Caught Between Two Brothers

SERENA's POV

There I was,thinking my first blind date ever was perfect. My date for the evening, John was smiling sweetly at me and then his eyes suddenly widened with panic. He leaned in, whispering urgently, "Serena, duck under the table! Quick!"

Confused and alarmed, I stammered, "What? Why? What's happening?"

Before he could respond, a woman stormed into the restaurant and scanned the place.

In an instant, he confessed in hushed tones, "That's my crazy ex-wife. We're going through a messy divorce. Please, just duck under the table. I don't want her to see us together.She can't see me here!"

Way to go,John Cena.

To say I was shocked was an understatement because for the past thirty minutes we had been sharing laughs and talking about our interests and life,he didn't think it was necessary for him to give me such a vital information?

Ain't no way in hell was I allowing that fire breathing dragon to come have my head. I spied her coming closer from the corner of my eye and she was headed to our table.

"No way," I declared, a little horrified as I stared at him."You've had ample time to mention this, and you chose now? I'm not going to be part of this mess."

As the angry ex-wife closed in, I swiftly grabbed my bag, rose from my chair, and shot a stern glance at John. "Deal with your own issues,John.I'm out of here."

But then I felt a tug at my hair from the back and I almost lost my balance.

I spun around to see the woman staring daggers at me and John who was unsuccessful at hiding under the table.

"Did you just pull my hair?" I asked.

"You're the whore he has been screwing throughout our marriage?"

"Uh excuse me," I said,mortified. "I met your partner for the first time thirty minutes ago. Your focus should be on him. Now,if you would excuse me, I have somewhere to be."

A few people were staring at our direction by now. As I started walking away, I heard her scream at him, "If you think you can escape paying alimony,think again you bastard!"

Getting into my car, I escaped the brewing drama and found my way to my best friend, Katy's house. She had been the one to set me up with the guy in the first place. She opened up the door,dressed in syrup stained grey sweats and her black wavy hair that fell across her shoulders was a little dishelved.

"You have a lot to answer for," I frowned and pushed past her into the house. Then I narrated my ordeal.

Katy, wide-eyed, exclaimed, "I had no idea, Serena! I swear, I thought he was genuinely a nice guy. I would never set you up with a married man intentionally."

Sighing, I sank into the couch and said, "Katy, I appreciate the effort, but maybe my love life doesn't need your intervention right now. I'm perfectly fine on my own, busy with work and not looking for unnecessary complications."

Katy rolled her eyes playfully. "Come on, Serena! You've been buried in legal briefs and courtrooms for too long. Sometimes, you need a little nudge into the world of romance and fun."

"Well, that nudge turned out to be a shove into a soap opera. I think I'll stick to my busy, drama-free life, thank you very much."

"Come on, Serena, don't tell me you didn't enjoy the drama.Blind dates are supposed to be exciting." She giggled and clapped her hands.

I shot her a stern look, "Katy, that was no excitement and I am officially declaring a blind date ban on my love life. No more setups, please."

She was pouting when she said,"Alright, alright. But you can't deny it's been a while since your ex boyfriend,Cameron. It's been a year, Serena. You need to get laid. You are practically celibate."

A small smile tugged at my lips. "I am celibate and I'm perfectly happy that way. I don't need the complications of dating. My work keeps me busy, and I'm content with the peace that comes with being single."

"You are twenty six years old Serena!" She grabbed my shoulders and shook them slightly. "Aren't you supposed to be in crazy in love, having fun,lots of sex or even making a baby?"

I laughed. "Let me tell you something best friend,being a criminal defense lawyer is quite fun."

"Are you serious?" She looked at me incredulously. "Tell me, 'My Lord,If I may,' is better than saying 'Oh yes daddy?'.You've become very boring," she gave an eye roll.

I snorted a laughter and pushed her hands off my shoulders. "Were you saying that minutes ago? Is that why your hair is dishelved and this place is a little messy?" I wiggled my eyebrows at her with a teasing smile.

