Charity in Action Pt. 05

Author's Note: All characters are over the age of 18. This story is a work of fiction. Please do not republish on other platforms without my express permission.

Brevity is the wit of the soul so this chapter won't be witty. I'm always amazed at how much I want to include so fair warning that it is a slow burn, but hopefully it will be worth it!

Constructive criticism welcomed. Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoy!!

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One of my favorite things about being in the hospital is that you get pampered by the nurses and people really pity you. That silent treatment that Ava gave me after we left her dad's? Gonezo! She was spoiling me rotten and we actually were communicating like we used to before all this madness. The worst part though were the unwelcomed visitors.

"Wow, Uncle Roger, Aunt Denise... I can't believe that you're here." I couldn't have been more unenthusiastic if I tried. They were currently both standing next to my bed with strange expressions.

"Where is Ava?" I ask, looking around the room as my stomach drops. They were the last people I wanted to talk with right now.

"We told her to get some rest. The poor girl must be sick of being cooped up in here," Aunt Denise says as she steps closer, her hand reaching towards me.

I jerk away instinctively, a flash of hurt crosses her face and I felt a bit bad. "Er, yeah. She's probably sick of the hospital food, but what are you guys doing here? Not that I don't appreciate it, of course."

Uncle Roger shakes his head. "Look Fin, I know we didn't part on the best of terms last time, but we do care for you. We're still family."

"Yes," Aunt Denise begins as she glances at her husband then returns her gaze to me. "We... we may have done it for years, but we've never really... shared this side of us... it was hard for us to really know how to help you. It must have been... a shock for you, but... we didn't mean for you to feel so uncomfortable."

I wasn't in the mood so I decide to stop dancing around the issue. I sit up in the bed and give them a stern look. "Do we really have to talk about... about that? I just want to put that all behind us."

Uncle Roger sits down on the chair beside my bed and crosses his legs as he finds the words to answer. "Look... we know that your marriage has been... well, is evolving in a sense."

"..."

"We just want to help, Fin," Aunt Denise says softly, her eyes filled with genuine concern. "We've been through some tough times in our marriage too and we've found the spark we needed to really... revitalize us, show us who we are."

"Plus," Uncle Roger starts, his voice lowering a notch as he leans over to grasp his wife's hand. "We want you to know that honesty is key in a successful marriage. In fact, that's what helped with our relationship."

I groan as I look away, not wanting to even look at them. Almost as if I did, it would be a silent assent to their perverted lifestyle. "Look, I told you. I don't want to talk about... that or anything related to it."

Aunt Denise smiles gently, sitting down on the edge of my bed. "You don't have to lie to us, Fin. We can see you and Ava have been through a lot. And we know that a little... variety can help."

The way she said 'variety' made my stomach flip. "Look, I appreciate your concern, but Ava and I are working through our issues. Our own way. We're not, no offense, like you guys."

Aunt Denise nods, her smile never faltering. "That's what we thought at first too. Society likes to make it out like we're some sort of freaks of nature, but the thing is, we're just honest with ourselves. The secret to a strong marriage is honesty and open communication. I wasn't honest with your uncle and..."

She looks at her husband for a second as a flicker of regret crosses her face. "... and it ended up causing more pain than it was worth."

Uncle Roger nods, his expression turning serious. "I was very angry at first, but seeing your aunt so raw and vulnerable as she opened up to me... it strengthened our marriage in ways we never could have predicted. It was like a huge burden had been lifted from our shoulders and we were finally free."

I swallow hard as I try to push down the dark part of me which was eating this up. "I'm... I'm not saying it's bad or anything, but I don't think Ava is ready for... that kind of... um... endeavor."

Uncle Roger nods. "Understood, but sometimes we need to push ourselves out of our comfort zones... for the sake of our relationships." He glances at his wife, who nods in agreement. "Why don't you talk to her about it? Just pitch the idea and see how she feels?"

I shook my head emphatically. Ava would never agree, much less, entertain the idea. "I've... thought about it before, but I'm pretty sure she's not into that kind of stuff."

"You'd be surprised, Fin," Aunt Denise says, her voice filled with a knowing tone. "Sometimes, people just need to be introduced to the idea gently, see it from a different perspective."

I stare at the bright white ceiling, my mind racing with the implications of their advice. I know they mean well, but the thought of bringing this up to Ava felt like purposely walking into a minefield. "I'll... consider it."

"That's all we ask," Uncle Roger says, patting my arm before standing up. "We're here for you, Fin. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call."

Aunt Denise gives me a warm smile as she rises from the bed. "Remember, honesty and communication are key, dear. Maybe it could be the spark that reignites the passion and lifts your marriage to new heights."

I nod as they leave, but inside I was thinking it could also be the spark that blows up our relationship. Plus, it was strange how little the whole Terry thing seemed to affect her. Had my wife changed after the Alvin incident? Or was it me that's changed? I closed my eyes while these troubling thoughts swirled in my head as I dozed off.

"Wake up, honey. It's time for you to eat your dinner."

I groan as I pull the blanket up to cover my face. Her voice felt like nails on the chalkboard.

"Come on, Fin. Don't be a baby. You'll have plenty of time to sleep later."

"Aw, come on, mom. Just a few more minutes."

"Fiiiiin! Hmph, you've forced my hand!"

I feel her yank away the covers and I hiss as I cover my eyes from the hospital light. "You've got to be kidding me, Ava! I'm a wounded man here! Besides, why bother me for more of that hospital slop?"

"Well, if you open your eyes, you'd see that I brought us some Chinese."

I take a sniff and sure enough, I could smell it. MSG and soy sauce, perfection. My eyes shoot open as I exclaim, "No way! Haha! You're a lifesaver, hun!"

It felt good to just sit there and finally eat some real food. Ava was animated as she told me about her volunteer work. I was listening on and off like usual, just happy she seemed back to normal. Apparently, that trip to her dad's helped more than expected. However, one thing did catch my attention.

"... and then James told me about the blue jay he saw near the park and the picture he drew was just incredible! You have to see it," Ava says excitedly as she shows me her phone.

"Oh, wow, that's pretty good. You said he's a novice? That could sell well on a t-shirt."

"Uh huh. It's a lot better than my doodles at least! Speaking of which," Ava pauses for a moment as she chews on her food thoughtfully. "I... invited James over for dinner next week since he's... Well, you know, since his divorce, he doesn't have many people to turn to."

"Um, ok? It would have been nice for you to let me know. I barely even know the guy! And what about the kids?"

My barrage of questions made Ava shrink back a little as she places her food down on the tray. "I'm sorry, honey. It just happened so fast. James was talking about how he has no one to celebrate his birthday with and I just opened my mouth without thinking about it."

I sigh as I rub my temples. "Aw, geez. Now, I feel like the asshole! I can't really say no to that. Plus, it'll give the kids something to celebrate, I guess."

She takes my hand and holds it as her thumb rubs the top affectionately. "Fin... I'm sorry. I know you're recovering and it was wrong of me to spring it on you like this..."

Ava was starting to lose her cool again and I could see the progress begin to crumble so I quickly placed my hand on her's as I looked into her eyes. "There's nothing to worry about. I was just... caught off guard is all. Of course, we can have James over. It'd be cruel if we just left him alone, especially on his birthday."

"Thank you, Fin! I'll make it up to you, I promise!" Ava says cheerfully as she hugs me tightly.

This was my chance, I felt like it was the time to test the waters. It was now or never. "Um, Ava... I've been thinking about some things..."

Her eyes met mine, a hint of curiosity mixed with concern. "Is something wrong?"

Taking in a deep breath, I began, "Ava, I know this might sound weird, but... have you... have you ever thought about... exploring... other possibilities in our relationship?"

Her eyebrows slowly rises as she looks me straight in the eyes. "Other possibilities? What do you mean?"

I exhale and decide to just dive in, trying to keep my voice as steady as possible. "Well, you know... like... maybe... we can try... something new."

Ava swallowed hard, her eyes wide as she blinks hard. "What... what are you... what are you talking about?"

"You know... like... letting us... letting us see other people," I explain awkwardly, my heart pounding in my chest. The crazy thing is that I wasn't even sure I wanted this. Yet, something inside was pushing me forward. "It's not like we're unhappy or anything... it's just... I want to try something new."

Ava stares at me with utter disbelief. "Fin, where is this coming from? Did you hit your head or something?" She tries to laugh it off, but I can hear her voice is tight.

"Ava-"

"Shhh. It's ok, Fin. Just rest. I'll leave you alone so you can rest and we can put that... that behind us."

Her words hit me like a ton of bricks as she leaves abruptly. Suddenly, I felt like the biggest idiot in the world. What was I thinking? I should have kept it to myself. Uncle Roger and Aunt Denise's advice had backfired and now I had egg all over my face.

I try to distract myself by flipping through the TV channels, but everything seems to blur together. Nothing catches my interest and I keep glancing at the clock, with each second feeling like an eternity.

Days pass and yet, Ava gives me the cold shoulder. She's still here, taking care of me, but it's all mechanical now. The warmth and laughter from our hospital bonding sessions have been replaced with stiff smiles and forced pleasantries. This was awkward as hell and I wanted to kill Uncle Roger.

The nurses noticed the shift and their looks of pity made it even worse. They offered me food and extra blankets, but that did little to warm the chill that settled in my marriage. The TV became my best friend. At least it was good background noise to fill the silence.

Well, almost nothing. I checked my "work phone" and saw I received a message from one of my PIs. His message was short and sweet, listing out some countries, all of which were in Europe!

"Finally, some good news!" I mutter as my fingers fly over the screen to thank my guy and instruct him to narrow down the search. I could certainly use the distraction and I spent the next few days calling off some of the other fellas because I needed to save on costs. My little investigation was starting to hit the pocketbook.

As slow as it felt, the day came for me to get out of this dreary hospital and go home. The doctor drilled it into my head that I still needed to be careful and keep my movement to the minimum. Ava came to pick me up and help me get dressed. She was wearing a casual t-shirt and blue jeans combo, yet she still managed to look like a million bucks.

"Ready to blow this popsicle stand?" I joke with a smile as I try to play it cool.

Ava doesn't even smirk as she nods, her eyes avoiding mine as she helps me to the car. The silence is eerie as we make our way out of the hospital. As we reach the car, I take a deep breath and decide to break the ice. "Ava, about what I said the other night..."

"Let's not talk about it, Fin," she says curtly, her eyes focused in front of her.

"But Ava, we have to. It's been eating away at me," I insist, feeling a knot in my stomach. "Besides, aren't you the one who always says we need to always talk about our problems?"

"Fine," she says with a sigh. "But I don't even know where to start."

I take her hand, trying to reassure her. "Look, I know it's weird, but I just want you to know that I'm not unhappy with you or with us. It's just... I've seen some things in my job that have made me think differently about life and relationships. And I don't want us to get stuck in a rut, you know?"

Ava's eyes searched my face for any hint of deceit, but all she could find was genuine concern. "I just don't understand why you would bring this up now, especially after everything."

"Look," I begin, trying to find the right words. "I know it sounds weird, but sometimes... I just get this urge to... watch. It's like a curiosity, you know? I don't know, maybe we could give it a try?"

She stares at me, trying to process what I'm saying. "So, you want to watch other people have sex? You can just watch porn, can't you?"

"No, no, not like that," I stumble over my words. It was just an incoherent word salad at this point so I decide to be more direct. "I mean... I want to watch you... with someone else."

The silence is so thick I could cut it with a knife. Ava's face is a mix of shock, anger, and something else. Something I can't quite read. "You want to... what?!" she exclaims, her eyes wide with disbelief.

I take a deep breath, trying to keep my cool. "I know it sounds weird, but just hear me out, Ava. It's not about me not being satisfied with you. You're the only one I want, really. It's just... it could bring us closer."

Her face is a storm of emotions, but she doesn't pull away. "You want to watch me with someone else?" she repeats, her voice quieter this time. "And that would bring us closer?"

"Yeah," I reply, feeling like I'm treading on eggshells. "It's a... it's a thing, you know? Some couples do it. It's like a trust exercise, a way to explore new boundaries together."

Ava stares at me, her mouth slightly agape. "I... I don't know what to say, Fin. This is... this is not what I was expecting."

"Honey-"

"No," She starts as my wife shakes her head. "I won't... let... let's not talk about this, Fin. You've had... your wounds were bad. That's why you're spouting this... this nonsense." Her voice cracking and I knew I hit a nerve.

Her expression hardens and she starts the car without saying another word. The drive home is tense, the air thick with unspoken anger and confusion. When we pull into the driveway, she turns to me, her eyes filled with a mix of sadness and anger as she points a finger at me. "Fin, not one more word about this, got it? The kids need their dad right now so get it together!"

The front door opens and the kids come rushing out, their laughter and excitement cutting through the tension like a knife. They're thrilled to see me, and for a moment, I forget about the bomb I've just dropped.

"Daddy's home!" they shout in unison, their little hands grabbing at my legs.

I force a smile, feeling the weight of my conversation with Ava still pressing down on me. "Hey, little rascals!" I manage to chuckle, reaching out to ruffle their hair. "Missed me?"

"Yep!" they both reply, their eyes shining with excitement. I take a deep breath and push the heavy thoughts aside, focusing on the joy in their faces.

The house is filled with the warm aroma of a homemade dinner and the kids are eager to show me their school projects plastered on the fridge. For a brief moment, everything feels almost normal again.

The days after my disastrous proposal are a mix of tension and forced normalcy. We go through the motions, but the unspoken tension was suffocating.

The dinner with James was fast approaching and it seemed to be the only thing Ava could focus on. She threw herself into the preparation, cooking up a storm and cleaning the house like it's an Olympic sport. It's clear she's using it as a distraction, a way to avoid talking about the elephant in the room. And frankly, I'm okay with that.

The day of the dinner, Ava is a blur of activity. She's wearing a dress that I've never seen before, something tight and navy that accentuates her curves. It's a stark contrast to her usual casual wear, and it sends a shiver down my spine. Was she trying to make a statement? Maybe she's trying to get my attention? Or was it just to impress James? The latter thought sends a stab of jealousy through me, but I push it aside.

"Fin, could you help me with the table settings?" Ava calls out from the kitchen, her voice strained.

I sigh and make my way over, trying to ignore the pit in my stomach. "Sure, babe," I reply, trying to keep my tone light.

James arrives precisely at 7 PM, the sound of the doorbell echoing through the house like a gunshot. He's dressed sharply in a blue button-up and khaki pants, his bald head gleaming under the porch light. He's a black man in his 40s, with a build that suggests he's a blue collared guy, with the wide shoulders and small belly that hangs over his belt. His smile is wide and friendly, his eyes sparkling with an easy charm that's hard to resist. He greets Ava with a warm hug.

"Thank you for inviting me over," James says, handing Ava a bottle of wine. "I wasn't sure what you guys would like so I played it safe with some white wine."

"It's perfect, James," Ava replies brightly. "Fin, this is James from the volunteer center. James, this is my husband, Fin."

I force a smile and extend my hand. "Nice to finally meet you, James and happy birthday! Come in. Ava's told me a lot about you."

James looks surprised for a moment then nods. "Thank you, Fin. It's good to meet you too. You're looking good for someone who's been stabbed!"

