AN: This is intended to be a short romance story with multiple characters. It will definitely be a slow burn, so if you was something more tantalizing, please skip this story and chose another one more of your liking.

This chapter contains *NO SEX*. My goal is to write a compelling story that progresses naturally.

Also, all characters in this story are above the age of consent.

I look forward to reading your thoughts, but I will delete any abusive and/or hate-filled comments.

Thank you for reading my work. I truly hope you enjoy it.

IR2R

*****

*****PROLOGUE*****

*****PROLOGUE*****

"Look at them, so peaceful, so adorable." Shia Seales whispered. Her companion agreed. The two toddlers were beautiful. He was bias because, what dad did not think his children were special.

Soon the twins slept deeply. Tyrone James followed his ex-girlfriend back to the front of her house. "Babe, come here," Tyrone whispered.

Shia shoved him away. "Stop Tyrone, I've told you. We will raise the girls and nothing more."

Tyrone sighed, "Shia, I know I messed up, but give me a chance. Come on, you know you want to."

Her older sister walked in and Tyrone stepped back. "Hey Ty, checking on the girls?" She asked. Annette was more than aware of Tyrone's intentions where her younger sister was concerned. Tyrone knew Annette wasn't fond of him. She glared at him, even though her words were innocuous.

Annette remembered when all of this began. Three years ago was when the true strength of her mother and sister was revealed to her. It was a dark and scary time. She came home from class late one night, just as Mom made it home. Shia was crying as she made dinner. Momma froze and Shia sobbed softly. "What is it?" she demanded. It was then that Shia revealed that she was pregnant. She was so scared. Annette simply held her little sister. She stood behind her as she faced their mom.

Mom lashed out. "What? Pregnant? You ...! I've sacrificed for you. I gave up everything for you and your repay me by getting knocked up."

"Momma, calm down." Annette pleaded.

"Shia, Annette, just leave me alone. I need a moment." Harriet whispered. She failed again. First, Annette was hurt by her uncle when she was younger and now Shia had gotten caught up. After everything she had gone through, she still failed her girls. Harriet cried. She knew this would cause her daughter to have a hard life.

Then she remembered her past. She had Annette and ended up in a shelter. She fought to raise her girls and keep them safe. Harriet worked hard, two and sometimes three jobs. Her one, true regret was paying her aunt to watch her girls.

Harriet would never forgive herself for what her oldest daughter endured. It worked out. Even though her aunt, her only family disowned them, she made sure her uncle went to prison.

When Annette turned seven and Shia was five, Harriet managed to get a job for the city. With the amount she was being paid, she could work one job and be home for her children. Harriet vowed that her girls would have a better life than she did.

"Look, Ty, mom will be home soon. You need to go." Shia added.

Tyrone looked at her and stated, "I'm done wasting my time with you." Then he left.

Annette sat with her sister. She didn't say a word. Tyrone James was a waste of space. Shia could do much better. Besides, mom would be home soon, and both girls knew he was checking on her grand-babies.

Shia was silent. She had just turned eighteen. Her daughters would be three in a few weeks. Shia was lucky. She had help. Her mom and sister were her rock. Her mother did not care for Tyrone, but despite that, she insisted that he helped with his daughters.

Harriet walked in and she knew something was wrong. Annette had made dinner, and the babies were asleep.

Before they slept, Shia talked to her mother and sister about Tyrone. Harriet listened, but advised her daughter to be cautious. She did not like that young man. He was rude, spoiled, and mean. When she was around, he tempered his meanness, but Annette had told her how he often spoke to her sister. That was why he could only visit when she or Annette was home. They didn't trust him around Shia and the twins.

Time passed, and Tyrone's demeanor grew worse. He stopped visiting the girls. When he saw Shia, he made sure he insulted her. Shia ignored him for the most part, but when he started denying their girls, she confronted him.

"Ty, stop. Talk to me." Shia yelled at her ex-boyfriend. Tyrone turned around. He looked at the beautiful girl that a part of him hated. Tyrone could admit the truth. He was a waste. Here he was twenty-two, two kids by a girl who had a real shot of making it, and he truly had nothing to offer.

"What, Shia? Look, why don't you go play with your kids. You three are babies." He laughed.