"Shut up," she giggled."I swear I wasn't having sex before you came in." A little pause and then, "Okay maybe I was,but he left about twenty minutes ago."

"Ha! I knew it!"

Still giggling,Katy stood up and offered to get us some drinks from the fridge.As I turned on my phone, a voicemail notification caught my attention. It was from my mom.

"Hi, Serena! It's Mom. I have some exciting news. I'm getting married! Can you believe it? Come over for a few days; I need your help with the wedding plans. Love you!"

I replayed the message, my mind struggling to comprehend what the hell I had just heard. My mom, getting married? I called her immediately, needing an explanation.

"Serena, darling! I'm so glad you called. I've missed you," her voice exuded happiness.

"I've missed you too Mom, but marriage? What happened? And who's the lucky guy?"

She laughed joyfully, "Oh, it's a wonderful man. I'll explain everything when you get here. I'll text you the address. Can you make it?"

Still in a daze, I replied, "Sure, Mom. I'll be there in a few days. Let me pack my things."

"No baby,can you come today if possible? I know it's impromptu but please? There is a lot to do and I need you around."

"Oh okay,fine.I'll be there in two hours."

As I hung up, Katy re-entered the living room with a bottle of Cadila,my favorite creamy drink and two glass cups.

"Sorry Kats, but I can't stay. Mom just told me she is getting married."

She blinked in surprise. "For real dude! Omg,your mom is such a lucky woman"

"Yeah,except she didn't ever tell me she was dating anyone. I gotta go, I'd let you know what happens later."

After a brief hug,I dashed out of her house and made my way to my own apartment. I hurriedly packed a few essentials into my small suitcase, wondering what had prompted my mom to take this unexpected step.

I was slightly worried about her too because I didn't even know who this man was.My mom knew how to make impulsive decisions sometimes and I just had to be sure she was in safe hands.

My mom and I grew slightly apart when she moved away two years ago.She was a reporter who was offered a job at a larger station in Washington DC. She only returned to New York a week ago and I hadn't been able to see her yet as I was so preoccupied with work.

Taking a drive to her location,I found myself standing before a sprawling mansion at exactly 7 pm. My jaw dropped; my mom seemed to have landed herself in the lap of luxury.

Approaching the gate, the security guard asked me to state my name and who I was looking for.

"Serena Santos and I'm looking for my mom, Julia Santos." I answered.

The guard inquired through the intercom. Once confirmed, he welcomed me, and I stepped into what appeared to be a billionaire's paradise. The grandeur of the house left me awestruck.

As I reached the doorstep, my mom swung the door open before I could ring the bell. Dressed in elegant clothing, adorned with expensive jewelry, she looked radiant, almost like a different person. She had a sweet floral scent which was different from her usual fruity fragrance.

In a bear hug, she crushed me against her, "Serena, my love, it's been too long! I've missed you so much."

Returning the embrace, I couldn't help but notice the transformation in her appearance. There was a glow, a vibrancy, and an air of happiness that I hadn't seen in years.

"I have missed you too,Mom." I stroked her cheek."You look so beautiful."

She smiled widely. "And so do you,you are practically glowing! I am so eager to show you my new family.Come in, sweetheart. Perfect timing; you're just in time for dinner," she said, leading me inside.

As we approached the dining area, she proudly introduced the occupants at the table.

"Serena, meet my sons. Cameron and his twin brother, Kaden," she said, gesturing towards the young men seated.

"And this is the man I'm going to marry, their father, Mr. Dan Lodge," she continued, introducing the patriarch of the family.

Except my eyes weren't looking at anyone else,but fixed on Cameron,my ex boyfriend I hadn't seen in a year. He was right there in the flesh!

My eyes widened in surprise. And what the hell,he had a twin brother?

If I was eating something right now,I would have probably choked.