I laugh. "Ah, you know, stab wounds are like fine wine. They get better with time," I say, attempting to lighten the mood.

We sit down to dinner, the scent of garlic and rosemary from the roast chicken filling the room. Ava had outdone herself with the meal, and for a brief moment, it feels like we're back to our old selves, enjoying the company of an old friend. James starts talking about his job as a trucker, his stories about the road sounding like they're straight out of a movie script. He's got this way of speaking, a smooth rhythm that makes you hang onto every word. He tells us about the time he saw a UFO outside of Albuquerque and kids just bombarded him with questions.

After some cake, the conversation starts to wind down and I can see the exhaustion etched on Ava's face. She's been holding it together all evening, playing the perfect hostess. I offer to help clean up, but she waves me off. "I've got it," she says with a tight smile. "Why don't you go get the kids ready for bed?"

I nod and make my way to the living room where the kids have been playing. As I start the bedtime routine, I can't help but listen to the muffled tones of Ava and James' conversation from the kitchen. They're laughing, and for a second, it sounds like the good ol' days when Ava would laugh with me like that. I shake my head, focusing on the task at hand. The kids are too wound up from the excitement of the evening, so bedtime is a battle, but I manage to get them settled eventually.

When I return to the kitchen, Ava and James are deep in conversation, their voices low. My heart skips a beat as I see Ava leaning against the counter, her hand resting on James' arm. I clear my throat, and they both look up. "Everything okay?" I ask, trying to sound casual.

"Yeah, just catching up," James says, his smile not quite reaching his eyes.

Ava nods in agreement. "James has had a rough time with his divorce," she explains, her voice soft. "His kids are with his ex and he misses them a lot."

"I'm sorry to hear that," I say, genuinely feeling for the guy. "Why don't we crack open that wine you brought? Maybe it'll help ease things."

James nods gratefully and I grab three glasses from the cupboard. As I pour, I catch Ava studying me and a small smile graces her lips. I return it, glad things were thawing between us. I hand them their drinks and take a seat.

The wine does its job, loosening everyone's tongues and the conversation starts to flow more freely. We share stories about our pasts, our hopes, and our dreams. It's surprising how much we have in common, how easily we all fit together. The tension that had been building since my proposal feels like it's dissipating. Maybe this dinner was a good idea after all.

The wine bottle is half empty now, and the conversation turns to more personal matters. James opens up about his ex-wife and the pain of not seeing his kids every day. Ava's hand reaches out to squeeze his, a gesture of understanding and comfort.

"It's tough," James says, his eyes misty. "But you know, sometimes things just don't work out."

Ava nods, her grip on his hand tightening. "You're a great father, James. Your kids are lucky to have you."

The three of us sit in a comfortable silence, sipping our wine, the clinking of glasses and the occasional laugh breaking the quiet. Then, Ava speaks up. "So, James, now that you're single again, what's on the horizon for you?" She asks, her voice gentle and curious.

James chuckles, his eyes looking into the middle distance. "Well, I've been thinking of taking up some hobbies, maybe traveling a bit. You know, live a little before I get too old for it."

Ava's hand is still on his arm, and she gives it a small squeeze. "That's a great attitude to have," she says happily. "You should definitely do that. Life's too short to not enjoy it."

James looks over at her and smiles. "You're right," he says, his voice a little more tender than before. "Maybe I'll start by visiting some of the places I've always wanted to see. Like the beach, maybe. I've never been to the beach. Always wanted to feel the sand between my toes, hear the waves."

"You've never been to the beach?" Ava's eyes widen with surprise. "We should totally plan a trip together, just the three of us," she says, her gaze flicking over to me before returning to James.

The suggestion hangs in the air, and I realize with a start that she's including me in this hypothetical trip. Is this her way of saying she's willing to give us a chance? Or is she just being polite?

"That's a great idea," James says, looking genuinely excited. "I'd love that."

Ava's eyes light up, and she starts planning aloud. "There's this beach just an hour away, it's not too crowded and the sunsets are gorgeous."

James nods eagerly. "Sounds perfect! We could make a weekend of it, rent a beach house, cook out on the porch."

I lean back in my chair, watching them. "Sounds like a plan," I say, trying to match their enthusiasm. "A change of scenery is always good for the soul."

The conversation continues, flowing naturally, until James glances at his watch and lets out a groan. "I better hit the road," he says, standing up. "It's been a long week and I need to catch up on some sleep before my next shift."

Ava and I walk him to the door, the tension from earlier now a distant memory. "Thank you so much for coming," Ava says, giving him a warm smile.

James returns the gesture. "Thank you for having me. This was the best birthday dinner I've had in years. And... I'll definitely take you up on that beach trip!"

As we watch him drive away, Ava turns to me with a sigh. "Well, that was... interesting." She says, her eyes lingering on the spot where James' car disappeared down the street.

"Yeah," I murmur, unsure of what to add. The evening had been a rollercoaster of emotions, and now that we're alone, the weight of our unresolved issues settles back on my shoulders like a heavy blanket.

Ava turns to me, her expression thoughtful. "Fin, I don't know what you're expecting, but we can't just ignore what you said." She crosses her arms, her posture defensive. "I need time to process everything."

"I know," I reply, rubbing the back of my neck. "I'm not asking you to make a decision right now. I just want you to think about it, that's all."

Ava nods slowly, her eyes searching mine. "Okay, I'll think about it," she says finally, her voice barely above a whisper. Her green eyes then flicker up to mine briefly as she opens her mouth. "I... I love you."

The words hang in the air, and my heart flutters with hope. I lean in to kiss her, but she pulls away gently. "But I need my own space tonight," she adds. "To think."

I nod, trying to hide my disappointment. "I understand," I murmur. "Whatever you need."

Ava gives me a small, sad smile. "I'll be in the bedroom," she says softly before heading up the stairs.

I stand there for a moment, the echo of her words ringing in my ears. Space. I need to give her space. I know that, but the thought of her alone up there, thinking about our future, about us, sends a cold shiver down my spine. I take a deep breath and make my way to the living room, the silence of the house seemingly amplified. Time. Time heals all wounds.

The days fly by like a blur. We don't bring up my proposal again. We've reached an unspoken understanding that we're giving each other space to think. But with every passing day, the distance between us feels wider. We're still cordial, but it just wasn't the same. Ava throws herself into her volunteer stuff and me into my work. The monotony changes as soon as we set a date for the beach.

The morning we drop the kids off at my folks, the anticipation is palpable. The car ride to the beach is filled with small talk and awkward silence. When we finally arrive, we spot James' car parked in the sandy lot. He waves as we pull up beside him, looking as relaxed and at ease as ever.

"You guys ready for some fun in the sun?" He calls out as he lifts his sunglasses.

Ava smiles, a genuine smile that lights up her face. "More than ready," she says, stepping out of the car. "I can already feel the rays and the waves!"

James chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Good. Let's make this a weekend to remember!"

We grab our bags and follow him to the beach house, the scent of the salty air and the distant sound of waves crashing setting the stage for our weekend retreat. Inside, the house is cozy and well-equipped, with a large open plan living area and a balcony that offers a breathtaking view of the ocean. The three of us settle in with the tension from the past few weeks seemingly left behind at home.

James suggests that we head down to the beach since we have time until nightfall. Ava agrees enthusiastically and we all change into something more appropriate. As we step onto the warm sand, I can't help but feel a twinge of excitement. Maybe this is exactly what we need, a chance to get away from it all and reconnect.

We spend the afternoon walking along the shoreline, the waves lapping at our feet as we talk about our favorite movies and books. Ava and James laugh together. They're getting along so well and I can't help but feel like I'm intruding on their friendship. But every time I look over, Ava's eyes find mine and I know she's thinking about us too.

As the sun starts to set, we head back to the beach house to start dinner. Ava's cooking skills are on full display again and the aroma of garlic and butter fills the kitchen as she prepares the shrimp scampi we've decided on. James helps set the table and I grab some beers from the fridge.

"So, what's the plan for tomorrow?" James asks as we sit down to eat.

Ava glances up from her plate, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Well, I was thinking we could spend the whole day at the beach. Just relax, soak up some sun, maybe go for a swim."

"Sounds perfect," I agree, popping a piece of garlic bread into my mouth. "I can finally work on my tan. I'm pale as a ghost!"

We all laugh, the sound of our mirth blending with the soothing waves of the ocean outside. As we eat, the conversation turns to lighter topics. After dinner, we clean up together and James helps dry the dishes, his easy-going nature making the task feel less like a chore. With the kitchen spotless, Ava suggests we all turn in early, claiming she needs her beauty sleep for the beach tomorrow.

I wake up the next morning to the smell of coffee and the faint sound of Ava and James talking in the kitchen. I throw on some shorts and a t-shirt and make my way downstairs, feeling more rested than I have in weeks.

"Ah, look at who's finally up! Morning, Fin!" James says cheerfully, handing me a steaming mug of coffee. "Ready to hit the beach?"

"Hah, oh yeah! I'm more than ready," I reply, taking the mug and sipping the hot liquid. "Ah, that hits the spot!"

Ava smiles from her place at the stove, flipping pancakes. She's wearing a flowy sundress, her red hair in a loose ponytail. She's beautiful and I can't help but admire her as she moves seamlessly.

With our bellies full, we grab our towels and sunscreen and make our way to the beach. The sand is warm beneath our feet, and the sound of seagulls fills the air. We find a spot not too crowded and lay out our towels.

The sun is high in the sky and Ava quickly strips down to her maroon swimsuit, showing off her taut form. James and I follow her lead. As I suspected before, he was built exactly like your stereotypical trucker and I could see the muscles on his arms move as he sets down his shirt. His dark skin was already glistening from the heat and sunblock as he wipes his forehead. Feeling self conscious, I keep my Hawaiian shirt on.

As Ava sets her towel down, James' eyes follow her. He whistles lowly. "Wow, Ava, you look stunning," he says with genuine appreciation in his voice. "You're the most beautiful woman on this beach!"

Ava blushes, her cheeks turning a rosy hue that matches her swimsuit. "Oh, James, you're just saying that because the heat's gotten to you," she says, but there's a hint of pleasure in her voice.

James laughs, his deep chuckle rumbling like distant thunder. "Nah, I'm not just saying that. You really do look amazing. Like the Little Mermaid come to life!"

Ava rolls her eyes playfully and giggles. "I don't know about being compared to a Disney princess," she says, laying down and closing her eyes. "But I'll take it."

Their banter is a bit too friendly for my liking, but I try to ignore it. As the sun beats down on us, I feel myself start to drift away in my chair. The sound of the waves is soothing and the gentle conversation between Ava and James lulls me into a state of relaxation. Before I know it, my eyes are heavy and I'm falling asleep in my chair.

When I open my eyes again, the light is a little less harsh and I see that Ava's lying on her stomach on her towel, her back exposed to the sun. James is kneeling beside her, his hands moving in slow, methodical strokes as he applies sunscreen.

I watch them through my sunglasses, the contrast of their skin tones stark against the sand and this all becomes a bit more real to me. His dark hands glide over her white skin, leaving a trail of glistening lotion in their wake. Ava's muscles tense for a second before relaxing again, her breathing deepening slightly.

James' movements are gentle, almost tender and I can't help but feel a pang of... something. Jealousy? Anger? Or is it just the sting of inadequacy? I've been the one to touch her like this countless times before, but now it feels almost foreign, like I'm witnessing a private moment between two strangers. Was I being hypocritical? I wasn't expecting to be so bothered. But why? Her being with Terry didn't bother me this much so why now?

Ava's eyes are closed, her breaths deep and even. She's completely at ease and it's clear she trusts James implicitly. His hands glide over her back, spreading the sunscreen with care. She shivers slightly as he reaches the base of her neck, and I feel the need to remind myself to breathe. This is just friendly, I tell myself. It doesn't mean anything.

"Thank you, James," Ava murmurs, her voice laden with contentment. "Fin really needs to rest up after his ordeal. I'm just worried about him."

"I understand," he says, his voice a gentle rumble. "But he's looking good. I'm sure he'll bounce back in no time."

"You know, James, I really appreciate you coming with us," Ava says, turning her head to look at him. "It means a lot to me, to us."

James finishes up and sits back with a soft smile. "Of course, Ava. You two are good people. I've been feeling pretty lonely since... Well, you know. It's nice to spend time with new friends and make new memories."

As we're talking, a small group of college kids saunters over, their laughter carrying on the breeze. "Hey, you guys mind if we borrow this area for a bit?" One of them, a guy with spiky blond hair, asks with a friendly grin.

Ava's eyes light up at the prospect of activity and she sits up on her elbows. "Volleyball? That sounds like fun!" she says, her enthusiasm bubbling over.

The blond guy's grin widens as he looks at Ava, his eyes sweeps over her figure before meeting her gaze. "Great! We've got a net set up over there. You guys are welcome to join us."

I sit up straighter, suddenly aware of the limits of my own body. The stitches from my stabbing incident are still fresh and the thought of jumping around on the sand is less than appealing. "You two go ahead," I say, trying to keep my voice light. "I've got to be careful with these stitches. Don't want to rip anything open."

Ava looks at me with a hint of disappointment, but she nods. "Okay, if you're sure," she says, then turns back to James with a smile. "Come on, let's show them how it's done!"

James laughs and stands up, stretching his arms out wide. "Oh boy, I don't know if these old bones can handle it," he jokes, his eyes twinkling. "But, I'll give it my best shot. Maybe show these kids a thing or two!"

The blond kid, whose name is "Brad," claps his hands together. "Awesome! Let's do this!" He turns to introduce them to his group of friends, a mix of tanned and fit young adults with smiles as bright as their teeth. There's a tall brunette named Rachel, who winks at James, and the other two guys were Mike, who looked like he lived in the gym, and Alex, who was a chill looking guy with dreadlocks.

Ava stands up, her swimsuit hugging her curves in a way that draws the boys' attention. She's glowing with excitement and as she joins the group, they all chuckle at something she says. As they split into teams, I notice that her body doesn't look out of place among the young bodies. Her skin is still smooth, her figure still firm.

They split into two teams of three, with James and Rachel joining Ava against Brad, Mike, and Alex. The game starts and I watch from the sidelines, nursing my beer and notice the way Rachel's eyes keep flicking over to James. She's flirting with him and he's playing along, clearly enjoying the attention from her.

The first few points are close, but Ava's team starts to pull ahead. Rachel was serving and she sends the ball hurtling towards Brad. He jumps to spike it, but James intercepts with surprising agility for a man his age. The ball sails over Brad's head and it was intercepted by Mike. However, Ava was waiting and scores the point with precise hit. Rachel and James high-five, their laughter ringing out.

The other team's dynamic is different. They blamed each other for the missed points, their faces flushing with frustration. Brad's friends seem to be getting increasingly annoyed with him and Rachel doesn't hesitate to tease him about it. "Looks like the old folks' are giving you guys a run for your money!" she says, her voice carrying on the breeze.

Ava laughs, her eyes sparkling. "Don't let him fool you," she adds. "James here is practically a spring chicken!"

James grins at the compliment, his teeth a stark white against his black skin. "You're not too bad yourself, little missy," he says, giving her a playful nudge.