"Tyrone, what are you doing? You told Miss George that the twins are not yours. How could you? You know that's a lie." Shia ranted.

Tyrone stopped moving. "Look, girl I wasn't your first. For all I know you were already pregnant. Those kids don't even look like me. They look Hispanic or something. Go sell your story someplace else. Now, get the fuck out of my face."

Shia gasped. No one had ever spoken to her like this. Everyone warned her about Tyrone, but he never treated her this way before. Stunned, she watched as he walked away laughing with another female under his arm. Shia turned and went to pick up her girls from daycare. Then she caught the bus home. Her sister, Annette was home. As Shia entered, Annette could see something was wrong.

"Shia, what happened?" She asked. Shia told her and as she cried, Annette was there. "You aren't alone, little sis. I'm here, momma's here. Kita and Tika will have everything we can give them. Don't worry about that fool. Let him go. It's his loss."

Shia cried over Tyrone for the last time. Time passed and he moved away. At the age of eighteen, Shia Seale was a single mother of two curious three year-olds. In a few months, she was graduating, and then going to trade school.

Shia

Shia graduated and decided that she's take care of her girls despite what others thought. Going to school full time was challenging especially with toddlers, but she was lucky. She had her sister and Mom to help her.

Finishing training, Shia was certified in computer communications and graphic strategies. Because of her work ethnic, he was scheduled for interviews, and was hired by a local company instantly.

Shia was excited and took this opportunity seriously. She reported in on day one on time and was put to work straightaway.

The pay was good, and Shia really liked most of her coworkers. Her boss, Mr. Brighton, was a sweetheart, and he made sure to check in with everyone each day.

Sadly, he had a medical issue and his nephew was taking over his post. Shia wasn't too worried. She'd do her job. However, the first day her new boss was taking over, circumstances caused Shia to report in late.

Sure enough he was waiting and looking at his watch. Not one to cause a scene, Shia clocked in and reported to her station. She was not surprised when a reprimand landed on her desk. Shrugging her shoulders, Shia resolved to make sure this did not happen again.

Time passed, and the younger Mr. Brighton was nothing like his uncle. The fur flew one day when senior Brighton stopped by, and everyone greeted him enthusiastically. A meeting was called and he informed everyone that he was stepping down. He also announced the retirement of his longtime assistant, Ms. Chew.

His nephew spoke and like that the mantle was passed on. Chris Brighton had no intention of replacing his uncle permanently. However, after his uncle's announcement, he literally had no choice.

As he finished writing a quick report, he saw her. He noticed her when he first came to the office. She was efficient. It was after five and she had not left yet. Chris smiled, she was late the first day he came, but after that she was never late again. Everyone liked her. His uncle sang her praises. Even, Ms. Chew, his uncle's assistant bragged on one Miss Shia Seales. Yes, he knew her name. He also knew she drank cocoa and not coffee. Often she brought her lunch, and never left the office during the day. He'd wonder, and maybe one day, he would have an excuse to talk to her and learn more.

Months went by, and Chris never failed to work on Saturday. Shia actually came in, one Saturday to finish up some reports when she saw that Chris was there. He smiled, and the two spent the day working together. Their friendship blossomed, with him offering her the job of his executive assistant. At first Shia refused, but the benefits alone were worth it. The guys that worked joked with each other. Chris felt like the odd man out. Soon half of the day was done, and Chris ordered lunch for everyone.

After working together for a few years, Chris realized he wanted something more, something deeper than just friendship. Not realizing that he was attracted to her, Shia treated him as one of the guys. Work progressed and someone planned a family day. Chris attended as did his uncle. He was welcomed and his uncle received warmly. He was disappointed to see that Shia was not there. Then she walked in with the cutest little girls.

Chris smiled as the girls, now five charmed everyone in the office. Mr. Brighton greeted them and they knew him. Shia laughed, as Chris joined them. The twins eyed him warily, but were polite.

