And Then, The World Ended

Chapter 44: V

I watch as they plan their next move, anticipation thrumming through me. The stakes are higher than ever, and yet, here I stand, about to introduce an even more complex layer to our dynamic. I take a steadying breath, knock on their door, and hear Noah's muffled voice granting me entrance.

I step into the room, my gaze immediately locking with Noah's. Hayes is there too; their presence washes over me like a wave. I've kept my distance, knowing my true role must remain concealed. But now, I'm here to reveal a different truth—the depth of my feelings.

"Guys, we need to talk," I begin, my voice steady despite the turmoil within me. "There's something I need to get off my chest." I take a step forward, the tension in the room escalating with each beat of silence. "I—"

I pause, searching their faces, hoping they'll sense the words I can't yet bring myself to say. Finally, I steel myself and continue. "I have feelings for both of you. Noah, you're brave and compassionate, and Hayes, your strength and charm are undeniable. I couldn't ignore what I feel any longer."

Noah's eyes widen, a flush creeping up his neck. "V, I—"

"It's okay if you don't feel the same way," I interrupt. "I just needed to be honest. I won't let this compromise our mission."

Hayes remains quiet, his eyes darkening with unspoken words. He takes a hesitant step forward, closing the distance between us. "V, we—"

Noah cuts in, his eyes shining with an unspoken question. I move forward as well, unable to resist the pull any longer. "We don't have to decide anything right now," I murmur, my gaze flicking between them. "But I couldn't stand the thought of keeping this to myself any longer."

Before either of them can respond, I close the distance, capturing Noah's lips with mine. He tastes like surprise and curiosity, and something more that sparks a fire within me. As I pull away, I feel rather than see Hayes' gaze, hot on my skin.

Then, slowly, Noah turns, his eyes locking with Hayes'. The air in the room shifts, thickens. Without a word, Hayes takes a step toward Noah, his eyes never leaving his. And then, their lips meet, a mirror of the kiss I shared with Noah moments ago.

I exhale sharply, unable to contain the rush of desire that floods through me. I step forward, drawn by their passion like a magnet, bridging the gap between us. My hands find their places, one on Noah's waist, the other on Hayes' shoulder, drawing them closer together. They break apart, breathless, their eyes flicking to me.

Without warning, Noah closes the distance, his lips crashing against mine once more. This time, there's a newfound hunger, an urgency that matches my own. Hayes moves in sync, his lips finding the sensitive spot just below my ear, sending shivers down my spine.

Our passion builds, a whirlwind of desire and unspoken words. Noah and Hayes, two sides of the same coin, each delivering their own brand of fire to my veins. I feel like I'm burning alive, and yet, I never want this moment to end.

Eventually, we part, breathless, our gazes locked. There are no words needed to convey the depth of what just happened. I know that we've crossed a threshold, a point of no return. And as we stand there, hearts pounding, I know that whatever comes next, we'll face it together.

"We shouldn't," Noah finally breathes, breaking the spell binding us together.

He looks at me, his eyes searching, as if seeking confirmation or absolution. I want to assure him that what we're doing is right, that our feelings are valid, but instead, I remain silent, letting him voice his concerns.

"This mission is dangerous enough without adding more complications. We need to stay focused." Noah's gaze flicks between Hayes and me, his brows knit together. "And we don't even know how you feel, V. Are these feelings real, or is it the simulation messing with your head?"