The question she’d posed to Nate and Tristan remained front and center in Liv’s mind the next day. They’d all needed some time to process and put more thought into what they were really getting at—what they each wanted to get at. So Liv had kissed them goodnight, left the yacht, and returned to her condo.

The evening had been spectacular and she’d loved every moment of it. Especially her alone time with Nate and Tristan. But as much as she wanted them to truly consider the facets of their involvement with one another going forward, Liv had to do the same. Determine if a polyamorous affair was something that would work for them and what impact it would have on her career, her dreams . . . and theirs.

She let all of that percolate during the day, running all sorts of scenarios and potential solutions—not to mention the notable pitfalls—through her head. Just to make sure she didn’t rush into any conclusions or decisions.

In the late afternoon, before the sun set, she slipped into a black tank-style minidress and heels and headed over to the town square. Sylvia, Seth, and Noah had planned a surprise bachelor-bachelorette party and the festivities were just getting underway, though the bride and groom weren’t yet onsite.

The square’s gazebo sparkled with a Palladian chandelier and fragrant Wisteria sinensis vines twined around the glossy white railings. The courtyard tree trunks were wrapped with twinkle lights, and intricately designed arrangements of Sterling Silver and white roses decorated the perimeter.

Sylvia greeted Liv at the main entrance to the square, giving her a quick hug and saying, “As best as I can tell, both Chloe and John are clueless as what we have planned for them this evening. The invites only went out last week and mum has been the word this whole time.”

Liv’s gaze continued to sweep over the park. There were numerous caterers up front, serving all manner of food and cocktails. Scattered across the lawns were high-top tables and sofas and chairs. There was strolling entertainment, an awning-topped cigar lounge, and full-sized gaming tables toward the back right quadrant. To the left was a grand stage and dance floor.

“This is fantastic,” Liv told her friend. “What can I do to help?”

“Not a damn thing. I want you to enjoy! It’s all completely under control. I only have a few last-minute details to see to.”

They parted ways. As Liv milled about, taking in the lush scenery and listening to the band do their sound check, Fallon joined her and handed over a glass of merlot.

“I love when we have parties in the square,” Fallon said before taking a sip.

“I always seem to miss them. I get the email notifications from the city council or the personal invites and I always feel like they’re postcards declaring, ‘Wish you were here!’”

“That’s because we do wish you were here. And . . . here you are!”

Liv laughed. “How much wine have you had so far?”

With a snicker, Fallon told her, “This is my first glass, I assure you. And I am happy you’re in town. Also dying to know if you have two dates this evening.” She waggled her brows.

Liv took a drink of merlot, then said, “I’m not sure. We didn’t get around to discussing tonight’s festivities.”

“What did you get around to last night? Because both Nate and Tristan were completely mesmerized by you—and you didn’t appear to mind in the least.”

“Suffice it to say, I now fully understand why you weren’t able to choose between Dev and Morgan.”

“Oh! I knew there was something between the three of you!”

“You did not!”

“Please,” Fallon contended. “You are your own force of nature, Liv. But when you saw those guys at the yacht club, you were more lit up than this entire park is going to be at twilight. I could see why Lindsey broke the social media rule when it comes to your private life in Bayfront. And Nate and Tristan were just as smitten.”

“I will admit the three of us do spark.”

“By a lot. Even I feel the charge. It’s always been that way. Since you moved to town when you were a kid, there’s been a very strong underlying current of camaraderie with you three. And by senior year, I was actually beginning to think you’d hook up with one of them.”

“That didn’t happen.” Liv sipped again, then inhaled deeply before dropping her bombshell, finally revealing her sinfully delicious secret. “Not until they graduated college.”

“What?!” Fallon exclaimed, her emerald eyes popping. “You—what?”

Liv couldn’t contain her smile. “You heard me. And, yes, I did say they.”

Fallon gaped. Her head whipped to the left, then to the right, to make sure no one stood close enough to overhear as she asked, “You slept with both of them?”

“At the same time.” A wicked thrill skated down her spine as she added, “Though there really wasn’t much sleeping going on.” She winked.