Years Later

LaKita

"Momma, do you have to work this weekend?" Nineteen year old LaKita Seales asked. She liked Mr. Brighton, but ever since her mom became his personal assistant years ago, he wanted her to work all of them. LaKita was not blind; at nineteen she knew what it looked like when a guy had his eyes on you. Well, Christopher Brighton had been eyeing her mom for years now. He never made a move. She wondered if it was a class issue, or maybe even a racial issue. What if Chris was just shy? She'd call Tika and see what she thought.

"Yes. I do. I know for some reason you and your sister want me at this party, but I can't come. I'll try to stop by OK." Shia promised. Kita smiled. If what she was thinking was right, Mom would stop by but she would not be alone. Chris was coming with.

There best friend's dad was visiting. Maybe if Chris saw that there were other prospects around Mom, he'd make a move.

"Now, young lady, tell me about these young men that you and your sister are dating?" Shia asked. Having lost her mom a few years ago to diabetes, Shia now appreciated everything she tried to teach her. Her sister Annette now lived near her. Years of therapy helped her come to terms with the abuse she suffered and she was coping now. Annette even allowed her boyfriend, Cedric to move in with her. Shia suspected that Cedric wanted to marry her sister, but Annette wasn't ready.

LaKita was dating a guy and he was coming to the party. However, she knew neither Mom nor Chris would approve. So she told Shia that she was seeing someone. Shia frowned.

"Tell me about him?" She pressed.

"He lives in the neighborhood with his grandma. He is looking for work, and I'm helping him with applications and stuff." LaKita explained.

Shia frowned, "Did he finish school?" She asked.

LaKita looked away, "No, he dropped out in tenth, but school isn't for everyone. I mean, he does ok."

"LaKita, I don't like this. I want to meet him." Shia insisted.

LaTika was silent. She'd met Rufus and didn't like him. She told her sister to stop fooling with him. But Kita wanted to try and help him.

Then Shia faced LaTika, as LaTika sighed.

"Momma, don't worry about us. When are you going to get Chris to propose?" LaTika teased.

Shia laughed. "Chris is my friend. nothing more. We owe him and honestly; I would have not made it without him."

LaTika smiled, but Shia returned to the topic at hand. "Now, LaTika, I want a name?"

LaTika laughed. "Momma, his name is Jared. He works at AutoTech. You'll meet him tonight."

Shia smiled.

LaTika

Mom had to work again. She and Kita were not stupid. Chris just wanted Mom to be with him. Years ago, when they were fifteen, Chris came by their house. Grandma was alive and she told him to stop being so afraid. Shia was waiting on him. After that, Chris spent so much time with them that when Grandma passed way he had to sit with the family at her funeral.

Now, this weekend, he needed Mom to work. Tika laughed. More than likely, he was making sure no other men spent time with the woman everyone knew he considered his.

As she drove home from her anatomy class, her phone rang. "Momma said she has to work."

LaTika sighed, "Old Chris needs to step up. How many year has he watched Momma?"

Kita laughed, "You know exactly. Almost fourteen and it's past time. Look, I talked with Becky and Amy. They agree. It's time for our mom and their uncle to do the damn thang. They are crazy for each other and everyone knows it."

Tika nodded, not that Kita could see her though the phone. "Maybe we should give him a push. I have an idea. Let's invite Kya's dad to the party. He is one good looking guy. When Chris sees that he has competition, he's bound to ask her out or something."

Tika agreed with her sister. They were a family and it a time for their Mom and pseudo-Dad to make it official. Both girls knew how their birth father abandoned them but ever since they were six years old and met Chris, he was the best Dad a little girl could wish for. Not a birthday went uncelebrated; a Christmas went by without gift. On father's day when they were ten, they gave him a gift and a card; he cried, and he still had the card on the mantle in his home. They knew because for as long as they could remember, Chris's home was a second home to them.

The girls hang up and Kita called her friend. Kya did not agree at first because she was aware that Chris liked their mom. However, her Dad was always willing to prank someone and she'd ask him to attend. The plan was now in motion.

Ring, ring! Chris looked at his phone. It was LaKita. He knew the girls had plans for a get together Saturday, and he had asked Shia to come in and help him finish a few reports. The twins would not be happy. Actually, they were not working. He had a surprised planned for all three of his girls. He prayed that the finale worked out in his favor.

"Hello, LaTika, I know you're ticked off. I promise, your Mom will be free by noon." He promised.