SERENA's POV

Dan Lodge, my supposed stepfather, flashed a warm smile and gestured for me to take a seat. "It's good to finally meet you, Serena. Julia has spoken such beautiful things about you. And you're such a beauty, just like your mother."

I gave a small smile as I took a seat right next to my mother."It's great to be here," I managed to reply, still struggling with the sudden turn of events.

Cameron, my ex-boyfriend, cleared his throat and greeted, "Welcome, Serena." His voice carried a hint of formality, and I responded with my fakest smile, avoiding direct eye contact. Instead, my gaze was fixed on the display of a large roasted turkey at the center of the table.

Kaden, Cameron's twin brother, remained silent, and indifferent, as if I was invincible. Well, that was pretty rude. Cameron, on the other hand, looked oddly pleased to see me, a cheeky grin playing on that handsome face of his.

Taking a closer look at both brothers, I noticed the subtle differences that set them apart. Cameron, with his dark brown curly hair cut short, sported a few days' worth of stubble on his face. His eyes, a deep green, complemented his tanned skin and there was the chiseled jawline, broad shoulders, and muscular build. The rugged charm that had once drawn me in was still undeniably present.

And then that damned earring on his left ear that still made me swoon.

On the other hand, Kaden possessed a different allure. His wavy, light brown hair framed his face, and deep hazel eyes were emphasized by thick, dark eyebrows. His lips were heart-shaped, and a square jawline added a touch of ruggedness. I couldn't see it properly,but was that a tattoo at the side of his neck? If it was,it was surely pretty hot. Dan Lodge was quite a good looking man himself,no wonder he had given birth to two Greek gods.

Before he caught me staring, I focused on my mom and tried to make small talk.

As the conversation around the table continued, Kaden asked me a sudden question. "Are you the Serena Santos, my defense attorney?" His voice was smooth and so deep.

I paused for a moment,trying to think. "Wait.. you are the Kaden Lodge, my newest client suing his brother for defamation? The one I had to meet earlier today but he canceled and shifted to tomorrow?"

He nodded, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "Yes,that's me. Things are about to get interesting,I suppose."

Surprised by the unexpected connection, I pressed for more information. "So, the brother you're suing is your twin, Cameron?"

Kaden nodded again, a smirk playing on his lips. "Fuck yeah."

Cameron's eyes darkened, and he retorted, "You're going to lose the case, just like you always do. A born loser."

"You are just simply a pained motherfucker," Kaden shrugged.

Their father, Dan, intervened, attempting to diffuse the tension. "Boys, let's not ruin the evening with legal matters. Focus on the food, everyone,shall we?"

My mom gestured toward a particular dish, a name I couldn't quite catch in the midst of the simmering drama. After the very awkward dinner filled with strained tensions was over,I found myself being led to the room where I would spend the night. Mom showed me in with a warm smile, assuring me that I would find everything I needed and she would check in later.

As the door swung open, I was met with the sight of a room that could rival a five-star hotel. And the whole room was painted and decorated with a mixture of blue and white,my two favorite colors.The queen-sized bed was adorned with plush pillows and a luxurious duvet while the large windows framed by the heavy curtains offered a view of the moonlit garden outside.

Taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of the room, I decided to draw a relaxing bath. When I emerged from the bathroom twenty minutes later wrapped in a fluffy towel, I nearly slipped out of shock. There, standing in the room, was Cameron.

I instinctively tightened the grip on my towel, my heart racing. "What the hell are you doing here?" I hissed."You scared the shit out of me!"

Cameron took two giant strides and closed the space between us. Him being six foot and three inches tall meant that he was towering over my 5'6 frame. "You're quite the actress, Serena. Pretending you didn't know me during dinner."he said,his expression amused.

I rolled my eyes, the shock giving way to irritation. "You're quite a great liar,Cameron. You could've mentioned you had a freaking twin brother."