“Oh. My. God.” Fallon needed more wine. She exchanged both their glasses for fresh ones. Turning back to Liv, she said, “You’re telling me that you had a three-way evening with Nate and Tristan?”

“Five years ago. In Paris. It just sort of happened . . . Well, perhaps not. I mean, it wasn’t a When in Rome . . . kind of thing. But it could have been subconsciously premeditated. I’ve been thinking lately that my entire relationship with them is subconsciously premeditated—on my part.”

“Holy fuck!” Fallon blurted. Then covered her mouth. Only briefly. “Why is this the first I’m hearing of something so monumental?”

Liv experienced a familiar tickle of excitement as she said, “It’s been our little forbidden secret and I’ve gotten a huge high off of keeping it. I don’t know . . . it’s as though having this scintillating confidence amongst the three of us bonds us even more. We’ve never needed to discuss the ménage—we still haven’t discussed the ménage in full. And maybe we truly don’t have to, because we can all clearly see how natural it is for us and—”

Liv let out a harsh breath. Took a moment to digest all of this.

Then she said, “Jesus.” And pressed a hand to her chest. “It really is just a natural state for us. Honestly, from the moment Nate and Tristan returned, I fell into a relationship with them.”

“That’s not the only falling going on,” Fallon lightly taunted with a twinkle in her eyes.

Liv’s gaze narrowed on her friend. “What are you talking about?”

“Come on, Liv. I don’t believe your ménage à trois is your only forbidden secret. You’ve been keeping an even bigger one from all of us—including yourself!”

She gasped. Fallon’s brows rose in silent challenge.

Liv’s pulse raced at the thought that perhaps her friend was right . . .

Was she in love with both Nate and Tristan? Not the longtime friendship or mutual adoration type of love she’d always felt for them but the truly, madly, deeply—passionately—type of love?

She opened her mouth to speak. No words came out.

Fallon smiled victoriously. “Uh-huh . . . that’s what I’m talking about. And all I’m sayin’.”

Liv’s mind whirled as she fought for the correct words.

“Why don’t I drop off that glass of yours on a tray,” Fallon suggested, “before it slips right through your fingers.”

Nodding was the most Liv could muster at the moment. Thankfully she didn’t have to strain herself too much with conversation, because a massive crowd began to gather, and the band cued a drum roll.

Liv turned toward the gazebo as a stunned Chloe and John were escorted to it by Sylvia, Seth, and Noah. Sylvia announced, “Surprise!” with the entire throng of guests echoing the sentiment.

Pretty Chloe with her adorable blonde bob and her to-die-for dimples pressed a shaky hand to her mouth as tears filled her eyes. Tall, manly John with his Tom Selleck mustache and broad shoulders looked on the verge of losing it a little, too. Because his fiancée was so blown away by the party—and the gorgeous setting.

They stood in the middle of the gazebo, taking in the entire town square as everyone clapped and cheered for them.

Liv got equally choked up.

The happy couple made a short and sweet speech, Chloe gushing over the attendance and thanking everyone for coming.

Tristan suddenly appeared at Liv’s elbow and she beamed up at him, her heart still pounding wildly over the nudge Fallon had given her to acknowledge her very real feelings for the stepbrothers.

She loved them. Both of them.

Had for some time, in one capacity or another. And it had all blossomed into this undeniable reality for her. But now was hardly the time for any sort of declaration on her part—it was Chloe and John’s day. So she simply told Tristan, “I’m glad you guys were able to come home early so you could be here for the party.”

“So are we. And we’d be even happier if you’d save us some dances tonight.”

“You don’t dance,” she reminded him.

He leaned in close and whispered, “We took lessons for the occasion.”

Liv’s heart fluttered. “That means I’ll also have two someones to dance with at the wedding reception.”

“As much as you want.”

“Tristan.” Emotion tinged her voice. “Neither of you have ever expressed an interest in dances. You avoided them like the plague, as a matter of fact, when we were growing up.”

“Yeah, but you enjoy them, so . . .” He gave a half-shrug and grinned.

Liv impulsively threw her arms around his neck. He, in turn, squeezed her tight. She didn’t care if the entire town took photos of the moment and posted them to Snapchat. She would never deny that the stepbrothers were her heroes.