"That's OK. We know you have important stuff to do." LaTika paused. "It's just that, we want to make sure you're coming to the party tomorrow night?"

Chris smiled, "I wouldn't miss it." Then they exchanged times and then hang up.

Yes, tonight was a game changer. LaTika smiled as she called her sister to tell her everything was a go. It was way past time. Even Aunt Annette agreed with them. Chris pretended he was a friend, yet, he and Mom never went beyond friendship. All of the glances, remarks, and thing others said confused them, but as they got older they knew how Chris looked at their Mom. He made sure they had every need met. Last year, as they graduated from a prestigious academy, that his family gave them scholarships to attend, Chris stood as proud as any other parent there. Momma stood beside them, and it was obvious that they were together.

"They are coming to this party. OK, LaKita. We're calling in back up." The girls hang up and LaTika called in the big guns, Chris' s aunt, Madge.

Madge had been hinting for years for Chris to stop dragging his feet. Yet her nephew was stubborn. She was more than ready to light a fire under her nephew.

Shia

Her girls were adults now. Shia looked in the mirror in her bedroom. She didn't look old enough to have twenty year old daughters. At thirty six, she was still hot. Her phone rang and of course, it was her boss and friend Chris.

They chatted and she was headed to the office to help him finish up some reports.

As she walked outside, Chris had driven over to pick her up. She could tell from the flushed look on his face someone had taken him to task.

Climbing into the car, she faced him, "What's wrong?"

"Well, Aunt Madge called and accused me of being an insensitive clod. You should have told me you had plans with the girls. I don't need you to come in." Chris explained.

Shia smiled, "Let's go. The quicker we get there, the quicker we will finish." So their short work day began. As Shia worked on proofing his final documents, Chris retrieved a special box from his safe. Placing his prize in his pocket, he submitted the final report and offered to drive Shia home.

She refused, saying she had to do some things. The next few hours were spent purchasing a new outfit for the birthday dinner. Not wanting the time with her to end, Chris asked her to help him choose appropriate gifts for the girls. Shia looked at him strangely. For the past twelve or thirteen years, Chris had a better understanding of her girls than she did.

Soon, he dropped her off and told her that he'd drive her to the party.

At six, Chris was waiting for Shia outside of her home. He was nervous. Tonight was the night. He'd waited fourteen years. He kept his feelings secret, and no one really knew how he felt about Shia. From the moment he saw her the first time, he knew. Over the years, he filled in where he could. He did the small things, things not many would notice. She did. She didn't say anything, but often she'd smile and thank him. He'd dismiss his actions as not important. The girls always called him Chris, but one year they gave him a card and gift on Father's Day. If Chris wasn't hopelessly in love with all three women, he fell that day. His job was stressful, and Shia was always with him. She stayed late, arrived early, an even on his worse days, she looked out for him. Overtime she would rub his shoulders some nights. Sometimes, when he would fall asleep in his office, she'd check on him and make sure he was comfortable.

Shia walked outside and Chris stopped breathing. Gone was her typical tapered office attire, nor did she did she wear her usual jeans and tee shirt. Wearing a pair of black tights, a red and gold printed dropped waist top, Shia looked amazing. Her hair hanged over her shoulders, her dark locks contrasting her beautiful caramel complexion perfectly. Her hazel eyes were highlighted to perfection showing her astonishing beauty that had him fascinated for fourteen years.

Getting out of his car, Chris opened the passenger side door.

"Wow, Chris, you look great!" Shia exclaimed. For the first time in a long time, Chris was dressed casually. Khakis, a gold polo top and work boots. His usually perfectly groomed hair was haphazardly brushed.

She knew both girls insisted that he not wear a suit. She also knew that for some reason he'd do just about anything for her daughters. Shia loved this man. It was silly, and she never wanted him to know. He was her friend.

Chris sat beside her and smiled, "Why thank you, Shia. I must say, you look amazing as well."

Shia laughed and his heart pounded even harder.

Soon they arrived at the restaurant where the girls were having their party. Chris made sure his hand was placed on Shia's waist, sending a clear message. As they entered, everyone welcomed them, especially LaKita and LaTika.

