Letting My Brother's Best Friend Take My V-Card

BURST PIPE JESS

The sound of heavy boots on the porch brought me to the front door before the second knock landed. I swung it open to find Josh standing there, a sheepish grin on his face, and Laura and Sarah behind him, each carrying duffel bags.

"Hey, Jess," Josh started, scratching the back of his neck. "Thanks again for letting us crash here for a bit. It's a nightmare over at the house."

Laura let out a dramatic sigh. "A nightmare is an

understatement. Water is everywhere, the floorboards are fucking ruined, and now they have to turn off the power and water while they tear up the plumbing. Honestly, I'm just glad

we have somewhere to go."

I smiled despite the ache in my feet. "You're always welcome here. You know that."

Stepping aside, I motioned for them to come in. Josh walked through first, dropping his bag by the stairs. Laura followed, immediately heading toward the kitchen like it was second nature. Sarah lingered a moment longer, her lips curving into a polite smile as she passed me.

"I hope it's not too much trouble," she said softly.

"It's fine," I replied, meaning it-mostly.

The truth was, I didn't mind having them here. Our house was

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big enough to accommodate them, and it wasn't like Luke and I hadn't dealt with chaos before. The bigger issue was managing it while feeling like I'd been hit by a truck after every little task.

leading them toward

in the foyer, glancing around like she was

upstairs. "Josh, you'll take this one with Laura," I said,

beside it. "I had something going on the stove. Mind if I just finish it here?" Laura said to nobody in particular as she sauntered back down. Josh chuckled, ruffling her hair before heading into

I found Sarah waiting by

at the back of the house. "It's a little cozier than the ones upstairs, but it's got an attached bathroom, so you'll

she said with a shrug,

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288 Vouchers

this

offered, ignoring the slight unease her comment

to get settled,

at the stove, stirring something that looked far too fancy for a last-minute dinner. A pot of pasta was boiling beside her,

you," I said, sinking onto one of the barstools. "I don't think I have the energy

something decent. Besides, you've been on your feet all day, haven't you?" I glanced down at my swollen feet, hidden under

playful but firm. "Sit. Rest.

argue. The dull throb in my feet was enough to convince me

Luke walked in, his hair damp

the room to press a kiss to

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said, leaning into him for