I couldn't help but check out Rachel. She was the kind of beauty that didn't need to try hard to be noticed. Her long, toned legs and flat stomach were on full display in a neon pink bikini that seemed to glow in the sun. She was flirty and playful, her laughter as bright as her smile. And there was something about the way she looked at James that mystified me. Here was this total knockout hitting on a middle-aged man twice her age with a soft belly. What was his secret?

As the game continued, Rachel's flirting grew bolder. She'd lean over dramatically when setting the ball, giving James a full view of her ass. When she'd jump to hit it, her bikini top would strain against her bouncing breasts. And James was lapping it all up. He'd return her smiles and jibes with a wink and a grin which made her giggle.

Ava noticed too and the first signs of annoyance began to crease her forehead. She'd shoot glances at Rachel that were sharp enough to cut through steel. Yet, the college girl seemed oblivious, lost in her own little game of seduction.

They won the match and Rachel threw her arms around James in a victory hug that lingered too long. Ava's smile froze as Rachel whispered something in James's ear, his eyes widening slightly before he chuckled deeply.

On the other side of the net, Mike stood with his arms crossed, staring at Rachel and James with a glower that could curdle milk. His eyes bore into Rachel's back and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of pity for the guy. Clearly, he had feelings for her, and watching her flirt with a stranger wasn't sitting well. I felt like there was something going on and it was getting awkward.

"Alright, guys, let's call it," Brad announced, his voice cutting through the tension. "It's getting late and we should probably pack up."

The group dispersed as Ava and James made their way back to me, the sand sticking to their skin. Rachel shot James one last smile over her shoulder before turning to leave with her friends. The moment she was out of earshot, Ava turned to him with a raised eyebrow. "So, what was that all about?"

James chuckled, his cheeks still red from the sun and the excitement of the game. "Oh, she's just a playful little thing," he said dismissively. "It's all in good fun."

Ava's eyes narrowed and she turned to me for help. "Is it just me or is she a bit too friendly?"

"Oh, I noticed," I murmured, taking a sip of my beer. "Veeeery awkward."

James smiles, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Don't worry guys. I know how to handle myself around the young ones." He winks, trying to lighten the mood. But Ava's mouth twitches and I know from experience she was not amused.

When we get home, the tension was worse than I thought. Ava is polite to James, serving him dinner with a smile that doesn't quite reach her eyes. The conversation is stilted, and she keeps the conversation between us, mostly about the kids and work. It's clear she's trying to establish some boundaries and I'm torn between feeling grateful for the effort and a bit bad for James because he was now the third wheel. But a part of me was pleased to get the attention from my wife.

After dinner, James retreats to his room while Ava and I sit on the couch, the TV playing some reality show neither of us is really watching. She's curled up in the corner, her arms wrapped around her knees and I can see the wheels turning in her head.

"What's up, Ava?" I finally ask, breaking the silence. "You've been acting weird since we got back from the beach."

Her eyes flicker to me and she takes a deep breath before speaking. "I just don't like the way Rachel was throwing herself at James, that's all," she says, trying to keep her voice light.

"It was just harmless flirting," I reply, trying to soothe the tension. "You know how people are at the beach and how the heat is sometimes."

Ava nods but doesn't look convinced. "Maybe," she says, her eyes returning to the TV. "But it made me think about us. About what you said before."

My stomach drops. Here it comes, the conversation we've been avoiding. "The, uh, open marriage thing?" I ask, my voice low.

Ava nods. "Yeah. Watching James with Rachel... I just don't know if I could handle that kind of situation all the time," she admits, her voice laced with doubt.

The jealous part flickers within me, yet I was curious to see if my uncle and aunt might be right. What if I pass up this chance and come to regret it?

I lean forward, resting my elbows on my knees. "I know it's a lot to take in," I say carefully. "But it doesn't have to be like that. We could set rules, boundaries. It could be a way for us to explore our desires and still come home to each other."

Ava turns to me, her gaze searching. "I don't know, Fin. It just feels so... strange. Like we're opening a door we might not be able to close again."

"I get that," I admit. "But I also think that if we're open about it, if we talk and communicate, we can make it work for us. Maybe it's not what everyone else does, but we're not everyone else. Especially now that I have all these scars on my stomach. But I think you're worried because the ladies love the grizzled warrior look!"

Ava rolls her eyes, but smiles despite herself. "Ugh, you're impossible sometimes, Fin!"

"But that's why you love me," I say, giving her arm a squeeze as she lays her head on my shoulder. "And hey, we don't have to talk about this now. We're here to relax, remember?"

Ava sighs and nods, snuggling closer to me. "You're right," she says, her voice muffled by my shirt. "Let's just enjoy the weekend."

The next day, Ava suggests we go shopping together, leaving James to his own devices. She says she needs a new swimsuit and some beach reads and I'm more than happy to tag along. We drive into the nearby town and our hands are intertwined as we walk through the stores. It was a welcome distraction from all our problems.

In the swimsuit section, Ava holds up a few options, looking for my approval. She tries on a couple of suits and each time she comes out of the dressing room, my heart skips a beat. She's so beautiful, and I feel a renewed sense of possessiveness that surprises me. Maybe it's because Rachel's flirting is still fresh in my mind or maybe it's just because I've missed seeing Ava so playful and carefree.

Finally, she settles on a modest two-piece, a dark green one that complements her eyes. The top has a cute bow detail and the bottoms are a simple boy-short style that still shows off her curves. She looks like a pin-up model from the 1950s and I can't help but feel a twinge of doubt about my open marriage proposal.

We pay for the swimsuit and the books, and as we're walking out of the store, Ava's hand slides into mine. It's a simple gesture, but it feels like a lifeline thrown into a stormy sea.

When we get back, James is lounging on the porch, a beer in hand and a content smile on his face. "How was the shopping spree?" he asks, his eyes glancing over Ava's bags. "Find anything good?"

"Just a new suit and some books," Ava says with a shrug. "How about you, James?"

"Just relaxed, read a bit," he says, gesturing to the book on the chair beside him. "But I was thinking, there's still plenty of sunlight. How about we hit the beach again for a swim?"

Ava's eyes brighten and she nods. "That sounds great," she says, her voice thawing slightly. "Let me just change into my new suit."

We make our way to the beach, the sand warm under our feet. The waves crash against the shore, and the smell of saltwater fills the air. It's not crowded, just a few families scattered along the shoreline. As we approach, Brad and his friends spot us and wave enthusiastically. I notice that it was just the guys.

"Looks like Rachel's not here," Ava says relieved as she flashes a grin at me. "What a shame."

As we approach Brad and his friends, it's clear they've been waiting for Ava. They're sitting on a large beach blanket, passing around a Frisbee, but their eyes are glued to her. One of the guys, Brad, whistles low as she walks towards them. "Damn, Ava, you're looking fine," he says, his gaze lingering on her body.

Ava rolls her eyes, but there's a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Thanks, Brad," she says, her tone a bit more playful. "You're looking like a sunburnt lobster."

The guys laugh and Brad feigns offense, slapping his well-defined chest. "Hey, I've got the complexion of a Greek god!"

"Sure you do," I joke, "And I'm sure Aphrodite is swooning right now."

Ava's laughter fills the air as Brad shakes his head chuckling. "Alright, enough," he says, turning to me with a mischievous grin. "We're going to take a dip, you coming?"

"Nah, I'll stay here and keep an eye on our things," I say, my eyes drifting to the cooler filled with drinks. "I'll catch up with you guys in a bit."

Ava gives me a concerned look, but I shake my head and assure her with a smile. "I want to enjoy the sun for a bit. You go ahead."

The five of them run into the waves, the beach ball bobbing along behind them. Ava's laughter mingles with the boys' playful shouts as they splash around. I watch as Mike jumps to spike the ball, his muscles rippling in the sunlight. Ava jumps in to block it, her breasts bouncing slightly with the movement. Brad and his friends don't miss a beat, their eyes following her every move. It was jarring to see how blatant they were and I was starting to regret not going in.

My phone buzzes in my pocket, pulling me from the momentary distraction. I check my email, expecting more work updates, but instead, I find a notification from the legal team handling the Esmeralda case. The words "convicted of attempted murder" jump out at me. I feel like a huge weight was lifted off me.

As I let out a sigh of relief, Rachel appears out of nowhere, a beach bag slung over her shoulder and a bright smile on her lips. She takes in the scene of Ava playing with Brad and James, the three of them soaking up the sun and laughter. Then she looks at me, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Someone looks pretty happy," she says languidly. "What's got you grinning like a Cheshire cat?"

I hesitate, the email's words echoing in my mind. "Just got some good news," I reply, keeping it vague. Rachel's expression shifts, curiosity piqued. "Oh?" she asks, lowering herself onto the towel beside me. "Do tell."

Her proximity sends a shiver down my spine and I decide to be as nonchalant as possible. "It's about a woman who... uh, stabbed me," I say, watching her eyes widen. "She's been convicted of attempted murder."

Rachel's jaw drops as her hands go to her mouth. "Oh my gosh," she breathes. "She stabbed you?!? What the hell happened?"

I shake my head. "It's a long story," I say, keeping my tone light. "But she's not going to be bothering me anymore."

Rachel's eyes light up with a newfound respect. "Wow, Fin, I had no idea you were such a badass," she says with a teasing smile. "I thought you were more of a square, you know?"

I chuckle, feeling oddly flattered. "Hah! If only you knew," I say, trying to play it cool, "I've got a wild side!"

Rachel leans closer, her eyes dancing with mischief. "Oh, I'd love to see that side," she whispers, her hand brushing against my leg.

My heart skips a beat and I catch myself before her hand can move further. "Whoa, Rachel," I say with a chuckle, gently taking her wrist and moving it away. "That side is strictly for my lovely wife."

Her smile widens and she leans back, her eyes not leaving mine. "Well, you two seem pretty open-minded," she says, her voice with a hint of innuendo. "I'm sure Ava wouldn't mind if you had a little fun."

"We're not that kind of couple," I reply firmly, hoping she'll get the hint. Rachel pouts playfully and I can't help but wonder if she's testing Ava's boundaries or just enjoying the thrill of flirting with a married man. "Speaking of which, what the hell was that yesterday with James?"

Rachel laughs, tossing her dark hair over her shoulder. "What, you don't think I can appreciate a good-looking guy, even if he is a little older?" she asks, her tone playful.

I force a chuckle, trying to keep the conversation light. "It's not that, Rachel. It's just... you guys were getting pretty cozy out there. If you were trying to piss off Mike, it worked."

Rachel laughs, a sound that's more of a purr. "Oh, I know," she says, leaning back on her elbows. "He's so possessive, it's almost cute. But honestly, I was just having fun with James. He's charming, in his own way."

"Yeah," I murmur, watching as James splashes water at Ava, who squeals and ducks. "I know."

Rachel's gaze follows mine, a knowing glint in her eye. "I couldn't help but notice Ava seemed pretty possessive of him yesterday. Is there something going on between them?"

I shake my head, trying to keep the irritation out of my voice. "No, nothing like that," I reply, watching as Ava laughs at something James said. "They're just friends."

Rachel nods, her eyes lingering on Ava and James. "Well, if you say so," she says, her tone filled with doubt.

Brad emerges from the water, his arms wrapping around Ava from behind. She shrieks and giggles as the cold water from his body mixes with the warmth of hers. Their laughter fills the air and I can't help but feel a twinge of jealousy as Brad's hand lingers on her waist. Water droplets glisten on their skin, tracing a path down Ava's neck and back. Her wet hair clings to her face, and I can see her pulse racing as she struggles playfully to get away from him.

Mike then joins them, the three of them splashing and joking, their movements fluid and uninhibited. The waves crash around them, the salty spray misting the air. Ava's skin shines with the moisture and the droplets cling to her eyelashes, giving her a playful, flirty look that I can't ignore. Brad's hand moves from her waist to her side, his thumb brushing against her bare stomach, and I tense up, watching for any sign that she's uncomfortable. But she's laughing, her head thrown back in joy, her breasts bobbing gently with each movement.

Rachel notices my tension and gives me a knowing smile. "It's all in good fun," she says, leaning in closer. "You've got nothing to worry about." She stands up gracefully, her lithe body casting a shadow over me. "Why don't we join them?" she suggests, her hand reaching for the tie of her sundress. "The water's perfect."

My gaze snaps to her and I realize she's wearing a skimpy bikini that leaves little to the imagination. "I'll just stay here," I reply, my voice a little too gruff. "Someone's got to watch our stuff."

Rachel rolls her eyes, her smile never leaving her lips. "Oh, come on, grumpy," she says, her hand on my shoulder. "Alex will watch our stuff. He's probably looking for a chance to sneak a smoke anyway."

I hesitate, but the urge to be with Ava, to stake my claim and remind her who she chose, is too strong. I stand up, pulling my shirt over my head, revealing the jagged scars across my stomach. Rachel's eyes widen and she whistles. She traces one of them with her finger, her touch feather-light. "Wow," she whispers, "that's intense."

"Yeah," I reply, flinching at the contact. "It's a reminder to always love life to the fullest and... not to piss off crazy women."

Rachel laughs, her hand dropping away as she steps back. "Good advice," she says, turning towards the ocean. "But sometimes a little crazy is what makes life interesting, right?"

I follow her into the water, the coolness washing over me and momentarily distracting from the heat building in my chest. Ava's eyes light up when she sees me approach and she swims over to me, her strokes smooth and efficient. "You finally decided to join us," she says, her voice teasing.

"Couldn't let you guys have all the fun," I reply, a smile playing on my lips. "Besides, someone has to save you from these hooligans!"

We all laugh and the rest of the afternoon passes in a blur of waves and splashes, the tension of the past few days slowly dissolving into the sea. The sun starts to dip lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over everything and Brad calls for us to get out of the water. "Alright, party's over," he says, his teeth flashing white against his tan skin. "But before we go our separate ways, how about we all meet up at my place tomorrow evening? We still have a lot of food left over so it can be a nice feast!"

Ava looks at me, her eyes questioning and I nod. It's clear she's enjoying herself and I didn't want to be the one to put a damper on the weekend. We both turn to James and he nods as well. "Sounds good then," she says, her voice cheerful. "We'll bring some dessert!"

We spend the evening lounging around the beach house, the air thick with the scent of the BBQ from earlier. James opens a bottle of wine and we sit around the table, sharing stories from our childhoods and thinking about the good old days. It'd been a long day so we all turned in pretty early to rest for our final full day.

The next morning, we decide to go sightseeing around the island. The three of us pile into the car, the ocean breeze whipping through the windows as we drive along the scenic routes. We visit a lighthouse, the white paint peeling slightly in the harsh sun and a quaint little town with colorful buildings that look like they've been plucked straight out of a postcard. The shops are filled with trinkets and souvenirs, and we spend hours wandering in and out, buying small gifts for ourselves and our friends back home.

As the sun begins to set, we head back to the beach house to get ready for the dinner party at Brad's. We shower and change into fresh clothes, the anticipation of the evening's festivities hanging in the air. I put on a simple polo shirt and board shorts, while Ava opts for a sundress that accentuates her lithe form, leaving her shoulders bare.