The party was exciting, full of music, food, and fun. Chris was pissed. As soon as they arrived, another man moved in to Shia. He was the father to one of the girl's friends. Chris learned that his name was Jim. He pretended to be friendly, but Chris was not blind. Jim's attempts to get Shia alone, asking her to dance, even pouring on the southern charm did not go unnoticed. Then Chris had a thought, what if Shia liked this guy? Did he have the right to demand anything? Shaking his head, Chris decided to take action, but just as he approached, one of the twins stopped him to introduce her boyfriend. Chris didn't like the guy. He looked around; Shia was still talking to tall, dark, and sexy.
Before he could intervene a second time, Aunt Madge stopped him and told him. If her let Shia get away she would disown him. Chris smiled, and looked around. Shia was his other half and after tonight, everyone would know. Chris knew he had to say something tonight, but first he has to speak with his daughters, being somewhat shy, he asked each girl for a dance at which point, he told them his plans. Both girls approved, and were willing to help.

Shia had a great time talking with friends, family. Chris watched, wanting to rip he arms off of any other man that touched her, especially James. Then things took an interesting turn, Jim joined him and congratulated him. According to the other man, Shia was besotted. Soon, the party slowed and the music softened. The girls shared a look. It was time.

As everyone talked, Chris walked over to Shia and took her hand. She looked at him, slightly puzzled. Her friend stepped back. Chris being ever the gentleman cleared his throat and spoke truthfully his feelings he'd held inside all of the previous years.

"Dance with me." Chris whispered.

Smiling, Shia wrapped her arms around him as they sway to the soft r and b over the speakers. Chris held her so firmly, that Shia had to keep reminding herself he was only a friend and her boss also.

Soon, the song faded, and the two were not aware that anyone else in the room. Chris took a deep breath.

"Twenty, I can't believe they are twenty." Chris whispered.

Shia nodded. Chris was not done. I'm through hiding you know. I have hidden for over fourteen years; I didn't want to risk you leaving, so I hid. He stopped and led her to a bench. Shia was scared now. What was he trying to say?

Shia shook, as Chris pulled out a velvety box, kneeling on one knee before family and friends, he asked the one question he'd waited to ask for over a decade.

She didn't answer right away and Chris was terrified. He looked up, and she was nodding Y ES!

Everyone was cheering. He lifted her, twirling her around, screaming that she said yes. Soon everyone congratulated them and the girls insisted on planning the wedding.

Shia and Chris agreed, and the girls had calls to make. Before Chris drove Shia home, his family teased him and said it was about time.

Several weeks flew by. Shia was amazed at how quickly plans fell into place. She literally had to do nothing. Her sister was matron of honor. Chris' brother was best man. Her girls were bridesmaids as well as Chris's nieces. The pastor of her church already had the ceremony prepared. All she and Chris had to do was show up at the wedding. She decided to select a gown, and Annette had already chosen three. A part of her swished Momma was here, but Madge reminded her that she was always I their hearts.

One night, as she was lounging at Chris's home, the two needed some alone time, Chris sighed. Shia looked at him. He smiled. "So, this time next week, you'll be Mrs. Chris Brighton. I like the sound of that."

Shia smiled, "Well, Mr. Brighton, just be ready sir. I promise you this; you are headed into the venture of your lifetime." They kissed. The two had decided to live separately as soon as they announced their engagement, but Chris found that he needed Shia with him all of the time. Chris laughed and Shia loved the sound of his laughter.

On a clear fall afternoon, Shia and Chris took their vows before family and friends. The small church was packed. LaKita and LaTika both stood with their parents. Soon, the ceremony ended, and Chris and Shia celebrated into the night.

LaKita and LaTika were the happiest they had ever been.

LaKita

LaKita was twenty-two years old. She and her sister finally separated and moved to different parts of the country. She missed her family, especially her Mom and new stepdad. This was their birthday weekend and she and LaTika decided to visit home as a surprise for her parents. Besides, it had been two years since they had seen them and were excited when Mom told them they would have new sibling before Christmas

.

"Hello",

"Kita, where are you? I'm almost there. I wanted to arrive at the same time. "LaTika explained.

