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MidReal Story
The Billionaire Rebound
Scenario:Shane Weber has led a hard broken life, a poor orphan, and his girlfriend is leaving him for a more richer prospect. But his fortune is about to change dramatically. Shane inherited immense wealth from his grandfather, shocking everyone. He was the heir to the only multi-googolaire family in the world. He endures constant criticism and judgment from those around him. He vowed that those who labeled him a failure would eventually bow at his feet. How will he use his new-found wealth to shape those around him, as he reclaims his life?. With a new-found sense of responsibility, Shane will get revenge on those who mistreated him? Will he succeed?
Create my version of this story
Shane Weber
He is a previously impoverished orphan who was raised in foster care. He is resilient, determined, and proud. Shane had a tough childhood with no family, living in poverty and being treated poorly by those around him. His life took a dramatic turn when he inherited his grandfather's vast fortune, making him the wealthiest person in the world. Despite past struggles, he remains proud of how far he's come and the impact he can now make on others.
Alex
He is Shane's best friend and Bethany’s brotherinlaw. He is sarcastic, loyal, and mischievous. Alex often provides comic relief but also stands by Shane through thick and thin. His sarcastic remarks often ease tensions but also reflect his playful nature within their closeknit group of friends.
Bethany
She is Shane’s best friend and Matt’s wife. She is caring, loyal, and understanding. Bethany stood by Shane through his hardships and supported him emotionally after his breakup with Sasha. Her marriage to Matt showed her value for longterm relationships built on mutual respect and support, contrasting with Sasha's superficial approach.
I was an orphan, a poor boy who had been in foster care.
I didn’t have a family, and my life was hard and miserable.
My girlfriend left me for a richer guy, and I thought my life couldn’t get any worse.
But then, I received news that changed my life forever.
My grandfather, who I had never known or met, was one of the wealthiest men in the world.
And when he died, he left behind a legacy of over two hundred billion dollars.
I was his only heir.
My life was about to take a dramatic turn.
I went from being a poor boy with nothing to being one of the richest men in the world.
But with this newfound wealth came power, and with power came people who wanted to get close to me for their own gain.
I had to navigate this new world carefully and make sure that I didn’t let anyone take advantage of me.
I had to be smart and make good decisions, but at the same time, I couldn’t let my guard down and let people walk all over me.
It was going to be a challenge, but I was up for it.
I sat in my new penthouse apartment, staring at my phone.
The city lights twinkled through the floor-to-ceiling windows, a stark contrast to the small studio apartment I had lived in just a few days ago.
My thumb hovered over the contact list, and I hesitated for a moment before making a decision.
I needed to talk to my friends, but I wasn’t sure how they would react to my new situation.
These guys had stuck by me through thick and thin, sharing what little food we had when I couldn’t afford to buy any, letting me crash on their couches when I couldn’t pay rent.
But now that I was suddenly one of the richest men in the world, would they treat me differently?
Would they see me as some kind of meal ticket, or would they still be the same friends they had always been?
I took a deep breath and started typing out a message, but then I deleted it and tried again.
I didn’t know what to say or how to say it. Finally, after several failed attempts, I decided to keep it simple.
I opened up our old group chat and sent a quick text: "Hey guys. Can we meet? There’s something I need to tell you."
The responses came almost immediately: "Sure man" from Toby and "Pizza at my place?" from Kyle.
I smiled as I read their messages.
These guys were my brothers, and I knew that no matter what happened, they would always be there for me.
We had been through so much together, and I couldn’t imagine going through this new chapter in my life without them by my side.
I typed out a quick response: "Sounds good. See you soon."
And then I closed my eyes and let myself relax for the first time in days.
As I walked into Kyle's apartment, the familiar smell of pepperoni and cheese greeted me.
Toby looked up from the pizza box and said, "So, what's this big news you couldn't text us about?"
I took a deep breath and replied, "Guys, I'm now worth two hundred googol dollars, and I need your help to make sure I don't lose myself in all of this."
I sat back in Kyle's worn leather couch, watching my friends process the news while half-eaten pizza grew cold on the coffee table.
The silence stretched uncomfortably.
Kyle fidgeted with his beer bottle, peeling at the label, while Toby stared at the floor.
I'd known these guys since college - they'd seen me at my lowest, sleeping on this very couch when I couldn't make rent.
Now I was worth googols, and I could see the weight of that sinking in.
Finally, Toby looked up at Kyle, their eyes meeting in silent communication.
A slight nod passed between them, and Kyle set his bottle down with purpose.
"We've got your back, man," he said firmly.
"But you have to promise us one thing," Toby added, leaning forward with a serious expression.
"Anything," I replied, feeling a mix of relief and curiosity.
"Don't let the money change who you are," Toby said, his voice steady but earnest.
I leaned back into the couch, the same one I'd slept on countless times, and pulled out my phone.