Liv released Tristan just as Chloe and John started making the rounds to greet everyone. She was still breathless and buzzing from what she and Fallon had talked about—and from Tristan’s nearness.

She had a little more time to get her bearings as Madeline O’Connor joined Liv and Tristan. She gave Tristan a big hug, clearly taking him aback.

Madeline said, “I can’t thank you enough for all you’re doing with the new autism center. It will change so many lives, Tristan. Including Michael’s. And mine.”

Tristan told her, “It’s something I’m passionate about, Maddy. I was misdiagnosed with autism at a young age. Turned out to be a high IQ and a low attention span. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis and the right care. I want to see that happen here.”

“The facility is a wonderful idea,” Madeline contended. “I’m just so relieved there will be experts close to home.” She gave him another quick hug before turning to Liv. “Sorry to interrupt. I wanted Tristan to know that what he’s doing for the community is deeply appreciated.” She sniffled, fighting her own bout of emotion. “I’d better get back to serving hors d’oeuvres for Pasto’s. So nice to see you both.”

She left them. Liv’s gaze slid to Tristan. “What was that all about?”

“I’m building an autism center that will have three components: research; training for specialists, family members, and caregivers; and a fifteen-room inpatient retreat for those who qualify, like Michael O’Connor.”

“He’s only seven and has so much trouble functioning. He’s set the house on fire twice and he ran away once when Maddy’s attention was diverted for only a few minutes. That was terrifying for her.”

“I can imagine. Also dangerous for her and her son. Michael has already been through the application process and fits the eligibility requirements for the retreat. He’ll live there full-time once it’s constructed and certified, though Maddy will have unlimited access to him. It’ll be a much safer environment and Michael will have numerous specialists to work with him and care for him.”

“That could make a huge difference in his quality of life—Maddy’s, too. She’s always struggled with being a single mom to an autistic child. Not just when it comes to making ends meet, but trying to find experienced people to look after Michael while she’s waitressing.”

Tristan said, “Through the center, we’ll also provide financial assistance to families. The physical location will be in Bayfront, but the outreach program will span the entire Bay Area.”

“Wow.” She gazed up at him, a hint of awe creeping in on her. “Look at you being all philanthropic.”

“Nate and I realized that with a huge financial windfall comes a hell of a lot of civic and social responsibility. To be honest . . . it feels really good to have the means to help others.”

“Yeah, it does.”

Tristan took Liv’s hand and tugged gently. “How about a dance?”

The band had started up and several couples were already swaying to the music.

He coaxed her forward and pulled her into his arms. Liv actually had to concentrate on not stepping on Tristan’s toes as exhilaration shot through her. She stayed on the dance floor with him as the band launched into a series of faster-paced songs.

Chloe and John finally made it toward the stage, along with the rest of the bridal party.

Ev Hull, the lead singer of Defiant, announced, “Now that the bride and groom have arrived on the scene, it’s time to crank the festivities into high gear. Is that Liv Tyner I see on my dance floor?”

Liv groaned . . . though of course she secretly loved the attention.

Ev said, “I’m going to need your help up here, honey.”

The crowd cheered and Tristan gave her an encouraging smile. The band started in on the Black Eyed Peas’ “I Gotta Feeling.”

Playfully taunting her, the lead singer said, “You know I have to have female vocals for this song, Liv.”

With everyone suddenly chanting her name, Liv had no choice but to climb the three steps to the stage and take the proffered mic—and was beyond thrilled to do so. The music was thumping and the audience was going wild and she jumped right in to give them what they wanted.

It seemed the entire guest list was on their feet and dancing. Even the wait staff were setting aside their trays to clap it up and move to the driving beat.

Liv went full-throttle and she and Ev were effortlessly in sync, despite not having performed together since high school. Following graduation, he and his band had relocated to L.A. and now toured the southwestern nightclub circuit, so she only saw them on rare occasions.

Ev asked her to accompany him on a few more tunes, then when everyone looked in need of a breather from the energetic exertion, he said, “How about a request from our bride or groom?”

Chloe stepped forward and signaled for Liv to kneel down at the edge of the stage so she could whisper in Liv’s ear.