James emerges from the other room, wearing a button-up shirt and a pair of shorts. "Looks like we're all dressed to impress!"

We pile into the car and head over to Brad's house, excited to see what was to come. When we arrive, the house is already alive with the sound of music and chatter. The smell of grilling meat wafts through the air, mingling with the faint scent of alcohol.

Brad greets us at the door with a wide smile, gesturing for us to come in. "You made it!" he says, taking our dessert from Ava. "Damn, this looks great. Thanks! Everyone's out back. Alex is already baked and grilling."

I raise my eyebrows and ask Brad if that's a good idea for Alex to be cooking while he's high. Brad just laughs it off. "Don't worry, man," he says, slapping me on the back. "He's a pro. Besides, it's all pre-marinated. How much can he mess up?"

We follow the sound of laughter to the backyard, where the rest of his friends are lounging around the backyard. Rachel is already there, sipping on a margarita, her eyes lighting up when she sees us. She wiggles her way over to us through the crowd, wearing a flowy skirt that billows in the breeze and a tight tank top that leaves little to the imagination.

"You guys look amazing," Rachel says, giving Ava a hug. "But then again, you always do." She winks at James before turning to me. "And Fin, you're looking pretty sharp yourself, Mr. Frankenstein."

I force a chuckle, trying to play it off. "Thanks, Rachel. I guess the scars give me a bit of character."

Ava gives me a scrutinizing look, not expecting us to be this close. I excuse myself to go help Alex with the grilling. The backyard is set up with a large BBQ, the coals glowing a fiery red, and a table laden with food and drinks. Alex, with a blunt in one hand and tongs in the other, waves me over. "Yooook, dude!" He says, slapping me on the back. "Glad you could make it. You want a hit?"

I shake my head. "I'm good, Alex. Thanks. How's the meat looking?"

Alex nods, his eyes glazed over slightly. "Almost there, man. Just a few more minutes and it'll be perfect."

I look at the grill and see that the steaks are indeed not perfect. Some were a little too charred, while others were barely kissed by the flames. I decide to take over, not wanting to risk food poisoning or a BBQ disaster. "Here, let me help you with that. Why don't you take a break?" I say, taking the tongs from his hand. He nods, a bit too eagerly, and I get to work flipping the steaks and burger patties, trying to even out the cooking as best as I can.

I look up to see what everyone was doing. Mike is at the drinks table, mixing cocktails with a flair that suggests he's had some practice. Brad is setting up a cornhole game while Ava, Rachel, and James chat, sitting in the lounge chairs.

Alex stands next to me and blows a big cloud of smoke which mixes with the sweet smell of the grill. "Dude... those ladies are like.. smokin' hot. You and Mike are some lucky guys. How do you do it, man?"

"Well," I say, flipping a steak, "it's all about the seasoning, you know? A little salt, a little pepper, and a whole lot of love." Ava laughs as she approaches us and winks at me. "Fin, you're so cheesy, honey. Alex, why don't you join the others? It looks like Fin's got it under control."

Alex nods, taking one last hit before dropping the blunt into an empty beer can. "Aight, I'll go check on Mike. He's been acting kind of weird."

As he heads towards the drinks table, Ava stops him. "Wait, what's wrong with Mike?"

Alex shrugs. "Just heard them arguing earlier. Didn't catch the details, but it seemed pretty intense."

Ava's smile falters as she taps her lips as her gaze returns to Alex. "Oh no. Poor Mike. Maybe we should go over there, check on him?"

Alex nods thoughtfully. "Yeah, maybe I should take him aside, share a little of this." He holds up his Ziplock bag and shakes the contents.

Ava's eyes widen and she gasps. "Geez Alex! How much did you bring?" She whispers, looking around to make sure no one else heard. "Were you planning to get high all week?"

"Just a little extra, for a little extra fun," Alex grins, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "But if you guys need to talk, I'll keep it cool."

Ava nods as she nudges him playfully. "Good. I'll do the talking. You just look pretty, okay?"

Alex mock salutes her with a grin, his eyes still a bit glazed from his earlier indulgence. They make their way over to Mike, who's standing by the drinks table, his arms folded tightly across his chest. Rachel's eyes follow them, curiosity piqued, but she stays put, sipping on her margarita and watching the interaction unfold from afar.

Brad calls out to Rachel and James, gesturing to the cornhole setup with an overly dramatic flourish. "Come on, you two! Stop sitting around and join me!" Rachel rolls her eyes but sets down her drink, the competitive spark in her igniting. James, never one to back down from a challenge, joins her and the two of them stride over to Brad, who's already holding a bag of bean bags, ready to toss.

As I focus on finishing up the grilling, I catch glimpses of Ava talking to Mike, her hand lightly resting on his back as she leans in to whisper something. Mike's face relaxes slightly and he nods, taking a deep breath. Meanwhile, Alex has plopped down in a chair nearby, his eyes glued to the sky, his mouth moving slightly as if he's having a conversation with the clouds.

Meanwhile, Rachel and James are fully engrossed in their cornhole match, the playful banter flying between them as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the yard. Rachel's skirt flutters as she runs to retrieve a bag and I see that James can't help but watch, his gaze lingering at her long legs. I check and see that the meats are good so I call everyone over for dinner.

As we begin to sit, Ava takes the seat next to James and tells me to sit on his other side, leaving Rachel no choice but to sit next to Mike. Rachel shoots her a look, but Ava ignores her. Rachel sighs and sits down, plucking at her skirt, her eyes darting towards me. I just shrug even though I know my wife was trying to force them to talk.

Dinner is a casual affair, the BBQ spread laid out on the picnic table. The steaks are surprisingly good, and everyone agrees that I've managed to save the day. The conversation flows easily, mostly about the island's history and the best spots to visit.

Mike and Rachel are quieter than usual, sharing glances that seem to carry more weight than the jovial banter around them. I catch Rachel looking at James and Ava a few times, her expression unreadable. Meanwhile, James tries to keep the mood light with stories of college pranks while Brad jokingly takes notes. Alex was just scarfing down his food with no regard for the mess he was making.

After we've cleared our plates, Brad brings out a bottle of whiskey. "For dessert, who's in for a round of shots?" he asks, holding it up triumphantly. Rachel's eyes light up, but I see Mike tense up beside her. "Actually, let's make it fun by playing a game of truth or dare!"

"Shit, Brad, not that again," groans Mike as he rubs his temples. Rachel's smile turns a bit wicked, and I get a sinking feeling that this might not be the best idea. But the group is buzzing with excitement, so I don't protest.

The whiskey bottle makes its way around the table, each of us taking a shot. The fire pit crackles and pops, casting flickering shadows across the group. The first few rounds of truth or dare are tame, mostly dares that involve doing silly dances or telling embarrassing childhood stories.

Rachel's turn comes up and the bottle points at Ava. "Truth or dare?" The tension in the air thickens like the smoke from the grill. "Truth," Ava says, sipping her drink casually, trying to keep her cool. Rachel's eyes gleam. "Who do you think is the best looking guy here? And before you say Fin, he doesn't count."

Ava's cheeks turn crimson as she looks around the table. "Okay, fine. I'll drink." She grabs the whiskey bottle, only to find it empty. Rachel laughs as she rubs her hands together. "Too bad, looks like you're out of luck."

Alex, ever the opportunist, reaches into his pocket and pulls out his bag filled with weed. "How about this instead?" He suggests, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "If you don't want to answer, you can take a hit of this instead. I'll even roll it up for you!"

Rachel's expression shifts from playful to calculating. "Huh, how resourceful of you, Alex. Alright, I dare Ava to tell us who she thinks is the second best looking guy here and if she refuses, she has to take a hit," Rachel says with a smile.

Ava hesitates, her eyes darting between Rachel and the bag of weed. "Ugh, I hate weed. Fine, I'll answer. Besides Fin, I'd say... Brad." The group chuckles and Brad blushes slightly, raising his beer in a toast. "Woooo! Hell yeah!"

The next rounds were subdued and then it was back to Rachel who seemed to enjoy making people uncomfortable. The bottle lands on James. "Your turn. Truth or dare?" James swallows hard, his eyes meeting Ava's for a brief moment before looking back at Rachel. "Truth," he says nervously. Rachel smirks. "Who's hotter? Me or Ava?"

The group goes quiet and my jaw drops. I watch as Ava's eyes widen, and my heart feels like it's gonna burst from my chest. He takes a deep breath, his Adam's apple bobbing. "They're... both beautiful in their own ways," he says carefully, trying to navigate the minefield Rachel has laid out for him. Rachel laughs, throwing her head back. "Oh, come on, James. You can't cheat. Answer the question," she teases.

James's smile turns into a grin, and he reaches for the blunt in Alex's hand, takes a slow drag and then exhales a plume of smoke. "If I have to choose, I'll take this hit instead," he says, his eyes sparkling with mischief as Rachel pouts. James takes the hit, his cheeks hollowing and his eyes watering slightly as he coughs.

Everyone laughs as it continues. The questions become more uncomfortable and the smell of pot wafts through the air. Alex was the next to go and his bottle points to Rachel who chose dare.

Alex, feeling more bold with the weed in his system, slurs out, "I dare... Rachel... to take... off... your top," His words come out slow and deliberate, each syllable hanging in the air like a grenade waiting to drop. Rachel's eyes widen and she giggles. "Haha, my top? My, you are a bold one!"

Mike, who's been sitting quietly, suddenly bolts upright. "What the hell," he says through gritted teeth. "That's not funny."

Rachel rolls her eyes, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Oh please. Smoke a blunt and relax, Mike. It's just a game. Besides, we've seen each other in our bathing suits. It's not a big deal." She turns back to Alex, her voice dropping to a seductive purr. "But if it's a dare you want, it's a dare you'll get."

Her hands glide up to the hem of her tank top, and she pulls it over her head in a slow, deliberate motion. Rachel's torso is a canvas of tanned skin, her abs toned from years of yoga and her breasts cupped in a lacy black bra. She runs her fingers through her hair, shaking it out so that it falls around her bare shoulders in waves. The moon casts a silver glow over her, making her look like a goddess emerging from the sea.

Mike's jaw clenches, but he takes a deep drag from the blunt and says nothing. Rachel's eyes sparkle as she tosses the shirt aside, challenging the group. "Alright, who's next?" she says, her voice a mix of tease and challenge.

The game goes on with the blunt making their rounds, loosening tongues and lowering inhibitions. Even Ava couldn't avoid it as the college kids pressured her. Rachel's daring move has set a new tone for the evening. The guys are getting more boisterous, egging each other on, and the air is charged with a mix of excitement and tension.

Alex goes next and dares Rachel to remove her skirt. She looks at him with a smirk, and then glances at Mike, who's face was surprisingly neutral as the drug dulls his senses. She takes a deep breath and stands up, slowly untying the knot at her waist, letting the fabric drop to her ankles. The cool breeze kisses her bare legs as she steps out of the skirt, now wearing only her black lace lingerie. The guys whoop and cheer as she does a little spin.

Rachel sits back down, crossing her legs, and the game continues. The whiskey bottle makes its way back to Rachel and she grins mischievously as she spins it. The bottle wobbles to a stop, pointing at Ava who picks dare. Rachel's eyes glint with excitement. "Alright, Ava," she says, her voice low and seductive. "I dare you to sit on Brad's lap and pull his shirt over his head."

Ava's eyes widen with shock and she turns to look at me for help. I'm torn. On one hand, I feel a flare of jealousy and anger. On the other, there's a dark, curious desire to see how far Ava was willing to go. I mouth that it was up to her even as my hand clutches the arm of the chair.

Brad sits up straighter, a shy smile playing on his lips as he looks at Ava expectantly. Alex starts chanting loudly, "Do it! Do it!" Rachel laughs, her voice a mix of challenge and excitement. "Come on, Ava, don't be shy," she says, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "It's just a bit of harmless fun. Besides, you said he was hot, right? Don't tell me you're gonna pass up this opportunity.

"I... I don't know... it's not appropriate... I'm married." Ava grumbles as she looks at her feet.

Rachel laughs dismissively as she waves her hand then looks at me. "Fin doesn't have a problem with it, right?"

I gulp. The girl was smarter than I thought and she'd read me like a book back at the beach. "I... I guess. It's like you said, not a big deal. We're just having fun."

The guys seemed surprised as they stare at me. I slurred my words to make it look like I was out of it, but my heart felt like it would burst out of my chest. I made my choice. I have caste the die and now, to see where it goes.

Hearing my words must have pushed her over the fence because Ava abruptly stands up. Her dress flutters around her legs as she moves towards Brad. The young man's breath seems to catch as he exhales to the pace of her steps. Mike's eyes meet mine and I could see something, almost as if he was warning me. Yet, I was addicted to the anticipation.

Instead of straddling him, Ava sits on his lap with her right side facing him. She did this to avoid straddling him, but my wife had to place her arms around his neck to keep her balance.

Rachel's grin widens as she goads Ava. "Aww, fine. Technically that counts as sitting. Now, strip his shirt and make sure you enjoy the view."

Ava sighs as she reachs down to grab the hem of his shirt, yet her hands were shaking. I see Brad lean forward to whisper something into her ear which earns him a slight nod. As her hands move up, more and more of his sun-kissed skin is revealed.

My wife's nerves must have caught up to her because she quickly peels it off Brad's head. His youthful muscles flex as he tosses his shirt to the side. The heat in my body rises as the image of my lovely Ava on Brad's lap is seared into my mind. There was a swell of jealousy which was quickly dwarfed by something else when I see my wife's eyes flicker down to his chest.

"Ok," Ava says hurriedly as she hops off his lap. "I did it. Happy?"

"Hahaha! Oh yeah!" Rachel laughs as she claps her hands. "Hey, don't give me that look, I did you a favor!"

Ava grumbles as she sits down. "Hmph. And before any of you geniuses get any ideas, no repeat dares!"

"Is that right? So, I can't ask you to remove my pants?" James jokes with a hearty laugh. Everyone else chuckles and Ava's mouth twitches into a small smile.

It was Mike's turn and his bottle lands on James. A dark smile crosses his face. I couldn't help, but feel nervous. It was almost too perfect for him to take his revenge. James was smart enough to know this and chose truth.

"Ok, James," Mike starts with some venom in his voice. "What's the worse thing that's ever happened to you?"

"Ah," James says as his tone softens. He fiddled with his hands before replying in more reserved tone. "My divorce... specifically, my kids. You go from one day waking I up to a loving wife and playing with your children to just..."

Ava places her hand on his arm as she hands him a clean napkin. James politely refuses as he says, "Thank you. It was probably for the best, but life just doesn't feel the same sometimes."

It looked genuine enough, but if it wasn't, James was a great actor as he garnered our sympathy. Even Mike grumbles to himself as he sits back in his chair, crossing his arms as his trick doesn't work. Rachel then bets the bottle again and it points at me.

"Shit."

"Oh, come on, Fin. I promise not to humiliate you too much." Rachel quips warmly as she laces her fingers together, pretending to think. "Hmmm, how about this one? Would you... no, have you ever thought about sharing Ava with another guy?"

My wife's back stiffens in her seat as her fists clench. I try to keep my cool because Rachel had her eyes trained on me, peeling me apart with those grey orbs. "What? Psh... no! No, of course not! What kind of question is that? I love my Ava!"