"Hey girl, I'm approaching Main Street now. Let's meet up at Aunt Annette's, and then we can go to the house together." LaKita stated.

Soon the girls arrived at Annette's home. Annette greeted them, holding each young woman tightly. It had been two years since her babies had left and now they were home. Shia and Chris had no idea. Annette called Chris, asking was now a good time to stop by.

Chris answered and told her to stop by. Shia was going stir crazy. His sister and mother were already there and at eight months pregnant, Shia was cranky.

The main recipient of her ire was her loving husband Chris. He was patient and did everything he could to make her happy. His wife and child were the most important people in his world right now. Last night, the twins called, and Shia was so happy to talk with their daughters.

Chris wanted to see them. They both moved away two years ago, and neither had an opportunity to visit home. After the baby was born and old enough, they were traveling to see their daughters.

Shia was ordered to sit by Mom and Chris knew she would be annoyed. He decided to sit with her and let her channel her discontentment towards him. Just as she sat, Annette walked in. Shia sighed, Another person is here that will treat me like I'm helpless.she thought.

"Hey baby Sis. I know you don't want to be bothered, but I brought some people that really want to see you with me." Annette added smiling.

"Really, Annette, I don't want company. Shia started to complain when behind Annette her daughter walked in. Shia squealed with joy and the girls hugged their Mom. Chris was next and everyone was excited to see that they had come home. They were not staying long but wanted to see their Mom and dad. Soon everyone was visiting and Shia was simply overjoyed.

The girls visited for a few days, but promised to try and come home when the baby arrived. Chris hugged them and told them to come back anytime. LaKita returned to work relaxed and happy. Nothing would ruin her good mood.

"Seales, welcome back. I see the week off did you a world of good." Her boss stated.

LaKita smiled, "Yes sir, it was wonderful."

"Well, I'm glad. It's nice to see you smile. Now, let's get to work." He added.

LaKita didn't waste a moment. Soon the day began, and she worked several caseloads. Her boss was impressed. Unbeknownst to LaKita, the CEO of the company stopped by for a visit.

Brandon Wend started this company when he was twenty years old. Many people were astonished that a kid from the middle of nowhere had the ability to manufacture and produce a product that would be desired worldwide. His offices maintained immaculate records on his products.

As he entered the main office, he saw her. She was working at her computer and concentrating so hard, that she never realized he entered the room.

LaKita was working when she realized everyone was quiet. She looked up. Standing in the middle of her office was the most handsome man she'd ever seen.

"Ms. Seales, come here." Her boss called.

LaKita joined them, eyeing the new man carefully.

"LaKita, this is Mr. Wend. He is the founder and CEO of the company. He is doing quality control checks and because of your efficiency, our office has been highlighted." He explained.

LaKita smiled, and Bradford almost forgot to breathe. Her hazel eyes sparkled, and he watched her carefully. He had to call Thomas. His brother was better at reading people than he was. He wanted him to meet this woman.

The meeting was short with him shadowing the office becoming more and more impressed. He would talk with Thomas and they would consider revamping the offices and modeling them after this branch.

He had many questions and wanted only the lovely LaKita to answer. So, he called on her constantly throughout the day.

Brandon left the main office and returned to his hotel. He called his brother. Thomas was across the country attending a medical conference. He was a partner in the company, but left the day to day running to his brother.

"Who is she? Do I need to hire the detective?" Thomas teased as soon as he picked up.

Brandon chuckled, "She is a Nubian goddess that I plan to marry one day. I've done my research. She has a sister a twin. Guess what, the twin lives in Washington. She is in the same city as you in fact."

Thomas was intrigued, "Really, and what is the name of my future sister-in-law."

Brandon sighed, "LaKita Seales, She fascinates me."

Thomas smiled, "I want to meet this girl."

Brandon took a deep breath, "First, I have to get past her dislike of me. She truly detests me, but I will win her over."

Thomas laughed, "Ah ha, A challenge. This girl has me fascinated."

Brandon smiled, His brother always put him at ease. Changing to topic, he asked about his presentation, "Hey, are you ready for tomorrow?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," Thomas replied.

The brothers chatted a bit more and then hang up.

