Sweet Mischief’s Rollercoaster Romance

Leo gave Chunky's belly a playful slap. "Still hoping to drop ten pounds in your sleep?"

Firecrackers snapped and popped in the distance, thickening the air with smoke until everyone turned into hazy silhouettes.

Andre's car was parked far off, headlights dim. He sat quietly, watching the tall kid standing by the edge of the neighborhood.

In the rearview mirror, Noah caught Andre's expression calm but unreadable—- as they watched the fireworks get set up, lit, and burn out. Andre didn't say a word.

Leo had his arm around Chunky, laughing with a few of their buddies, all of them soaking in the fun at their little hangout.

Noah looked back again. Andre's eyes held pride, but seeing the place-old, rough around the edges-maybe there was a bit of sadness, too.

Beside Andre on the seat was Chunky's file. Noah knew these two-uncle and nephew—were stubborn as hell, both proud, both secretly looking out for each

other.

One of them left Cedillo Inc. but still kept a close eye on the company, sharp enough to spot trouble like Greg. The other, quick to say the harshest things and kick people out, but the moment Chunky got close to someone new, he ordered a background check-only relaxing when he knew there was no threat.

"Boss, want to go down?" Noah asked quietly.

pulled his gaze back. "Let's go.

was winding down, and Andre signaled that it

he turned, he caught a glimpse

standing

forcing

time at the empty road, but the only thing left was a shadow in his

didn't even

leaned against the wall and called her. "Babe, I just didn't want you

running after me either! I'm tired of all this back and

trying to win her over

juniors piped up, "Hey Chunky, how come Leo's not

girlfriend. Let him be, we'll keep drinking." Chunky popped open

him. "Hey, Leo said you're only allowed three beers tonight-this is your

bosses me around, and now you kids do

for five years and

phone, and grumbled, "I have zero freedom. It's been so long since