"Why would I?" he calmly asked. "We hate each other. Like hell,the bastard is even suing me just for a silly misunderstanding. Is that the person I should have told you about?"

"Well yeah. Even if you did mention you had an evil twin or something,it would have been better than keeping totally mute.Thank God you guys aren't identical,I would have had a heart attack tonight."

He stifled a smile and then said,"So you are his attorney.Now you know who he is suing,what's gonna happen now? You wouldn't do that to me,would you?"

My eyebrows shot up. "So, what? You hope I'll be on your side and defend you?"

He shrugged, a mischievous look in his eyes. "It would be a pleasant surprise."

I sighed deeply. "I'm his lawyer, Cameron. My loyalty is to the law, not personal relationships."

He flashed a cocky smile. "Fair enough."

And right then,my towel started to loosen and he helped me grab it just in time,the warmth of his fingers making my skin tingle a little bit. He gave a knowing smile I so desperately wanted to slap off.

"Uhm.." I cleared my throat,finding my voice again."You are actually standing too close to me right now."

"Are you affected by me?" He raised an eyebrow.

I mean,who wouldn't be? I was naked and fragile underneath my towel and him looking like he had just stepped out of a magazine's cover wasn't even helping matters. I caught a whiff of his scent, his usual mix of musk and amber that I absolutely loved.

He was slowly sliding his palm up my thigh.It was large, veiny and to me, represented the very essence of masculinity. And as his palm rested on my thighs, my body was filled with nostalgia. Goosebumps began to set in when I remembered that same palm on my neck while his deep voice whispered "be a good girl and take it" as I was being penetrated by his thick veiny cock.

As I stared at him talking, my nipples began to get harder by the minute.

He traced his fingers across my wrist,swirling across my veins, following the line of each. I watched with rising anticipation as his lips touched my wrist causing some kind of sensation I remembered quite well.

My breath hitched as I felt how soft his lips were and how I desperately needed them on mine. His other hand was quick to grace my back and then he leaned in and landed another kiss to my shoulder, lingering at my neck.

He didn't kiss me but brushed a finger up my throat in excruciatingly slow movements.

And then there was his intense stare, with those deep green eyes that was going to be the end of me.

"Admit it, you're still attracted to me, just like before,aren't you?" He whispered against my ears as his hands traveled underneath my towel,cupping my bare ass cheeks.

I had to stifle a moan from escaping my throat.Goodness,when last was I grabbed like that?

My cheeks flushed slightly and I pushed him away. "Get out of my room before someone sees us."

He teased, inching closer again, "You can't deny it, Serena. Take a good look at this dressing table. Remember how I fucked you once, on the dressing table back at your home,one stormy night?"

I shut my eyes and opened them quickly,trying not to reminisce that night.

"I don't know why you're trying to bring up past memories but I am celibate now and I intend to keep it that way," I said in a small voice.

He looked surprised and arched his perfectly shaped brow."Really? Celibate? Since when?"

"Since we broke up a year ago," I responded.

"You're dead serious?" He asked with a glimmer in his eyes."Are you trying to tell me that I am the very last man that was inside you? Which means,I am also going to be the first one again after a year? This is sick."

Striving to sound casual I said,"Don't get your hopes up,Cameron. It's been a year and of course I do not want you anymore."

"You don't want me anymore?" I could feel his fingers moving inside my thighs,close enough to my pussy. Dang it! My thighs were already so slippery at this point.

"So why are you soaking wet when I haven't even touched you properly yet?

Before I could respond, Mom's voice echoed from outside the door. "Serena, dear, are you settled in?"

Panic flashed in my eyes as we saw the door knob turn. I shot Cameron a worried look. "Did you lock the door?"

His reply was quick."Uh, no, I didn't."

SERENA'S POV

My eyes darted to the door, wondering what would happen if it swung open at that very moment.

"Was just fucking with ya, it's locked." Cameron said with a devilish smirk.