Opening a travel app, I scrolled through exotic destinations while explaining my idea for an all-expenses-paid guys' trip.
Kyle's eyes widened at the private islands and luxury resorts, but Toby interrupted, suggesting we start smaller - maybe a weekend camping trip like we used to do.
The familiarity of his proposal hit me.
Even with billions, I'm still the same guy who loves sleeping under the stars with my best friends.
I lean back on Kyle's worn leather couch, watching my friends debate vacation spots while finishing their beers.
Kyle points to a photo of a private island resort on his phone, but Toby keeps pulling up images of our favorite camping spot by the lake.
The same spot where they helped me through my breakup with Sasha last summer, passing around cheap beer and burnt marshmallows.
My phone buzzes with another wealth management notification, but I silence it, focusing instead on Toby's story about our last camping disaster.
The familiar laughter and casual banter in Kyle's cramped apartment feel more valuable than all the billions in my new accounts.
Kyle chuckled, "Remember when Toby tried to cook those fish and nearly set the whole campsite on fire?"
Toby grinned sheepishly, "Hey, at least I didn't lose the tent poles like someone else we know."
I laughed, feeling the tension ease away, "Alright, alright, camping it is then—just promise me no more culinary experiments, Toby."
I pull out my phone's notes app while Kyle grabs a pen and paper from his cluttered desk.
We're going to plan this camping trip the right way, not like our usual last-minute adventures.
Toby starts listing off the gear we'll need: tents, sleeping bags, coolers for beer, and a portable grill.
The routine feels grounding after weeks of meetings with wealth managers and lawyers.
Kyle suggests we could upgrade from our usual cheap equipment now that I have the means, but before I can agree, Toby interrupts.
"Remember that time your bargain-store tent collapsed in the rain? We all had to cram into my four-person tent. We laughed until sunrise."
The memory settles it.
We'll use our old gear, keep things real.
Kyle smirked, "Fine, but if it rains again, I'm calling dibs on the dry spot."
Toby chuckled, "As long as you don't snore like a chainsaw this time."
I nodded, grinning at the thought of another night under the stars with my best friends.
I check the weather forecast on my phone while Kyle and Toby debate who's bringing the coffee maker.
The lake is two hours away, so we'll need to leave by 4 AM to catch the 6:15 sunrise.
Kyle groans at the early start time, but agrees when I mention the fish bite better at dawn.
Toby pulls up an old photo on his phone from our last sunrise fishing trip - three broke guys in ratty camping chairs, holding up tiny bluegills with proud grins.
Looking at our younger selves, I realize some of my happiest moments cost nothing.
Kyle leaned back, a nostalgic smile on his face, "Man, those were the days. Who knew we'd be here now, planning another trip like this?"
Toby nodded, his voice softening, "Yeah, and who would've thought you'd be the one footing the bill this time?"
I shrugged, feeling a warmth spread through me, "Guess some things change, but the important stuff stays the same."
I pull out my phone and check the time - 11:30 PM.
"What if we left now instead of 4 AM?" I suggest, already feeling restless on Kyle's couch.
Kyle perks up from his slouched position, suddenly alert despite the late hour.
Toby grabs his already-packed bag from beside the door, clearly thinking the same thing.
We quickly gather our gear, tossing sleeping bags and coolers into Kyle's truck.
The familiar chaos of loading up reminds me of countless spontaneous trips before my inheritance.
Kyle grinned, "Spontaneity is our specialty, right? Let's make this one for the books."
Toby laughed, "Yeah, and maybe this time we'll actually catch something bigger than a bluegill."
I nodded, feeling the thrill of adventure surge through me, "Let's go make some new memories."
I slide into the passenger seat of Kyle's old pickup truck, the worn leather seat familiar against my back.
The engine rumbles to life as Toby tosses the last cooler in the truck bed.
Kyle flips on the headlights, illuminating the empty street ahead.
The dashboard clock reads 11:47 PM.
Through the windshield, stars pierce the darkness above, clearer than I've seen them in months.
The truck's tires crunch over loose gravel as we pull away from the curb.
Kyle turns up the radio, and the same country station we've always listened to fills the cab.
I lean back, letting the music wash over me as we cruise past darkened storefronts and empty sidewalks.
The smell of old leather seats and pine air freshener fills the cab.
Toby dozes in the backseat, his snores punctuating Johnny Cash's smooth voice.
The dashboard clock reads 1:15 AM.
We pass the diner where I used to work double shifts, its neon lights dimmed for the night.
The sight stirs memories of exhausted days living paycheck to paycheck.
I glance at the dashboard clock showing 4:45 AM.
Kyle takes the turn onto the winding mountain road that leads to our favorite overlook.
The truck's headlights cut through the pre-dawn darkness, illuminating the guardrails and warning signs we've seen countless times.
Toby wakes up in the backseat, yawning and rubbing his eyes.
"Where are we?"
Kyle points ahead, "Almost there."
