, that meanseveryoneknows. We’re used to being talked about for our athleticism, but this? Being gossiped about because of our love lives? We need to be prepared for the negativity.”

I shift in my seat, trying to find a more comfortable position. The leather squeaks beneath me, and I freeze, wondering if they realize I’m awake. If they do, neither of them acknowledges it.

“I don’t care what people think,” Charlie says, his voice rising slightly. “This is about us, not them. All they have is words. Whatmatters is that we don’t let the chatter in. We focus on ourselves and each other.”

Daniel’s silence means he’s computing. This might not be math, but it’s still an equation that needs to be figured out. I can picture the furrow of his brow, the way he’s likely drumming his fingers against the steering wheel as he mulls over Charlie’s words.

“You’re right,” he concedes. “We’ll take it one day at a time. Together.”

I drift off to sleep, my mind swirling with images of Charlie and Daniel. The way Charlie’s dimples appear when he laughs, the sensation of Daniel’s strong arms around me. The taste of their kisses and the throbbing between their legs.

I don’t know what the future holds for us, but I do know one thing. I’m not letting go of this, of them, without a fight. We’ve come too far and been through too much to let the opinions of others tear us apart.

The gallery isabuzz with activity when I arrive, and Danielle is at the center of the commotion.

“Harrison, darling!” she exclaims, bustling over to greet me with a warm hug. “Thank goodness you’re here. We have lots to do before the opening.”

I smile at her enthusiasm. Danielle has been a constant source of support and encouragement. And somehow, over time, she’s become a friend, a mentor, and even a mother figure.

“Put me to work, boss,” I say, rolling up my proverbial sleeves. “What needs to be done?”

Danielle hands me a checklist and rattles off a series of tasks. “The lighting needs to be adjusted on the new installations. The catering staff will be here in an hour to set up, and we still need to finalize the guest list.”

I nod, taking the paper from her perfectly manicured hands. As I scan the list, Danielle clears her throat delicately. “I couldn’thelp but notice the recent publicity surrounding you and a certain pair of baseball players.”

My cheeks flush at her words. I knew this conversation was coming. “Ah, yes. That.”

“That, indeed. How are you holding up, my dear? I can’t imagine it’s been easy, having your personal life splashed across social media.”

“Honestly, Danielle? I’m okay. More than okay. I mean, sure, it was a shock to hear that there were photos of us all over the internet. But at the same time, it’s kind of a relief, you know?”

Danielle nods. “I can understand that. But are you prepared for the constant scrutiny that comes with dating not one but two high-profile athletes? The media—and overzealous fans—can be ruthless, Harrison. I want to make sure you know what lies ahead.”

“Danielle, I knew exactly what I was getting into when I fell for Charlie and Daniel. They’re not just any college baseball players—they’re the star pitcher and catcher of the Ashford University Green Wolves. I’d have to be living under a rock not to realize the attention that would come with that.”

“I’m glad to hear that, Harrison.” She smiles. “You’re stronger than you give yourself credit for. And you know I’m always here if you need someone to talk to, right?”

I return her smile as a surge of affection comes over me for this incredible woman who has been such an integral part of my life. “I know, Danielle. And I appreciate that more than you could ever know.”

My heart racesat the thought of facing Daniel’s parents again, this time as an official part of their son’s life. The last time I’d seen them, I was an aloof asshole. From everything Daniel has shared with me about them, they don’t sound as bad as my parents. But still, I’m nervous as fuck.

Charlie’s parents welcomed me in with open arms. I’ve already made plans to visit them over the summer. Will Daniel’s parents be as kind?

Walking into Charlie and Daniel’s brownstone, the Hollingsworths are seated on the plush living room sofa, their expressions unreadable as Daniel leads me over to them.

His mother wears a navy sheath dress, perfectly pressed, with not a strand of her sleek black hair out of place. She sits ramrod straight, ankles crossed, and hands folded primly in her lap. Her hazel eyes, so much like Daniel’s, regard me with a mix of curiosity and what I can only describe as polite apprehension.

Next to her, Daniel’s father cuts an imposing figure in a charcoal suit, his salt-and-pepper hair neatly combed back. He leans back into the cushions, one arm draped casually over the back of the sofa, but there’s nothing casual about his demeanor. His gaze is sharp and assessing, as if he’s trying to see straight into my soul.

I glance down at what I’m wearing—a faded brown hoodie and a pair of well-worn sweats—and inwardly cringe. I am woefully underdressed for the occasion. But I force a smile to my face, determined not to let my discomfort show.

“Mom, Dad,” Daniel says, his voice steady and confident, “this is Harrison. My boyfriend. Do you remember him from his parents’ anniversary party a few months ago?”

Mrs. Hollingsworth is the first to speak. “Of course. It’s lovely to see you again, Harrison. Daniel’s told us plenty about you.”