"Uh huh." Rachel says as she smirks. "If you say so, Fin. But it does sort of sound like you're compensating."

"Er..."

Ava suddenly stands up and claps her hands. "Ok, I think we've done this long enough. Why don't we do something else, huh? "

Brad quickly chimes in. "Yeah, we can play some music and chill! My playlist will blow you all away."

"Finally, geez. I never thought it would end," Mike complains as he stands up. His eyes lock onto Rachel in her lingerie. "Now, put your clothes back on."

"Quit being such a wet blanket, Mike. Ugh, weed is supposed to calm you down and you're acting neurotic!"

"Why you-!"

"Whoa, whoa. Calm down you two," James butts in as he stands between them. "We're having fun here so why not just drop it?"

James had the height and weight advantage, but Mike was more stocky and muscular. As his fist clenched, I thought he would swing, but Ava places a hand on his arm before he could wind back. "Hey! Why don't we just cool off over there, Mike? I need a partner to play cornhole with me."

Ava gives me a look, telling me to take care of Rachel which was difficult because the precocious young woman had her arms around James' neck.

"Rachel, what the hell? Are you trying to start a fight?" I hiss at her. "What's gotten into you?"

"What?" Rachel says, feigning innocence. "We're just having a little harmless fun, right James? Mike's the one freaking out over nothing."

I look at James as he uncharacteristically fumbles to respond as the young woman's fingers circle his chest. "Um, yeah... sure."

"Besides, if anyone would understand, it'd be you, Fin. After all those years of being married, doesn't it get boring after a while? Don't you need something to spice it up?"

James has now recovered and nods. "Uh huh. Angela said the same thing to me too."

"Exactly!" Rachel says cheerfully as she pats his chest. "Mike is the one putting our relationship in a box and suffocating me. I'm young and in my prime and he's just so... possessive and lame sometimes."

I was slack-jawed as I tried to find the words to argue. I had to, right? "But Rachel, you guys haven't even talked about it! Relationships are about communicating and coming to a consensus together! You can't just start doing whatever you want!"

The young woman rolls her eyes. "And how do you know we don't communicate? Sometimes people have a different way of expressing themselves. At some point, you just have to do it or else you'll be fifty and look back at your life at what could have been."

James chuckles. "Well, I'm not quite there yet, but I'm not feeling too regretful right now."

I sigh and shake my head. It was no idea with these two. My opinion of James was now low. I glared at him for betraying us, but the two lovebirds don't notice as they laughed at some stupid shared joke.

I grumble to myself as I make my way to Ava and Mike, not looking forward to breaking the bad news. However, I was intercepted by Brad who was dragging Alex's limp body.

"Ah, there you are. Can you help me with this? Alex is out cold."

"Wow, so he has a limit, huh? Does this happen a lot?" I ask as I take his legs into my hands and lift him up.

"Yeah, Alex always has girl troubles because nothing can replace his true love, Mary Jane."

"Huh, you gotta give him credit. At least he's loyal," I reply as we enter the house. Now that we had some privacy, I decide to ask, "So, is Rachel always like this?"

"Hm? Oh," Brad starts as he looks down, debating what he should say. "Well, that's... shit, I probably shouldn't say it, but they were arguing yesterday and I had to play referee. But yeah, Rachel likes to push people's buttons."

"Yeah, I could see that. But that was crazy for her do all that in front of Mike... I'm sorry. If we'd never met, maybe all of this wouldn't be happening."

Brad shakes his head. "Nah, don't be. She probably would have done it with someone else and you guys have been pretty cool."

I smirk as we enter through the bedroom door. "Is that right? So we're not cramping your style."

"Well, when you say it like that, kinda, haha! But hey, I'm not judging. Old people can make some killer steaks," Brad says as he tosses Alex onto the bed. "Better than anything this bum would have come up with."

"Ah, you learn to pick up these things as a dad."

Brad yawns as he stretches his arms. "So that ain't happening anytime soon for me. Don't worry about cleaning up, we'll get that tomorrow. I'm gonna turn in too. I'm fucking pooped from playing diplomat with Mike and Rachel."

"Oh, um, alright. Good night." I reply, my voice trailing off as he trudges down the hallway. Brad must have trusted us a lot if he was leaving us in charge.

"Well, finally! I thought he'd never leave!"

I turn around and see Rachel standing behind me with an amused expression. "Huh? What are you talking about? What's going on?"

The young woman steps towards me as she dips her head forward conspiratorially. "Look, Fin, I need you to go along with this and convince Ava. I promise you'll thank me later, but without your help it won't happen."

I searched her face, trying to get a read on her intentions, but couldn't get anything. "Uh, what? What the hell are you talking about?"

Rachel's eyes flit past me. "Shit, here they come! Just play along. Mike's in it too so just focus on working on your wife."

"Ok, Mike? I still have-"

The door behind us opens and I see Ava walking in with Mike who looked very sullen as he glared at his girlfriend. If he was supposedly in on this thing, it didn't really look like it.

"Ah, there you guys are! We've been waiting for you," Rachel says cheerfully which clearly causes Ava some confusion as she looks at me and says coldly, "We?"

I don't like it. My wife was beginning to glare at me now! Stupidly, I glanced at the young woman right next to me which made Ava even more suspicious. "Uh, y-yeah! You know, we've been talking and I think there's been a misunderstanding."

"Yeah," Rachel starts with a grin as she looks at Mike. "He's been a very bad boy, calling me a whore and a slut yesterday in front of our friends."

Mike looked genuinely annoyed as he blurts out, "You were! What the hell was that with James? You made me look like a fucking loser in front of everyone!"

"But aren't couples supposed to trust each other, Mikey? If you can't do that then why are we even a couple?" Rachel says in a patronizing manner which surprisingly makes Mike a bit sheepish as he looks to the ground. "Are you saying you don't trust me?"

"I-"

"Of course he does," Ava butts in. "But that's not what it's about! In what world is it appropriate for you to be hanging onto James like that?"

Rachel doesn't seem phased as she shoots back, "So if you're in a relationship, you're supposed to ignore attention from other guys? What's wrong with wanting to flirt a little? Do you really think I like James like that?"

"It sure looked that way," Ava retorts as she crosses her arms.

That only makes Rachel smirk more. "Yeah? Well, you didn't seem to have a problem being the center of attention yesterday. Meanwhile, you left your poor husband back so you can hit on some young college guys. Doesn't that make you a hypocrite?"

Ava was taken aback as she stammers, "Wh-what? No... no, it's not like that! Fin told me it was ok and-"

"Hey, I'm not judging, but you did just admit you liked it," Rachel says with a glint in her eyes. "You see, Mike needs to learn a lesson. Women aren't property and we have our own desires. If he can't respect it then there will be consequences. Honestly, he could learn a thing or two from your husband."

Ava was dumbstruck as she looked at Rachel then at me. I didn't say anything because what else could I add? Mike was still a bit chastened as his eyes were glued to the floor.

Rachel continues, "Since you were a bad boy, Mikey. You know what happens next?"

"No..."

"Bad boys have to be punished and I'll need some help from our new friends." She says as she looks at Ava and me. "You guys will help, right?"

My wife shifts her feet, still embarrassed. "I don't know. It seems like something that should be between you guys."

"Nonsense! James has agreed to help and so has Fin!"

My eyebrows raise as I open my mouth to object, but Rachel shoots me a brief look, silencing me. I had no idea what this girl was planning, but a part of me was excited.

I added, "Y-yeah. If it helps with their relationship, why not?"

Ava seemed torn, but my words obviously pushed her over the edge as she sighs. "Fine..."

Rachel then takes out a blunt. "Here. Something to take the edge off first. I got this from Alex's secret stash. It will definitely help us relax."

She passes it around to the three of us as we take a hit. Ava was reluctant, but ultimately decides to follow suit. The moment it hits, I feel the room spin almost immediately. As my vision steadies, it was clear everyone else felt the same effect.

Rachel grabs my shoulder to make sure I was standing up straight. She leans in and whispers, "When we go in the room, help me to tie Mike's arms and legs up in the chair. Not too tight, but enough for him to feel bound."

"What? But why?"

"Trust me, Fin. I knew you were the same as Mike and yesterday confirmed it. I can help Ava open up, but I need you to do as I say."

"I..." A part of me wanted to resist, but that part was either too high to protest or something else was overpowering it. "Ok. Let's do it."

We enter the room to see James seated on the bed. He looks up and his eyes widen as the four of us file in. Mike was a bit wobbly on his feet so I helped him to the chair near the door. Rachel produces some rope and we tie his limbs as he struggles. There was no way he was being serious because he could have easily broken through, especially a gym rat like him.

"Hey! What the hell is the big-mmphh!"

His mouth was stuffed with a ball gag which his girlfriend secures as he fumes incoherently. Rachel grins with satisfaction then stands up and points at him. "Now you stay there like a good boy, babe. And you can take a seat over there, Fin."

I saw a chair that was a couple of feet away and sat down.

"Good! Now, you're with me, Ava!" The young woman said as she grabbed my wife's wrist to drag her to James.

My heart was beating in my chest in anticipation. What exactly did Rachel have in mind? Whatever it was, James seemed to be in the dark as well as he looked at the two ladies standing in front of him.

Rachel claps her hands. "So! I've been talking to James and I couldn't help but feel sorry for the poor guy. Divorced for two years. Away from his kids and normal family life. And I was thinking we both can do something for him."

"Both... both of us?" Ava replies slowly as she stiffens her back nervously.

"Yes, I think this is a two woman job. Since you clearly care about James and his well-being, you're the perfect person to help!"

"H-how? Why... why did you have to tie up Mike? And why is Fin sitting back there?"

"Sshhhh," Rachel coos as she comes up behind her. I was starting to feel the stirring in my groin as I watched this sexy college girl in lingerie whisper into Ava's ear as her hands trail up her body. She then says loudly, "Oh, this dress looks great on you, but we wouldn't want it to get dirty now."

Rachel pushes the strapless dress down as it seamlessly pools to the ground. Ava lets out a gasp as she scrambles to cover her bare chest, but not before James catches a glimpse of her pink nipples.

"H-hey! What... what was that for?" Ava protests weakly as she avoids James' gaze.

"Mmm, don't worry, Ava. You won't need that. Now, your turn."

James was obviously waiting for this because he quickly shoves down his shorts. Ava gasps again as his hard cock swings into view.

"J-James! What are you-?"

Rachel leans down closer as her soft lips tickle Ava's ear. Her hands are languidly stroking my wife's back as her words cause her to relax. She purposely positioned them so that I could see Ava's reaction. Her green eyes, at some point, were drawn to James' lap and I could see the heat rising to her cheeks.

My wife was still hesitant, but Rachel was a real good sweet talker as she slowly guides her closer. James' and my jaw drops as they both kneel down in front of him. Rachel uses her left hand to move Ava's while her right climbs up James' hairy leg. Her tanned ones and my wife's pale ones glided simultaneously towards the big rod which was already at half mast.

"Mmm, isn't he just magnificent?" Rachel says. "He's so long and thick... Mikey could never compare."

For a second I almost forgot he was even here in the room. I look over to see him struggle as he swings his shoulders forward while yelling in the gag.

"Ahhh, tsk, tsk. He's so noisy. But we won't let that ruin our fun," Rachel says as their hands touch the base of James' cock. It twitches which causes the young woman to giggle. "Hah, you're sensitive! Can you feel it, Ava? Feel how hot it is, how hard it's pulsing. It's because of you... and me. He's getting rock solid because of us."

Ava was almost in a trance as Rachel guides her hand along the rod. James was clutching the sheets as he gasps lightly. The two girls were silent, almost as if they were paying their respects to some sacred relic. My wife's eyes were glazed over as she feels the entirety of his length with her fingers.

"There you go. Just look at how good we're making him. It's been years since anyone's done this for you, right?"

James nods. "Your hands feel divine! It's... I don't know of I can control myself when you ladies touch me like this."

"Mmm, he's not lying. Can you feel him twitching? I can see it in your face, you've been curious to see and touch him."

Ava stammers as she can barely get the words out. "No... that's... he's just a friend. I never saw him like that... like this."

"But now you do. Now you're being honest with yourself. You want to do more than this. You want to really make him feel good, right?"

Ava bites her bottom lip as an internal battle rages within her. I watch with bated breath as Rachel goads her expertly. For a second, I thought she would pull back. Then Rachel makes the first move, bending down to kiss the tip of James' cock. He groans as his rod twitches. But the college girl doesn't stop there as her lips travel downwards, peppering the sides of his shaft.

"Mmm, not bad, but I don't know if I can handle this big boy myself. Why don't you help me?"

Rachel doesn't let her answer as she takes the cock in mouth. Her head bobs up and down as she takes in a few inches. Ava was dumbstruck as James leans back and moans lowly.

"W-what are you doing?" Ava whispers, but Rachel's eyes never leave hers as she continues her rhythmic bobbing.

"Showing you what it's like to really take care of a man," Rachel murmurs, her words muffled by the cock in her mouth. She pulls back, her lips glistening with saliva and a wicked smile playing on them. "You want to try?"

Ava's eyes dart to me and I was dumbstruck. Was this really happening? Was I really going to let her do this? Rachel notices the glance and winks at me before turning back to Ava. "Don't worry about him or anyone else. This is between the three of us: me, you, and James."

Slowly, Ava nods and Rachel pulls away from James' cock, offering it to my wife like a delicate gift. She hesitates for a moment, her hand still covering her chest, but Rachel's encouragement and the potent weed seems to have done its job. Ava's hand reaches out and lightly brushes James' shaft, then her thumb traces the tip before her mouth opens and she takes it in.

My heart races as I watch Ava's cheeks hollow out as she sucks the thick head of James' cock. Rachel's eyes gleam with triumph and she whispers something else to her that I can't hear. I can see the doubt and hesitation in Ava's eyes as she tries to accommodate for the size, but Rachel's touch on her cheek seems to soothe her. I've never seen Ava look so... so... willing... so entranced.

The sight was like nothing I could've ever imagined. Rachel's hand sliding down James' shaft to cup his balls as Ava takes inch after inch of him into her mouth. Rachel's other hand caressing Ava's hair as James' hand grabbed a fistful of it. His eyes were closed as his face contorted into a mix of pleasure and disbelief.

"Mmph! Yes, yes, just like that," Rachel whispers as she watches the two of them. "Look at how good she's doing, James. You're so lucky to have us, aren't you?"

James nods, his eyes fluttering open to meet Rachel's gaze. "Fuck yes," he groans, his voice strained with pleasure. Rachel giggles. "Of course. If you think that's great..."

Without warning, Rachel shifts to the side and kisses Ava deeply. Their tongues intertwine around James' cock, sharing his taste. It's a sight that would make any man's knees weak and it does the same to me. Rachel's hand moves from Ava's hair to her bare shoulder, guiding her in a silent rhythm that their mouths follow.

The air in the room is thick with the scent of arousal and pot as the two of them worship James' dick, taking turns to suck and kiss the tip. Ava's eyes water slightly from the effort, but Rachel's encouraging whispers spur her on, making her push her boundaries further. Rachel's other hand fondles her own breast, pinching the nipple lightly, lost in the moment.