"I'd be right there Mom!" I called loudly and then whispered to him."She cannot see you here"

"What do you mean? This is my house."

I pushed him toward the bathroom. "Hide in there. I'll figure something out."

"Wait, you expect me to stay in your bathroom and hide like a criminal?"

"Don't be impossible and keep that deep voice of yours down before she hears you from outside," I said in my smallest voice throwing him a warning look.

Just as I directed him to the bathroom and closed the door,I adjusted the towel on my chest and made way to my room door,opening it.

I quickly threw on a casual smile, hoping to appear unfazed. "Hey, Mom. Sorry, I was just finishing up in the bath."

Mom glanced around, her sharp eyes narrowing as she entered. "I can smell a man's cologne. Were any of the twins in here?"

I hesitated, my mind racing. "Oh, yeah. Cameron came by to say hi and welcome me. Left a few minutes ago."

Her suspicion lingered and then after a second it was gone. She embraced me warmly. "I'm just so happy to see you after such a long time dear,"

I hugged her back tightly."I'm sorry, Mom. I know I haven't been able to come see you since you stepped foot in New York. Work has been crazy."

Mom reassured me, "It's okay, sweetheart. I understand." At that moment,her phone rang.

" I was going to tell you something important, but let's talk after I take this call.It has to do with the wedding"

I nodded vigorously and watched her exit the room.

I exhaled a breath I didn't realize I was holding, grateful for the temporary reprieve. As I was going to shut the door,Kaden suddenly appeared, lingering at the doorway with both hands firmly dug into his pockets.

He had an expression on his face I couldn't quite read when he asked,"Mind if I stand here?"

"You're already standing here, Kaden."

"So, how does it feel to know your mom is marrying my dad?"

I sighed, feeling a pang of guilt. "Honestly, I haven't talked to her much about it. I feel like a bad daughter for not knowing she had someone so serious in her life."

Kaden shrugged. "It happens. Life gets busy. Besides, it's not like we're the most traditional family, right?"

"Yeah,but still." I rubbed on the back of my neck awkwardly while I shifted my weight from one foot to the other. It was so odd to be standing there chatting with him while I was still horny and soaking wet. Christ,he was incredibly sexy. I could see the tattoo on the side of his neck clearly now. It was a butterfly shaped tattoo and it was so hot,that I wanted to run my fingers over them and...

"You know,isn't it remarkable that my attorney is going to be my baby sis?" He gave a lopsided grin,cutting me off from my thoughts.

Was that a dimple digging his cheek? Jeesh. What kind of temptation was this?

I cleared my throat,gaining composure.

Baby sis?

"I am going to be your step-sister," I corrected."And I am definitely not a baby."

No way in hell I wanted to be related by blood to this very gorgeous man standing before me.

"Also," I added firmly."We aren't even sure yet if the wedding would hold or not."

His raised brow hinted at a challenge. "Are you planning to break up the marriage already?"

I shook my head. "No, I just want to be sure my mom is genuinely happy. I owe her that much."

There was a short pause and then he spoke again."You know, I didn't realize you were so pretty. If I knew, I wouldn't have bailed on that meeting earlier."

Heat rushed to my cheeks, and a shiver ran down my spine as he casually removed a thread from my wet blonde hair. I brushed it off, trying to keep cool."Well, now you know."

Our moment was interrupted when Mom returned and Kaden excused himself with a casual "see you around."

Alone with my mother, she dropped a bombshell. "Serena, I've been thinking. Why don't you move in fully after the wedding?"

I blinked in surprise. "Move in? Mom, it's a big step. I have my own life, my own place."

Mom's eyes held a hopeful gleam. "I know, dear, but it would mean the world to me. I just really want to make up for lost times. And I want us all to be one big happy family. You do not have to make your decision now,but just promise me you would think about it?"

I nodded numbly. She kissed my cheek,told me to get some rest before leaving and I finally shut the door.

