Brendon and Matteo

The sprawling glass-and-stone villa overlooking the crashing dark waves below was filled with tension. Standing together under the dim amber lighting of the foyer were the three men, their dark shirts matching the dangerous aura of the evening. ​You stood frozen in the doorway, your breath catching as Brendon stepped forward, wearing a smooth, practiced smile that didn't reach his eyes. ​Welcome to the retreat, darling, Brendon murmured smoothly, his arm resting casually around your waist, though his eyes drifted past your shoulder. ​Following close behind you was your best friend, Mia, looking equally confused and pale. Beside her stood Matteo, his massive, muscular frame radiating an immediate, suffocating aura of dominance. Matteo’s cold, sharp eyes scanned the room, instantly sensing that something was deeply wrong. ​What is this, Brendon? you demanded, pulling away from his touch. You said this was a private trip for just the two of us. ​Brendon chuckled, a low, nervous sound, as he finally let his mask slip. Relax. It's just a game. A high-level exchange between partners who appreciate... fresh horizons.It didn't take a genius to read between the lines. As the night progressed, Brendon’s subtle touches toward Mia, his lingering glances, and the way he positioned himself next to her made the horrific truth blindingly obvious. Brendon hadn’t brought you here for a partner swap out of boredom; he had orchestrated the entire sick setup because he wanted Mia, and he figured trading you was the only way to claim her without starting an all-out cartel war. You stood on the outdoor stone terrace, the ocean wind whipping through your hair as the fury boiled in your chest. You turned to confront Brendon, but before you could speak, a heavy, calloused hand gripped your arm. You spun around. It was Matteo. His buzz cut and carved jawline gave him a terrifying, statuesque appearance.