LaKita was home. Her mind kept drifting to her handsome boss. He was so smug, conceited, and egotistical. He thought he knew everything. Well, it was his company and his product, so maybe he did. However, did he have to be so smug about it. He'd ask her questions then wait for an answer just to redirect and frustrate her to no end. By the time the day ended, she wanted as much space between them as she could muster. Then he smiled, and her body throbbed. Damn it! She thought, What is it about egotistical jerks that get to me? She was turned on by him. "How can a man that looks that damn good be such an ass?" She asked out loud. As she contemplated, LaTika called.

"Hello." LaKita answered.

"Uh oh, what's his name? How do I get rid of him?" LaTika teased.

LaKita smiled, "Brandon Wend. He's CEO of the company I work for. He is egomaniac, but too damn good looking. He had so many questions. Every few minutes he called me to him. I swear, if this happens tomorrow, I'm going to snap."

LaTika laughed. LaKita was very short-tempered. This reaction did not surprise her.

LaTika

LaTika hang up after talking with her sister for over an hour. She had a workshop the next morning and needed her rest. Going to bed, she wondered about the man that flustered her sister so. Tika smiled, it was good for her sister to be challenged.

Meanwhile, unbeknownst to LaTika, across town, Thomas Wend was up working. He smiled as he thought of the conversation he had with his twin earlier. Shaking away foreign thoughts, he had to focus. He had to present new equipment to technicians. He was nervous and decided to peek in on the audience. He saw an incredibly beautiful woman. She was a nurse or someone that used medical equipment. She was attending his presentation. He watched her and her friends and as each moment passed, he forced his body to calm and stood before his audience. LaTika was not really paying attention, and then she heard his voice. Her heart pounded.

Thomas spoke, but without causing interruptions, eyed the lovely woman intently. Soon, it was time for a break and he headed straight to her table. She didn't speak but her coworkers had many questions. As he addressed them, she excused herself. One of the women said something about working with LaTika. It was then he noticed her note pad, LaTika Seales was written neatly across the top of the page.

Just like clockwork, he remembered his brother was fascinated by a woman with a similar name. Thomas smiled, it seemed he and his brother had found two sisters that they wanted to get to know.

The break ended and Thomas finished his presentation.

LaTika was quiet. He was handsome, but something about him captivated her. She could not figure out what, but she had plans to figure it out. The short break ended and the group returned to the seminar. LaTika was riveted. As the session concluded, Thomas approached her.

"Hello, I'm Thomas Wend. You already know that. I was wondering if we could go out for a cup of coffee or something." He asked nervously.

LaTika examined him closely. Thomas Wend was a handsome man. LaTika could not keep her eyes off of him. He was also sweet, shy even. She smiled, "I'm LaTika Seales." Thomas gasped. He smiled, "So, will you join me for a coffee?"

LaTika smiled, "Of course."

The two ended up having a light dinner and got to know each other really well. Thomas was nervous. He knew she had a sister, because his brother was just as captivated by her. He decided to bit the bullet and tell her about his brother.

LaTika laughed, "Let me get this straight. Your brother is CEO of Wend Corp. He mentioned my sister to you. Oh, buddy this is good. Call him."

Thomas explained if he was working he would not like being disturbed. But dialed anyway. Brandon had actually called LaKita over to his suite.

LaKita had just arrived. He opened his door and for a moment he forgot to breathe. "Hello, Miss Seales, come in. Thank you for coming over. Let's have dinner and I can tell you why I asked you to come here."

Please, sit. I'll be right back." Brandon stated. He went to get his phone which rang as they were leaving. It was Thomas. "Excuse me, it's my brother."

LaKita waited as he answered, then she heard him say "What?"

"Um, Miss Seales, my brother has someone that wants to speak with you." He transferred the phone to speaker.

LaKita spoke, "Hello,"

LaTika teased, "Really Kita, you tried to keep a secret from me."

LaKita laughed, "Tika, what are you doing? How did you figure it out?" The women chatted and the men simply watched. Both girls' phones rang. They squealed. They had a new brother and had to go home to meet him.

"Um, we can take you." Brandon stated. "My jet can fly us to Washington to pick up your sister, and Thomas and I can escort you to your parents.