Chloe’s selection instantly brought tears to Liv’s eyes. But she straightened and waved a hand in front of her face to keep them at bay.

She said, “You’re killing me here, Chlo,” and took a moment to collect herself before clueing in the band so they could prepare. Then she told the audience, “You all know Chloe Lockhart—she’s not much for the spotlight the way I am. So she asked me to tee up this song. This one is for Sylvia. And I think I know precisely what Chloe would say if she wasn’t already getting too choked up to speak.”

Liv needed a few seconds more to compose herself. When she was a little less emotional, she said, “Since they were kids, Sylvia has been a best friend, a confidante, and a sister to Chloe—even a protector. They’ve been through hell together . . . and a bit beyond. That’s only served to fortify their bond. And I know Sylvia’s courage and the fact that she opened herself up to love is what gave Chloe the strength to do the same when she met John. A beautiful couple who could not be more perfectly suited for each other. So on behalf of Chloe, Sylvia, thank you for being the wind beneath her wings.”

The keyboardist started in. Liv took a deep breath. And put her heart and soul into doing the song—and the women it was dedicated to and from—justice.

John draped an arm around Chloe’s shoulders and tucked her against him as her tears flowed. Sylvia was flanked by Seth and Noah and fat drops rolled down her cheeks as well. Liv was only halfway through the tune when tissues and cocktail napkins were being passed around. Some couples danced, but most of them were riveted as they watched and listened to Liv.

Always her dream come true, to captivate an audience. But this time, it was much more meaningful, because she was one of the few privy to Chloe’s and Sylvia’s tragic upbringings—and their triumphs as they’d risen above the trauma. Together.

When Liv finished, there was nothing but silence. Everyone was still rapt. Until Chloe started clapping, then those who weren’t on their feet got to them. It was Liv’s first full standing ovation—and it was epic. Because these were her people.

She basked in the glory and still tried to combat her own tears.

Ev shook his head and quietly joked, “I have to fucking follow that?”

Liv laughed. “No trouble for you at all.” She handed over the mic. “Thanks for having me on your stage.”

“Anytime, Liv. And you know I mean that. I’ll have my manager send you tour dates in a heartbeat.”

“You’re all sensational without me, but that’s very kind.” She kissed him on the cheek before leaving the stage, which was bittersweet. Liv loved the limelight. And loved singing songs that resonated deeply. Particularly with this crowd.

As she descended the steps to the dance floor, her friends and acquaintances gave her quick hugs and told her how amazing she was—a truly gratifying moment.

Grace Kaplan grabbed her by both hands and said, “Liv, I know you’re not a wedding singer, but Ryan and I just got engaged and I absolutely have to have you sing “Ave Maria” as I walk down the aisle. Daddy will pay whatever you ask.”

Liv’s heart constricted at the beseeching request. She said, “Gracie, I’ve known you since you were born. I babysat you, for God’s sake. Of course I’ll sing at your ceremony. Edward doesn’t have to pay me—consider it part of my wedding gift. And, holy cow! Congratulations on your engagement!”

“Thank you!” The younger girl hugged her tight, then added, “It’s supposed to be a secret until the announcement in the paper comes out, but I just had to ask you while I had the chance. That was so beautiful what you said up there . . . maybe you’ll make a toast at my reception, too?”

“Anything you want.”

Ryan Morley came to collect his new fiancée, just as she declared, “Oh, my God! Liv Tyner is going to sing at our wedding!”

Liv congratulated Ryan on the engagement, then she made her way through the adoring crowd to Tristan.

And Nate.

He’d joined his stepbrother during her first song. Nate opened his arms and she walked into them. He held her for a few moments, then Tristan provided a napkin for her to dab her eyes.

“Geez,” she quipped, “you’d think I was the one who’d just had a song dedicated to her.”

“It completely stole my breath,” Sylvia said from beside her. They hugged.

Chloe told Liv, “I never would have been able to get those words out, but you said exactly what I was thinking. Thank you so much.” Another big squeeze that had Liv weepy once more.

When she pulled away, she said, “Hey, hey. This is supposed to be a wild bachelor-bachelorette party.” Turning back to the band, she called out, “Give us a beat!”