"Cameron,you can come out now." I said gently.

"So,you were having a chat with my brother too?" He asked me with a slight frown."I could hear his voice."

"He just happened to check in," I responded and bit my lip.

He stepped closer to me and I held my breath obviously affected by the close proximity and the way he looked at me.

"I have a party to attend that I am late for now,thanks to you. See you around."

And with that, he walked out. I threw my hands in the air in frustration. Great! He turned me on and then walked away like it was nothing.

Cameron Lodge,I would get you for this.

The next morning, I quickly called Katy to inform her of the turn of events while I prepared for work.

"This is the kind of drama you need in that boring life of yours!" She exclaimed on the other end of the line.

I couldn't help but chuckle, running my fingers through my honey-blonde waves that fell all the way to my back.

I stood before the mirror adjusting the pencil pleated skirt hugging my curves, it's hemline teasing just above my knees which elongated my shapely legs in the two-inch heels I wore. My top was neatly tucked into the skirt, my slim waist and voluptuous figure very prominent.

"Maybe too much drama Katy," I replied, reaching for my makeup bag. I carefully applied eyeliner to make my chocolate eyes pop and added a touch of crimson lipstick to my naturally pink, full lips.

Katy, ever the conspirator, wasted no time in suggesting. "So, is it Operation sabotage your mom's wedding?."

I smirked, "Yes, and the sooner, the better. I can't stay in this mad house for too long."

Breakfast that morning was awkward. I avoided Cameron's gaze, unable to face the intensity in his eyes after what had transpired the night before. I hurriedly finished my meal and made a hasty exit, eager to escape the tense atmosphere.

Later that evening, Kaden arrived at my office, looking effortlessly sexy in a form-fitting suit. The colors, blue and white, were my favorites, showcasing his strong physique. He was slightly late, so our meeting was brief.

I watched stupidly as Kaden got up, his words barely registering in my mind. "I'll see you at home, Serena. I have somewhere else to be," he said, his voice pulling me back to reality. I nodded absentmindedly, still processing his sudden departure.After working for another fifteen minutes, I got out of the building and began my drive home.

My car suddenly jerked to a halt after only three minutes on the road. I tried to restart the engine, but it refused to cooperate. With a groan of annoyance, I pulled over to the side of the road.

I reached for my phone, intending to call my trusted mechanic, but his number was unreachable. Leaning against my car, I contemplated on my next move, when a car pulled up slowly beside me.

It was a sleek, white BMW. The driver's side door opened, and Kaden stepped out, a concerned look on his face. "What's the problem?" he asked.

I blinked, momentarily stunned by his unexpected presence. "My car just stopped, and it won't start again," I replied, my frustration evident.

Kaden nodded, his gaze shifting to the engine. "Let me take a look," he offered.I couldn't help but notice that he had removed his suit jacket, revealing a crisp white long-sleeved shirt. The first two buttons were undone, and he casually rolled up his sleeves to his elbows, revealing his strong forearms.

As he leaned over the engine, his silver chain dangled and caught the setting sun, glimmering against his tanned skin. The ripple of his muscles were visible beneath his shirt and I found my eyes involuntarily drifting to his hands, marveling at their strength.

I watched him work, admiring his focused expression,his perfect full brows knitted together.

After a few attempts, he straightened up, a hint of disappointment in his eyes. "I'm sorry, Serena. I've tried everything, but it seems like we'll need to call a tow truck. The car is parked wrongly, and it's best to get it fixed tomorrow," he explained.

"Thank you for trying, Kaden," I replied, as I hugged myself and gave a small smile.

He gestured toward his car. "Do you want a ride back home? It's getting late, and it's the least I can do," he offered.

Did I want a ride back home? Was December 25th Christmas Day?

"Yes,thank you for offering."

And just like that,I was sure I was walking to my doom. Oh and I didn't want to be saved.