LaKita hugged and thanked him. "Tika, airport, now." And the four took off.

Within the hour, Brandon and LaKita were in flight to pick up their siblings. As they landed, Thomas and LaTika prepared to board the plane. As they entered the two men greeted each other. The girls were introduced and they talked. Thomas and Brandon were twins. Thomas was in fact fifteen minutes younger than his brother. Brandon, as the oldest, was also the bossier of the two. LaKita could relate. She was the older twin.

LaTika shook her head, all of her sympathy with Thomas.

As the two bantered back and forth, LaTika and LaKita could not help but admire the two handsome men. They were handsome, almost too handsome to be real. The men noticed that both girls were silent.

Brother, they are curious. I wonder if they are connected as we are? Brandon sent.

Thomas chuckled, They could be, Brandon. Let's see. I'll project a thought to LaKita, if she reacts, then it would seem our brides are gifted as well as beautiful. Thomas replied.

Wait, I'll send to my own lady. You send to yours. Brandon suggested, instantly jealous of the idea of this mate receiving images from another male, even his brother.

Thomas chuckled; the girls looked over at them. Thomas sent to LaTika. Just as Brandon sent a soothing a sexy thought to LaKita. LaKita gasped as her body flamed and the naughtiest thought entered her head. At the same time, LaTika was watching Thomas. She knew.

"Kita, there is something different about them." She whispered.

Thomas and Brandon then sat with them. The girls eyed them even more warily. "Ladies, we mean no harm. We were just curious. We have never met anyone that is like we are. You two are gifted just like we are. Only another person that has this psychic ability would receive the images we just sent you." Thomas explained.

'The pilot announced that they were about to land, and everyone buckled in. As they exited the airport, LaTika and LaKita stayed close, as the brothers walked behind them. Soon, they rented a car and headed to the hospital where there mom had just given birth.

As they arrived, they were greeted by family and soon forgot about their escorts. Thomas and Brandon seemed to fade into the background. That was not usual, they were always unnoticed. As the girls walked into their mother's room. The sense of love, and genuine affection covered the two men. They knew, for certain that this is what they wanted.

Chris looked up and saw them. The look on his face told the women all they needed to know. Daddy was glad his little girls were home, but he most definitely did not like the guys that brought them home.

"Hello, gentlemen, welcome. I'm Chris, their stepfather. Thank you for getting them here." He added. He shook both men's hands. He had questions, but they could wait. He had a new son, and wanted his daughters to meet their brothers.

The two smiled, "No problem sir. It was our pleasure."

Then a nurse entered and everyone but immediate family had to leave. Knowing they had work the next day, the girls went home. The flight back was quiet. Finally, the girls shared a look and asked, "What are you?"

The brothers smiled, "Just regular guys. We have some psychic gifts. It's hereditary." Brandon explained.

LaKita and LaTika shared a look. "That's why you two are so successful. You can read people." LaTika exclaimed.

The girls were captivated. They often did special thins with one another as they grew up. But as they grew older, they wanted their own identities so as they grew older they sought more independence. Both women were silent. The brothers waited. They were nervous. No one spoke. Then Thomas had to say something. "You have a great family. Thanks for allowing us to take you to see them."

LaTika smiled, "No, thank you guys. We can never repay you for this."

LaKita added in. "Tika's right. Thanks." The four just chatted for the rest of the flight. Soon, the fight came to an end. The plane landed in Washington, LaTika and Thomas exited. As the four split up,

Thomas and LaKita finished their journey home.

"Look, thank you for doing this for us. Mom and Chris have always wanted a new baby. I just can't believe I'm a big sister to a newborn at my age." She laughed. Brandon smiled.

"Yes, he was cute. Bet he'll be spoiled rotten. You know, I can give you time if you want to go back and help your Mom." Brandon suggested.

LaKita smiled. "No, she has Aunt Annette and many friends around. Besides, Tika and I are going home for a long visit in the spring. I'm saving my vacation days for that trip." She watched him. "You know, Brandon, you're a nice guy."

Brandon smiled, "Don't let that secret get out." Soon, the pilot announced that they were approaching to land and he smiled. LaKita watched him, fascinated.

The end of part one.

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