I can see the lust building in James' eyes as he watches the two of them. Rachel's plan is working. She's turning Ava into a willing participant in this twisted little play she's orchestrated. And fuck me if it isn't the hottest thing I've ever seen! My hands were rubbing the front of my shorts. I can't believe my demure Ava would even do this. Maybe this was a weed dream, but I didn't want it to stop. I was addicted.

Rachel whispers something to Ava again and my wife nods, understanding what's about to happen. Rachel sits back and watches as Ava takes over, her mouth moving faster and faster. James' moans grew louder, his hips bucking slightly as Ava's hand starts to work the base of his cock. I see the muscles in his thighs tense and know what's coming. Rachel declares loudly for mine and Mike's benefit. "Cum for us, James. Show us how much you appreciate us."

Ava's eyes widen with surprise but Rachel's hand is there, pressing her down harder onto James' cock. He groans, his whole body stiffening as he shoots a hot load into my wife's mouth. Rachel claps her hands together with glee as Ava pulls back, a string of cum connecting her lips to James' tip. Rachel leans in and kisses her again, sharing James' seed between them.

I can't believe what I'm seeing. Rachel had somehow convinced my wife to suck off another man in front of me. Mike's eyes are bulging out of his head and his muffled sounds of protest have turned into ones of arousal. Rachel pulls away from Ava, grinning widely. "Good job," she says, stroking Ava's cheek. "You're a natural."

My wife's eyes are glazed over, her cheeks flushed as she spits out the discharge. Rachel's hand moves to the back of her neck, keeping her in place as she leans in for another kiss. This time, it's slower, more intimate. I can feel my own cock straining against my pants as I watch the two of them. Rachel breaks the kiss and stands up, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand.

James' cock is still half hard despite his age. She gives it a final lick, then turns to Ava, who's still on her knees, looking lost. Rachel takes her hand and pulls her to her feet, leading her over to the bed. "Lie down," Rachel says softly. "Let James show you how much he appreciates your help."

Ava hesitates, her eyes darting to me and then to Mike, who's now rocking back and forth in his chair, his cock straining against his boxers. Rachel notices and laughs, walking over to him and yanking down his shorts. His cock springs out, red and angry looking. "You're going to watch," Rachel says to him, stroking his cock. "And maybe, just maybe, if you're a good boy, I'll let you cum."

Back on the bed, James takes control of the situation, his dark hands caressing Ava's pale thighs as he leans down to kiss them. The contrast is stark and erotic, the softness of his kisses against the tension in the room. His tongue trails up her legs, sending shivers up her spine. Rachel watches with a smirk, clearly enjoying the power she holds over us. "Look at him, Fin. Look at him worshipping your wife."

I can't deny that the sight is arousing, my cock now painfully hard in my shorts. Rachel notices and saunters over to me, her naked body on full display. "You can take it out," she whispers, her breath warm against my ear. "You're allowed to enjoy the show."

I don't need further prompting. I unzip my pants, freeing my erection as Rachel goes back to watching James and Ava. James is now between Ava's legs, kissing his way up her inner thighs. Ava's eyes are closed, her breathing shallow, as Rachel sits on the bed beside them, playing with her breasts.

"Look at how wet she is for you," Rachel says to James, spreading Ava's folds for him. "You've done such a good job getting her ready."

James smirks up at Rachel before his mouth descends on Ava's pussy. She gasps, her back arching off the bed as his tongue licks and teases her clit. Ava's eyes dart to me again, seeking reassurance, but Rachel's grip on her thighs keeps her pinned to the mattress, unable to look away from the man feasting on her.

"Relax, Ava," Rachel coos, her voice like velvet in the hazy room. "Let him make you feel good."

But Ava's not listening. Her eyes are squeezed shut, her breaths coming out in short gasps as James' skilled tongue dances over her folds. She tries to form words of protest, but they're lost in the symphony of pleasure that's overtaking her body. "N-no... this isn't right... I... I'm married..."

James doesn't let up, his tongue swirling around her sensitive bud, feeling her quiver against his mouth. Rachel chuckles, her eyes shining with excitement as she watches the scene unfold. "It's okay, Ava," she says soothingly. "You're just exploring. You're allowed to enjoy yourself."

But Ava's protests grow stronger, her body tensing as she feels an orgasm building. "N-no... I can't... I shouldn't..."

Her voice is barely a whimper, lost in the symphony of James' licking and Rachel's soothing words. My ears strain to hear what was being said. Rachel's hand moves from Ava's thigh to her chest, her thumb brushing over a nipple. "You can, Ava. You can. Just let it happen."

And then, it does. Her body goes rigid, her eyes fly open and she cries out, a mix of pleasure and guilt. "Oh, no... I'm... I'm cumming!" Rachel's mouth is right there to muffle the sound as she kisses her deeply. The room seems to spin around me as I watch, my own hand moving faster on my cock. Rachel pulls away, a smug look on her face, watching as James' mouth continues to work her over, drawing out every drop of pleasure. I couldn't take it anymore and I grunt as ropes and ropes of my own discharge fly into the air.

"Look at her, Fin," Rachel says, turning to me with a sly smile. "Isn't she beautiful when she lets go?"

Ava's body is still shaking with the aftershocks of her orgasm, her chest heaving as Rachel strokes her cheek. James looks up, his mouth and chin glistening with my wife's juices. Rachel's eyes are alight with something... satisfaction? Power? I'm not sure, but it sends a thrill down my spine.

"Good boy," Rachel says to James, her voice a purr. "Now let's give Ava a break, okay? She needs to catch her breath. Why don't you put that mouth to good use over here?"

James' eyes widen slightly as Rachel straddles his face, her pussy hovering above his mouth. He opens his mouth obediently, and Rachel lowers herself onto him with a gasp. She starts to grind her hips in a slow, sensual motion as she watches Ava, who's still lying on the bed, trying to compose herself. Rachel's hand reaches out to caress Ava's cheek, her thumb tracing the line of her jaw. "You okay?" she asks, her voice still filled with that seductive edge.

Ava nods, her eyes still glazed over. Rachel winks at me and then turns her attention back to James. She starts to ride his face with more urgency, her moans filling the room. Mike's eyes are glued to the scene, his own cock still rock hard despite his predicament. Rachel's hand moves to her own chest, playing with her pink nipple as James' tongue works its magic.

"Alright, Ava," she says, her voice breathless as Rachel rides James' face. "Time for your next task. Go untie Mike's hands. He's been such a good boy, watching us without interrupting so his arms get a break."

Ava's movements are slow and deliberate as she sluggishly rises from the bed, the haze of the weed and Rachel's persuasion guiding her. She walks over to Mike, whose eyes are wide with a mix of excitement and fear. Rachel's hand reaches out to grip the back of James' head, pushing him deeper into her wetness.

As Ava unties the ropes, Mike's gaze lingers on her breasts, bouncing slightly with her steps. She's a vision of vulnerability, her nipples pebbled and her skin flushed from the recent orgasm.

Once free, Mike's first instinct is to rip his shirt open, revealing a young, muscular body that's been honed from countless hours at the gym. His abs ripple as he takes a deep breath, filling the room with the sound of tearing fabric. Ava's eyes widen as she takes in the sight of his bare chest, the defined muscles flexing with every breath he takes.

With surprising strength, he pulls Ava into a standing position, her legs unsteady from the rush of blood to her head and the lingering effects of the orgasm. He turns her to face me, his hand on the small of her back, and without a word, he sits her sideways on his lap. His erection juts out between her legs, the head nestled in the crevice of her thighs.

Mike's hand is like a vise on my wife's thigh, his grip tightening as he brings her closer to his cock. Ava's eyes widen with shock and she tries to push herself away, but his arms hold her in place. "Mike, no! What are you doing?" she stammers.

I'm torn between horror and arousal as I watch him. This isn't part of the plan, I assume. Yet, the sight of him asserting his dominance over the situation is strangely thrilling. Ava's breasts are heaving, her nipples erect and flushed from the recent pleasure she's experienced.

But Rachel was oblivious. With a sudden cry, she straddles James on the bed, her legs wrapping around his waist as she takes his cock inside her. Her breasts bounce with each thrust, her head thrown back in ecstasy. James' eyes are wide with shock, but Rachel's grip on his shoulders is unyielding.

"Oh, James," Rachel moans, her voice dripping with desire. "Fuck, you're massive..."

Her words echo through the room, and I feel a strange mix of arousal and jealousy as I watch James' big, black cock disappear into Rachel's tight pussy. It's a sight that's both mesmerizing and intimidating. Rachel's eyes roll back in her head as James' thick shaft stretches her to the brink, her moans growing louder with each thrust. The sound of skin slapping skin fills the room, punctuated by Rachel's gasps of pleasure.

But my focus returns to Ava and Mike. Ava's eyes are glued to Rachel and James, her expression a blend of shock, arousal, and betrayal. She hasn't noticed that Mike has somehow managed to work the ball gag out of his mouth. His eyes are narrowed, and a smug smile plays on his lips as he whispers something in Ava's ear. Her eyes widen, and she starts to struggle, but Mike's arms are like steel bands around her waist, holding her in place.

"Mike, stop!" Ava gasps, but her voice is lost in the symphony of Rachel's moans and the slap of flesh against flesh as Rachel rides James, who reaches up to squeeze her breasts.

Mike takes the opportunity to slip his hand between Ava's legs, his fingers playing with her clit as she squirms in his lap. Her cheeks are flushed, and she's biting her lip to keep from making a sound. Rachel's show is turning her on despite herself, and Mike knows it as he turns her body to face away from him. He starts to thrust his hips upward, grinding his cock against her ass as his other hand reaches around to fondle her breasts.

"Mike, please," Ava groans, her voice strained. "We can't do this."

But Mike is relentless. He pulls back on her red hair, exposing her neck. "Mike, no," she protests, her voice a mix of fear and arousal. But it's clear that Mike isn't in the mood for protests anymore. He captures her chin, turning her face to him and kisses her neck, his tongue tracing a fiery path up to her ear. Ava's body responds despite herself, arching slightly backward, pushing her breasts against his hands as his kisses grow more insistent.

Their eyes meet and for a split second, I see the war raging within her: the fear of betrayal, the thrill of the taboo, and the undeniable attraction to the situation she's been forced into. Then, without warning, Mike's mouth is on hers. The kiss is deep, hungry, and possessive. His tongue invades her mouth as his hand squeezes her breast firmly. Ava's eyes widen and she gasps against his lips as she tries to fruitlessly pull away. Yet, the passion quickly overtakes her and I watch with trepidation.

For a few seconds, they're lost in each other, their bodies moving in a silent dance of passion. Mike's hand slides down Ava's heaving stomach. His fingers find her wetness, and he groans into her mouth. Ava's hands come up to tangle in Mike's hair, pulling him closer. But then she remembers herself, and with a sudden jolt of reality, she pushes his face away, breaking the kiss.

"Mike, no!" she protests harshly. "We can't do this."

But he's beyond listening. His hand is a vice around her waist, and before I can even process what's happening, he's lifted her up and slammed her down onto his cock. Ava's eyes widen with shock, and she gasps as Mike's full length stretches her. She's so wet, so primed from James' mouth and Rachel's encouragement, that he sinks into her with ease despite his girth.

I'm frozen in place, my hand still wrapped around my own cock, as Mike starts to fuck my wife in earnest. Her legs are spread wide, and her feet are barely touching the floor as he uses her body to satisfy his own desires. Rachel's moans have turned into screams now, her nails digging into James' shoulders as she rides him with wild abandon. The room is a cacophony of sounds: Rachel's cries, the slap of flesh, the wet sounds of Mike and Ava's bodies colliding.

Ava's eyes are closed, her face a mask of pleasure and pain. She's trying to keep her voice down, but it's clear she can't hold back anymore. Mike's rhythm is unyielding, his grip on Ava's hips tight as he drives into her over and over.

"Mike, please," she stammers, her voice shaking. "This isn't right. I'm married and you have a girlfriend."

Mike doesn't say a word, but his eyes tell the story of a man who's lost all inhibitions. He leans in and captures Ava's mouth with his own, silencing her protests with a deep, possessive kiss. Their bodies rock together in a dance that's as old as time, their skin slick with sweat. Despite the chaos of the situation, the way they move together is eerily synchronized, as if they've been doing this for years.

I'm transfixed by the sight of my wife's body pressed against Mike's muscular frame. He's younger than Ava by a decade, but the way they fit together, it's like they were made for this moment. His arms flex as he holds her in place, her breasts bouncing with each hard thrust. Ava's hands grip the chair tightly, her nails digging into the fabric as she tries to maintain some semblance of control.

But Rachel's performance on the bed is equally captivating. She has her eyes squeezed shut, lost in the sensation of James' cock pounding into her. Her abs ripple with every downward motion, her tits bouncing in a mesmerizing rhythm that matches the slap of their bodies. Rachel's expression is one of pure concentration, her mouth parted as she gasps for air, her cheeks flushed with arousal.

James' powerful thrusts hit Rachel's g-spot with unerring precision, and she starts to buck wildly, her body betraying her own control. She cries out, her voice high-pitched and desperate and I watch in amazement as Rachel's orgasm rips through her. Rachel's nails dig into James' shoulders, leaving red trails as she rides the wave of pleasure that crashes over her.

And then, as if Rachel's release is a trigger, Ava's body starts to quiver. Her eyes roll back in her head, and she throws her head back, letting out a muffled scream that's lost in the sounds of Rachel's cries. Mike's grip tightens on her hips, and he fucks her harder, pushing her towards another climax.

Mike's rhythm doesn't falter, his hips pistoning up into her with a ferocity that makes me clench my fists. I want to stop it, but I'm too aroused to move. And then, with a final, desperate whimper, Ava's orgasm hits her like a tidal wave. Her entire body goes rigid, her back arching as she cums on Mike's cock again.

It's then that Rachel's voice cuts through the room like a knife, her eyes snapping open. "Mike, no," she says, her tone firm, almost like a mother scolding a child. "You were NOT allowed to fuck Ava."

Mike freezes mid-thrust, his eyes widening slightly in surprise. Rachel starts walking towards them. "I said you could watch," she says, her voice low and dangerous. "Not participate."

Ava takes advantage of Mike's momentary shock, pushing herself off him. She stumbles away, her legs wobbly. "I-I'm sorry," she whispers, her eyes darting to me. "I didn't mean to..."

But Rachel is already there, her arms wrapping around Ava's naked body. She whispers something soothing in Ava's ear and I see my wife's tension ease slightly. Rachel's eyes are on Mike, a warning in their depths. "It's okay," she says firmly. "It's all part of the experience."

Mike's cock is still rock hard, a bead of precum glistening on the tip, but Rachel's words cut through the haze of lust like a cold knife. He looks up at her, his expression a mix of confusion and desire. "But Rachel..."

Rachel doesn't let him finish. She strides over to the chair, her hips swaying with authority. "You know the rules," she says, her voice like a whip crack. "You watch, you don't touch."

Mike's eyes are wide with a mix of fear and arousal as Rachel reaches into the box of toys she'd brought earlier. She pulls out a set of leather cuffs and a ball gag. Rachel's smile is cold as she secures the cuffs around Mike's wrists, tightening them until he winces. Then she grabs the gag, pushing it back into his mouth with a firm hand. She fastens the strap behind his head, the plastic ball stretching his cheeks as he tries to protest.

"You're going to watch, and you're going to learn," Rachel says, her voice a seductive purr as her index finger trails down his cheek. "You're going to see what happens when you don't play by the rules."

With that, Rachel turns away from Mike and guides a trembling Ava back to the bed. Rachel's hand is firm on her shoulder, steering her back to James' waiting form. James watches them with a mix of curiosity and lust, his cock still standing tall despite Rachel's recent attention to it.

Rachel's touch is gentle as she coaxes Ava to lie down beside James, her hand trailing down Ava's spine, sending shivers through her body. Rachel whispers sweet nothings in Ava's ear, her breath hot and moist. My wife licks her lips, her eyes flicking to James' cock, still standing proudly. Rachel seems to read her mind and gives a knowing smile, her hand moving to wrap around James' length.

"Let's make this good for you," Rachel murmurs to James, her eyes never leaving Ava's. She starts to stroke him with a practiced hand, her grip firm and sure. Ava watches, her own hand moving to her clit, the need for release still gnawing at her. Rachel's eyes narrow and she nods with approval, her movements on James' cock growing faster.

They help James take off his shirt, his hairy chest and rounded belly coming into view. The sight is strangely alluring in the dimly lit room, a stark contrast to the lean, muscular physique of the young man Ava just fucked. Rachel runs her hands over James' chest, her nails scraping lightly against his skin. His eyes close in pleasure, and he groans, his cock twitching in Rachel's hand.

Ava's hand is more tentative, her fingers tracing the soft fat of his stomach in a way that was sensual and, strangely, intimate. My wife's hand moves lower, her fingertips grazing the base of his cock, feeling the pulse of his arousal. Rachel's hand is there too, both of them stroking him in a mesmerizing rhythm. James' eyes are hooded, his breathing heavy as he surrenders to the pleasure.

James' eyes then opens and he looks at Ava, his gaze filled with a gentle hunger. He leans in, his lips brushing hers and she gasps at the sudden contact. Unlike Mike's rough, claiming kiss, James' is tender, almost reverent. His hand cups her cheek, his thumb tracing her bottom lip as he deepens the kiss. Ava's hand falters for a moment and I can see her mind is racing with a tornado of thoughts. I also knew she would give in.

James' kiss grows more insistent, his tongue probing hers as if searching for something deeper. Rachel's hand slides away from James' cock, giving Ava full reign. She sits back on her heels, her own chest rising and falling rapidly as she watches the scene unfold before her.

James' large, round body then rolls on top of Ava's slender frame. I was afraid he would squish her, but his arms propped him up as he kisses Ava with a gentle urgency, his full lips pressing against hers, his tongue seeking and exploring the depths of her mouth. Ava's hand continues to stroke him, her movements tentative at first but growing more confident with Rachel's encouragement.

Then Rachel breaks the spell, sliding off the bed with the grace of a feline. She approaches me with a wicked grin, her eyes gleaming with the excitement of a puppeteer who's just mastered a complex maneuver. Her breasts and hips sway slightly as she walks, the sight of her naked form making my cock throb with anticipation. She stops in front of me, her hand reaching out to cup my cheek.

"Looks like you're enjoying the show," Rachel whispers, her voice a seductive purr. Her thumb traces the line of my jaw, her eyes holding mine as she assesses my reaction. "Unlike my boyfriend over there," she says with a nod towards the bound and gagged figure in the chair. "You've been so good, Fin. So much better than him."

The anticipation is like a coil winding tight in my stomach as Rachel has me stand. She steps behind me, her naked body pressing against my back, her breasts smoothing against my spine. Her hands come up, her nails scraping lightly against my chest before she grabs the hem of my shirt. With a swift, almost violent motion, she pulls it over my head, leaving me shirtless as her other hand pushes down my pants.

Her hands then trace the contours of my body, her fingertips dancing along the lines of my stomach scars, the muscles of my back tightening under her touch. I can feel her breath on my neck, the heat of her skin against mine, as she whispers in my ear. "You're going to watch James as he slides into your wife," she says, her voice low and seductive. "You've been waiting all weekend for this haven't you?"

I nod, my voice barely above a whisper, my body trembling with a mix of fear and excitement. Rachel's hand slides down further, wrapping around my cock as she strokes it with a firm, confident grip. She then leads me closer to the bed for a better view. My eyes are glued to the sight of James' almost obscene member pressing against Ava's pink, swollen pussy.

Ava's eyes are wide with anticipation, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she watches James position himself. Rachel's hand never leaves my cock, her grip tightening as she whispers, "Look at her, Fin. Watch her face as he enters her."

James' cock presses against Ava's opening and Rachel's hand guides it in, the slickness of her juices making it slide easily. Rachel's eyes are on me, watching my reaction as James starts to push into Ava. Ava's eyes squeeze shut, her body tensing. Rachel whispers something in her ear, and she relaxes slightly, allowing him entry. The sight of him sliding into my wife is surreal, a mix of arousal and betrayal coils in my gut as the reality of what was happening fires through my neurons.

Ava's voice is tight with tension. "Is he going to... fit?" she asks, her voice trembling. Rachel laughs softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Oh, he'll fit," she says, her voice dripping with confidence. "You're definitely soaking wet. Just relax, Ava. It'll be good, I promise."

James looks at Ava with a gentle smile, his eyes filled with understanding. He leans down and kisses her softly, whispering something in her ear that makes her cheeks flush. Rachel's hand is still wrapped around my cock, stroking it firmly as she watches James' slow, careful penetration.

"Look at him, Fin," Rachel murmurs as she leans towards me, her breath hot against my neck. "He's going to take good care of Ava."

I swallow hard, my eyes glued to the sight of James' thick, black cock disappearing centimeter by centimeter into Ava's tight hole. She gasps as he stretches her, her eyes squeezed shut. Rachel's hand continues to stroke me, her movements growing more insistent with every inch James claims.

"Keep watching," Rachel whispers, her voice a dark caress. "See how much she enjoys it."

I can't tear my eyes away from the scene before me even if I tried. Ava's body tenses as James fills her completely, his cock only halfway in.

"Breathe, Ava," Rachel instructs, her voice soothing. "You can do it."

Ava nods, her chest rising and falling rapidly with each shallow breath she takes. James starts to move, his cock sliding out of her with torturous slowness before plunging back in, deeper this time. Ava's gasp fills the room, her eyes widening as she takes it. Rachel's hand on my cock mimics the rhythm of James' thrusts and I can't help but feel a strange and perverse kinship with him.

"Oh, damn," Ava whispers, her voice breathless. "It's so... big." Rachel's laughter is low and rich, a sound that sends a shiver down my spine. "Tell me how it feels, Ava," she instructs, her voice a sultry command.

Ava's cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and arousal. "It's... it's like nothing I've ever felt before," she stammers. "So full, so... stretching." Her voice is soft, but the intensity behind her words is unmistakable.

James' voice is a low rumble, his words a gentle caress in the quiet room. "Just relax, sweetheart," he murmurs, his deep tone soothing. "Let your body adjust to me." His hips roll in a smooth rhythm, his cock moving in and out of Ava with a patience that seems to defy the urgency of his need.

Ava's body starts to quiver, her legs tightening around James' waist as he continues to thrust into her with a measured rhythm. Rachel's other hand moves up, sliding to cup Ava's breast, her thumb teasing the sensitive nipple. Ava arches her back, her moan a symphony of pleasure and pain as Rachel's touch sends a jolt of sensation through her body. Rachel's voice is a siren's call, guiding her to the edge. "That's it," Rachel whispers, her voice filled with a mix of satisfaction and excitement. "You're almost there."

"Look at her, Fin," she continues, her voice a seductive purr. "Look at how much she's enjoying herself. How much she needs this."

Her words hit me like a wave of heat, making my cock throb with the intensity of my own desire. Rachel's hand on my shaft moves with purpose as James continues to fuck Ava with a steady, deep rhythm.

I watch as James' muscles tense with each stroke, his face a mask of concentration as he works to give Ava what she needs. Rachel's eyes are on me, challenging me to break the spell, but I can't. The sight of Ava's body writhing beneath him is too much, her gasps and whimpers a symphony of pleasure that I'm unable to ignore. Rachel's hand moves faster on my cock, her fingernails digging into my skin as she whispers, "Tell me, Fin, are you going to let her cum?"

The question hangs in the air as the college girl challenges me to surrender. My hand moves to cover Rachel's, stopping her strokes. "I want to," I say, my voice hoarse. "But..." Rachel's hand slips away, leaving me aching and unsure.

Her eyes narrow, and she leans in, her voice a sultry whisper. "But what, Fin?" She traces a line down my chest with her nails, her touch sending shivers through me. "Tell me what you want."

I hesitate for a moment, torn between the desire to claim Ava for myself and the thrill of watching her be taken by someone else. Rachel seems to sense my inner struggle and leans closer, her breasts brushing against my arm. "Say it," she urges, her breath warm and sweet. "Do you want her to cum for him?"

The question hangs in the air. Rachel's hand moves to my cock again, her grip firm and sure as she waits for my reply. I look at Ava, her face a canvas of ecstasy and desperation. Who was I to deny her this pleasure?

"Yes," I finally say, the word ripped from my throat. Rachel's smile widens, and she nods in approval. "Good boy."

Her other hand moves over to caress Ava's face. Ava's eyes are half-lidded, her breath hitching as Rachel's thumb brushes against her cheek. Rachel's touch is featherlight, but it's enough to make Ava's body react, her hips rising to meet James' thrusts. Rachel leans in and whispers something in Ava's ear, and Ava's eyes fly open, meeting mine again.

"Please," Ava gasps, her voice a desperate plea. Rachel chuckles, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Please what, Ava?" she asks, her voice a taunt.

Ava's cheeks burn, her eyes darting between me and James. She bites her bottom lip, the words caught in her throat. Rachel's hand leaves Ava's face and travels down to her clit, her fingers circling with a maddening precision. Ava's hips jerk upward, her legs shaking. "Please... let me... cum," she stammers out.

Rachel's eyes narrow and she looks at me, a silent question in her gaze. I nod as I feel myself lose control. "You can, Ava," she says, her voice a seductive purr. "Come for him. Show Fin what a good little slut you are."

The words are like a spark, igniting the fire within Ava. Her eyes roll back and she starts to buck her hips in time with James' strokes. Ava's orgasm crashes over her like a wave, her body convulsing under James' weight, her cries of pleasure echoing through the room. Rachel's eyes never leave mine, her own arousal clear as she watches the effect of her words on my wife.

James' rhythm falters for a moment, his eyes widening in surprise at Ava's sudden release. "Looks like she enjoyed that," Rachel says, her voice a low murmur. "But we're not done yet."

Her eyes are on Ava's face, watching the play of emotions as she rides out her orgasm. Rachel then leans in, her mouth close to my ear. "You want more, don't you?" she asks, her voice a seductive whisper. "You want to see her cum again?"

I nod, my breath coming in ragged pants as I watch Rachel's hand move back to Ava's clit. Rachel's eyes flick to mine, a smug satisfaction in them as she starts to rub Ava's swollen bud again. Ava's body responds almost immediately, her hips jerking as the pleasure starts to build again. Rachel's hand moves faster, her thumb circling Ava's clit with an expert touch that makes Ava's breath catch in her throat.

"Good," Rachel murmurs, her voice a dark promise. "Now, James, lie back." James complies, his chest heaving as he lays back on the bed, his cock standing tall and proud. Rachel's eyes never leave mine as she instructs, "Ava, straddle him. You know you want to."

Ava's eyes are filled with a mix of lust and trepidation as she swings her legs over James' hips, her pussy hovering above his thick shaft. Rachel's fingers are slick with James' precum and she uses it to lubricate the way as Ava lowers herself onto him.

"Oh, guuuhh," Ava whispers, her voice trembling as she takes James in, her pussy stretching around him. "You feel much bigger in this position."

Rachel's smile is wide as she watches Ava's face contort with the sensation. "Don't worry. You can handle it. Just go slow." Ava nods. She starts to move, her hips rocking back and forth, her pussy taking James' cock inch by inch.

Mike watches from his chair, his eyes glued to the scene before him, his cock throbbing wildly. Rachel glances at him, a smug smile playing on her lips, before turning back to me. "Look at him," Rachel scoffs loudly. "So pathetic."

Mike's eyes widen and I can see the embarrassment in his gaze. Rachel's hand is still on my cock, her grip tightening as she backs away from the bed. She moves with a sensual grace that makes my knees feel like jelly. Rachel's breasts sway as she steps closer to me, her nipples hard and pebbled from the cool air of the room.

Her ass is a perfect heart-shape, the kind that makes you want to grab and squeeze. Rachel's skin is golden in the soft light and firm in all the right places. She turns away from me, her eyes dark with desire as she leans back against my chest. I can feel her heart racing, the beat matching the tempo of my own as I look down at her.

Mike's eyes are wide with shock and arousal, watching Rachel's naked body press against me. Rachel reaches back, her hand wrapping around my cock and pulls me closer, until my shaft is nestled between her thighs. She starts to grind against me, her movements deliberate and teasing as she watches Mike's reaction.

Her other hand reaches up, her nails scraping lightly against my stomach before finding my hand. She guides it to her chest, her skin hot and slick with sweat. Her breasts are heavy and firm, her nipples erect and begging for attention. "Play with them for me."

I was in shock, but my body reacts instinctively. My fingers close around her nipples, rolling and pinching them gently as Rachel starts to grind against my cock with more urgency. She's wet and slippery, my shaft sliding along her folds, teasing her clit with every movement. The sounds of our bodies moving together fill the room, mingling with Ava's moans as she slowly rides James' cock. Rachel's breath comes in shallow gasps as she rocks against me, her eyes half-lidded with lust.

Mike's eyes are wide, his cheeks flushed as he watches Rachel's brazen display of sexual dominance. Rachel leans back, her hair brushing against my chin as she smirks at him, her voice a taunting whisper. "You like watching, don't you, Mikey?" she says, her voice thick with arousal. "You like watching while I take control of everything. But you've been very bad. I never said you could fuck Ava so now I'll have to punish you even more."

Her words hit Mike like a slap, his eyes flickering with a mix of fear and excitement. Rachel's hand moves to the side of my neck, her nails digging in just enough to make me gasp. She turns her head, her lips brushing against my ear. "You're going to fuck me while her watches," she whispers, her breath hot against my skin.

The reality of the situation crashes over me. I was really going to fuck her in front of Ava? Yet the atmosphere and the moment was too intense for me to resist. Rachel's hand guides my cock to her slick opening and she starts to lower herself onto me. The sensation is indescribable, her pussy tight and wet, her heat enveloping me as she takes me in. I try to stifle my groan as her warmth envelops me like a glove.

"Look at him, Fin," Rachel whispers, her voice a dark seduction. "Look how much he wants to be in my place." I can feel her body tense against mine, her muscles gripping my cock as she slides fully on me, her movements slow and deliberate. "But he can't have this. Only you and I can share this moment."

Ava's moan turns into a gasp as James sits up, his hands on her hips as he starts to bounce her up and down on his cock. His face is a mask of concentration and lust, his eyes locked onto my wife as he speaks. "Look at you," James says, his deep voice filled with a newfound confidence. "Look at how much of a slut for my cock."

Rachel's grip on my neck tightens as she watches, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction. She starts to move faster against me, her ass pressing into my stomach as she fucks herself on my cock. I can feel her pussy tightening around me, her orgasm building as she watches Ava's body being used. Rachel whispers, "Look how much she loves it, Fin. How much she wants more."

I can't tear my gaze away from Ava, her eyes squeezed shut as James fucks her with a vigor that seems to defy his age. Her body is a symphony of sensation, her tits bouncing with every thrust, her pussy gripping him tightly. Rachel's voice is a siren's call in my ear, urging me to let go and claim my own pleasure. But I'm torn, the need to watch Ava's degradation at odds with the love and compassion I feel for her.

James' deep voice breaks through the haze of passion, his words a stark contrast to the tender care he's been showing Ava. "You like this, baby?" he asks, his tone thick with lust. "You ever had a black cock inside you before?"

Ava's eyes widen and she bites her bottom lip, shaking her head. "N-no," she says, her eyes still on James. "But... I want it. I want that big... black... cock... all inside me." Rachel's smile is a wicked curve, and she nods in approval. "Good girl," she purrs, her eyes never leaving mine. "Keep going, James. Make her scream."

James' rhythm speeds up, his grip on Ava's hips tightening as he drives into her. Rachel's nails dig into my neck, her breath hot against my ear. "Fuck me harder, Fin," she whispers, her voice a demand. "Make me feel like I'm the one taking that big cock."

Ava's words echo in my head, a mix of shock and arousal coursing through my veins. She's never talked like this before, never been so... uninhibited. Rachel's movements become more urgent, her pussy squeezing my cock as she watches James use Ava's body. The sound of skin slapping skin fills the room, punctuated by Ava's gasps and Rachel's moans.

I look down at Rachel, her eyes still locked on Ava and James, and I can't help but feel a mix of anger and excitement. Anger at the way I feel and excitement at the raw, primal need that's stirred in me. Rachel's hand moves to my cheek, turning my face to hers. She kisses me hard, her tongue invading my mouth as if claiming victory. The taste of arousal on her lips sends a jolt through me and I kiss her back with a passion that matches her own.

Her hips move faster against mine, her pussy tightening with every stroke. Rachel's hand leaves my neck, sliding down to grip my ass, urging me deeper into her. Our kiss is desperate, a battle of tongues and teeth as we both try to dominate the moment. I can feel her nails digging into my skin, a reminder of the power she holds over us all. Rachel breaks away, panting, and looks at me with a smug smile.

"You never thought you'd be here, did you?" she says, her voice a seductive purr. "Fucking me while your wife gets railed by a big, black bull like James?"

My mind races, trying to process the reality of the situation. Rachel, a sexy college student ten years younger than me, is grinding on me, her body a living embodiment of sinful temptation. I never imagined I would be in this position, kissing her deeply while watching Ava's body contort in pleasure with every thrust from a middle-aged man who was our friend. Rachel's teeth nip at my bottom lip, a playful bite that sends a shiver down my spine.

"See, aren't you glad you trusted me?" Rachel purrs in my ear, her voice a mix of satisfaction and challenge. She's taken my deepest, darkest desires and laid them bare before me. And as much as I want to resist, I can't deny the truth in her words. The intensity of the moment, the way Rachel's body feels around mine, the sight of Ava losing herself to James' relentless rhythm, it's intoxicating.

Yes," I finally say, my voice thick with lust. "I'm glad." Rachel's smile widens, her hips moving faster against mine as she takes my words as a declaration of surrender.

James' grunts grow louder and Rachel's movements become more erratic. She's close, I can feel it. Ava's eyes are squeezed shut, her body trembling with the force of her orgasm. James lets out a roar as he climaxes inside of Ava, their synchronized cries molded into a symphony of pleasure.

Rachel's hand reaches back, grabbing my hand, and she places it on her clit. "Make me cum with you," she whispers, her voice tight with need.

I start to rub her, the pressure building until Rachel's body goes rigid, her muscles spasming around my cock as she cums. "Oh, fuck yes, Fin!"

The sight of Rachel's climax sends me over the edge, my own orgasm ripping through me like a storm. Rachel's eyes are locked on Mike's, her gaze filled with a mix of triumph and challenge as she rides out the waves of pleasure.

Mike's eyes are glazed over with lust as he watches Rachel's body convulse against mine. Rachel's hand remains on my ass to keep me inside her as she speaks, her voice a seductive command. "You can cum now, Mikey. Cum for me, slave."

The words are barely out of Rachel's mouth when Mike's body tenses, his cock throbbing. He lets out a muffled groan, his orgasm hitting him with the force of a hurricane. His cum spurts out, a hot, sticky mess that covers his stomach and chest. Rachel laughs, her eyes gleaming with victory. "Good boy."

The room is filled with the sound of our ragged breathing, the air thick with the scent of sex and sweat. Ava collapses on James, her body trembling with the aftershocks of her orgasm. Rachel slumps against me, her breathing shallow and fast. I can feel the sticky warmth of her juices seeping out around my cock, mingling with the sweat on my skin.

The world goes hazy and before I know it, darkness descends. The next thing I'm aware of is the harsh light of morning, piercing through my eyelids. I groan, my body feeling heavy and used. The room is silent except for the distant sound of traffic, the party from the night before a distant memory.

I peel my eyes open to find Rachel lying on the bed beside me, her body tangled in the sheets, looking like a satisfied cat that's caught its prey. The sight of her sends a cold shiver down my spine. What have we done? The reality of the situation crashes down on me and I sit up with a jolt. Ava's not here. Panic starts to set in, until I hear her voice from the bathroom.

"Fin, wake up," she says, her tone sharp. "We need to talk." Rachel stirs beside me, her eyes opening lazily. She stretches, arching her back in a way that makes me want to smack her. But I can't. Not when I know what she's done.

I sit up, the room spinning. "What the fuck?" I mumble, rubbing my eyes.

Rachel smirks. "You remember what happened, right?" she asks, her voice sweet and innocent. But there's a mischievous glint in her eye.

Ava's voice from the bathroom is cold, her words cutting through the haze of last night's debauchery. "You've got some explaining to do," she says, her tone a mix of anger and betrayal.

I get out of bed, my legs wobbly as I walk towards the bathroom door. I push the door open to find Ava standing in front of the mirror, her eyes red and puffy from crying. She's naked, her body marked with love bites and bruises. My heart leaps as I see her so broken. "I never... I never wanted this. To be used... used like a fuck doll."

Rachel sits up in bed, her expression shifting from smugness to something more serious. "It's not like that-," she starts to say, but Ava cuts her off.

"Don't you dare," she scowls, turning to face Rachel. "You had no right to do this to me! No right to manipulate us like this!"

Mike was still tied to the chair. Rachel's eyes flick to him before returning to Ava. "Mike consented," Rachel says, her voice low. "And you... you liked it. Admit it." Ava's eyes narrow, but she says nothing. Rachel slides out of bed, her naked body moving with the grace of a panther. She strides to Ava, standing toe to toe with her. "You liked it," Rachel repeats, her voice a whisper that sends a shiver down my spine. "You liked being used. Being filled."

Ava's eyes dart to me, looking for an ally, but all she finds is the truth reflected in my gaze. Rachel's right. I did enjoy watching Ava with James, even though I know it's wrong. Rachel reaches out, her hand cupping Ava's chin, forcing her to look back into Rachel's eyes. "You liked it," Rachel murmurs, her voice a sultry purr. "You liked feeling James' big cock stretch you open."

But Ava's had enough. She slaps Rachel's hand away with a force that echoes through the room. "Don't you dare," she snaps, her voice shaking with anger as she swivels to me. "I can't believe you would agree to this, Fin. How could you!?"

"Ava, no. It's not what you think," I try to say, but my words sound hollow even to my own ears. "It wasn't supposed to turn out this way."

And then, as if on cue, James stirs. He opens his eyes and looks around the room, his gaze landing on Rachel and then me. His expression is one of confusion and then realization dawns on him. He sits up, his cock still semi-hard and clears his throat. "Well, that was... interesting," he says, his voice gruff with the remnants of sleep. Rachel giggles, the sound grating on my nerves.

Ava turns on him, her eyes blazing with anger. "You had no right," she says, her voice low and dangerous. "You're supposed to be my friend. How could you do this?" James holds up his hands, a look of surprise on his face. "Whoa, now," he says, his voice soothing. "I didn't force anything. You were into it."

"Don't you dare patronize me," Ava snaps, stepping closer. Rachel's hand grazes my arm, a silent warning for me to step in. "Ava-," I start, but she cuts me off with a glare. "Don't," she says, her voice trembling.

James looks from Rachel to me. "Look, I didn't mean to -" he starts, but Ava's fury cuts him off. "You didn't mean to? You didn't mean to fuck me like that? Like I was just a piece of meat?" The rage in her voice was boiling over as her fists clench.

James gets to his feet. "Look, I'm sorry if I overstepped," he says, his voice earnest. "But Rachel's right. We were all into it. Everyone can attest to this."

Ava's eyes narrow, her body vibrating with anger. "Fuck off! We were drugged! I was vulnerable and you... you all used that against me!"

She then turns to Rachel and points her index finger accusingly. "I don't know you'd turn my own husband against me, but you're sick!"

Rachel's smile is forced, her eyes darting between Ava and me. "Fin's not against you," she says, her voice taking on a soothing tone. "He's just... exploring. We all were."

"Well, have fun exploring without me!" Ava spits as she grabs a robe from the bathroom door and storms out of the room.

Rachel sighs as she shakes her head. "Fuck... I didn't mean for it to turn like this," she mutters. I'm not sure if she's talking to me or herself.

Mike seems unfazed by the whole situation as he wakes up. With surprising ease, he breaks free from his binds, the ropes falling to the floor like discarded snakeskins. He pulls the gag out of his mouth and gives it to Rachel. "Thanks, guys," he says as he grins. "That was... intense."

James and I exchange a look of shock. Rachel laughs, her body still flushed from our encounter. "What did you expect?" she asks, her tone teasing. "You should know Mike likes to play the sub sometimes."

The revelation hits me like a slap to the face. All this time, while Rachel was orchestrating our depraved sexcapade, Mike had been in on it, enjoying the humiliation. I had to admit that he was an amazing actor.

Mike approaches me, his eyes sincere. "Fin, I'm sorry, man," he says, his voice earnest. "I didn't mean for it to go that far with Ava. Sometimes... sometimes I just get caught up in the moment and lose control. It was just so... so fucking hot watching Rachel with James then the next thing I knew..."

His words hang in the air, a confession that does little to ease the knot in my stomach. "It's fine," I manage to say, my voice tight. "It was a crazy night... for all of us. Excuse me... I should... go after Ava."

Rachel nods, her eyes following me as I stumble out of the room, my head spinning with a mix of emotions. Guilt, anger, and a confusing arousal that I can't shake off. As I pull on my clothes, I couldn't believe how stupid I was. Sure, it was amazing in the moment, but seeing the hurt on Ava's face made me feel like a piece of shit. I had to find her and make things right.

At our rental, I find Ava in the living room, her shoulders heaving with sobs. She looks up at me with red-rimmed eyes. "How could you?" she chokes out, her voice thick with tears. "I trusted you... we... never... talked about it... and you just... just..."

I sit down beside her, pulling her into my arms, feeling the heat of her anger and pain. "I didn't mean for it to happen," I murmur into her hair. "Rachel... she... was very persuasive and-."

Ava pushes me away, her eyes flashing. "Don't make excuses," she spits. "You enjoyed it. I saw it in your eyes. Did you have fun fucking her, Fin? Huh? Did you have fun cheating on me?!?"

I swallow hard, unable to deny the truth. "I'm sorry. We were all so into it then one thing led to another and... seeing you with James was..." I whisper, the weight of the night's events pressing down on me.

"Sorry?" she repeats, her voice laced with disbelief. "You're sorry? You just sat there and watched me... you watched me with him." Her voice breaks and I can see the hurt behind the anger.

I've betrayed her in the worst possible way. "I didn't mean for it to go like that," I say again, feeling the weakness of my words. Rachel had promised it would be consensual, that Ava would be into it, but the raw fury on her face tells me I've crossed a line.

For a long moment, Ava says nothing, her silence a knife twisting in my gut. Then, she looks up at me, her eyes like shattered glass. "You didn't ask," she whispers. "You didn't even talk to me about it."

The accusation stings, but it's true. I'd been too wrapped up in my own desires. Too eager to see my fantasies come to life to think about the woman who's been by my side for so long. I'd failed her trust in me.

"I'm sorry," I repeat, feeling the weight of my words land with a dull thud. Ava turns away, wrapping herself in the robe tighter as if she's trying to hold herself together. "It's not enough," she murmurs.

Her silence is a wall, a barrier I can't breach. I reach out to touch her arm, but she flinches away. It's clear she needs space and I'm left feeling like the biggest asshole on the planet.

The drive home is agonizing, each minute stretching into an eternity. The tension in the car is thick and suffocating. As we pull up to James' house, she doesn't even glance in his direction. James opens the door, and for a second, I think he's going to say something, try to smooth things over with a joke or a reassuring pat on the back, but he seems to sense the hostility rolling off her in waves. He climbs out of the car and I watch him in the rearview mirror as he walks up to his front door.

The moment we're alone, the dam breaks. "I can't believe you," Ava says, her voice shaking with emotion. "You sat there and watched another man fuck me." The words are a knife, slicing through the quiet of the car. "I'm sorry," I whisper, reaching out to her, but she waves me off, her hand cutting through the air like a blade. "Don't," she says, her voice harsh. "Don't you dare touch me."

The silence stretches between us, a chasm that seems to grow wider with every second that passes. We pull up to our house and Ava's already out of the car before I have a chance to say anything else. She storms into the house and I follow, my heart racing. I need to explain, to make her understand that it was Rachel's doing, that it wasn't my intention to hurt her. But as I step inside, the coldness of her glare stops me in my tracks.

"I can't do this anymore," she says, her voice shaking. "I can't be married to someone who would let that happen." The words hit me like a ton of bricks and I feel my world crumbling around me. "What are you saying?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper. She turns to face me, her eyes filled with a mix of pain and anger. "I'm saying I want a separation," she says, each word a dagger to my soul.

I'm stunned, unable to form a coherent response. Rachel's plan had gone too far, had turned my life upside down. "But... we can work through this," I stumble, reaching for her, but she steps back, her body rigid with disgust. "No, Fin," she says, her voice firm. "This isn't something we can just work through. You betrayed me and I don't know if I can ever trust you again."

The words hang in the air, heavy and final. She disappears into the house, leaving me standing there, the cold reality of the night's events settling over me like a shroud. I'm frozen, unable to move, my mind racing with thoughts of what I could have done differently. Last night had been intoxicating, but now, in the harsh light of day, all I can feel is the bitter taste of regret.