We round another curve, and the familiar pull-off comes into view.
Kyle parks in our usual spot - the one where we used to drink cheap beer and talk about escaping our dead-end jobs.
The eastern sky begins to lighten, painting the valley below in shades of gray.
We climb onto the truck's hood, the metal still warm from the long drive.
I lean against the hood, feeling the residual heat through my jacket as Kyle reaches into his backpack.
He pulls out his battered silver thermos - the same one he's carried to every camping trip for the past five years.
The familiar click of the cap opening makes me smile.
The rich aroma of his signature dark roast fills the crisp mountain air as he pours the steaming coffee into three plastic cups.
Toby grabs his cup first, warming his hands around it.
Kyle passes me mine, and we raise our cups in unison.
I cradle the warm cup in my hands as the first rays of sunlight peek over the mountain ridge.
Kyle shifts on the truck hood beside me, his breath visible in the morning air.
The familiar metallic taste of his strong coffee fills my mouth - the same brand he's bought for years from the discount store.
Toby points to a patch of sky turning from gray to orange, then pink streaks emerge above the treeline.
We sit in comfortable silence, shoulder to shoulder on the cooling metal hood, watching nature's display.
The sun finally breaks over the horizon, and for a moment, everything feels possible.
I set my empty coffee cup on the hood and glance at Kyle, "We should hike to Eagle Peak. The view's better from there."
He checks his watch, "We've got forty minutes before the sun's fully up."
Toby hops off the hood and heads to the truck bed, grabbing our backpacks.
I dig out three flashlights from the glove compartment and hand them out.
The beam of my light catches the worn trail marker as we start up the familiar path.
Our boots crunch on gravel and pine needles.
I lead the way, my beam cutting through the last stretch of dense forest.
The light grows dimmer as dawn approaches.
The path narrows and steepens, forcing us to climb over exposed roots and loose rocks.
Kyle's breathing gets heavier behind me.
Toby calls out warnings about slick spots.
Finally, we emerge onto the flat granite outcrop of Eagle Peak.
The rising sun transforms the misty valley below into a canvas of orange and pink.
Toby drops his backpack and sits on the edge, dangling his feet over the hundred-foot drop.
Kyle stands beside him, looking out over the valley, "You know, I've been thinking about moving out here permanently."
Toby turns his head sharply, surprise etched on his face, "Seriously? What about your job in the city?"
Kyle shrugs, a hint of a smile playing on his lips, "I've got an offer to work remotely; this place just feels like home."
I pull my backpack off and start removing the breakfast supplies I packed earlier - thick ham sandwiches wrapped in wax paper, a thermos of hot chocolate, and some fresh oranges.
Kyle helps spread out our old plaid blanket on the granite, smoothing the wrinkles while Toby arranges some flat rocks as makeshift seats.
The familiar scent of coffee mingles with pine as I pour steaming cups.
Kyle unwraps his sandwich first, "You still remember I like extra mustard."
I nod, handing him a cup, "Some things you never forget."
Toby takes a bite of his sandwich, chewing thoughtfully before speaking, "So, when do you plan to make the move?"
Kyle looks out over the valley, his voice steady, "By the end of the month, if everything goes as planned."
I hold my steaming coffee cup up against the pink-streaked sky, the familiar scent of Kyle's dark roast mingling with the crisp mountain air.
"To new beginnings and breathtaking views," I say, my voice carrying across our granite perch.
Kyle and Toby raise their cups in response, the ceramic clinking softly.
Kyle's eyes remain fixed on the valley below, his expression peaceful as he contemplates his upcoming move.
Toby shuffles closer on his rock seat, shoulder brushing mine as we drink.
The coffee's warmth spreads through my chest while dawn's light illuminates our faces.
The valley stretches before us, vast and inviting, as we silently embrace the promise of change.
I lean against a boulder, watching Kyle's finger trace the mountain ridges on the map spread out on the granite surface.
He shifts closer to me, his voice filled with excitement as he points out the route he wants to explore after moving here.
"See this peak? I've heard it's the best spot to watch the sunrise."
His hand accidentally brushes mine as he gestures toward a distant snow-capped peak.
Our eyes meet briefly, and for a moment, I feel a flutter in my chest.
The morning sun casts a warm glow over Kyle's brown eyes, highlighting the flecks of gold I've never noticed before.
I quickly look away, focusing on the map as he continues to describe the hiking trails and hidden waterfalls waiting to be discovered.
I pull up my phone and start browsing real estate listings while Kyle continues describing his favorite trails.
The mountain properties catch my eye - sprawling villas with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the valleys he's pointing to.
I zoom in on a 15-acre estate just twenty minutes from Eagle Peak, complete with a guest house where Kyle could stay.
The price tag reads $12 million, but I imagine waking up every morning to the same breathtaking view we're witnessing now.
Toby leans over my shoulder, peering at the screen, "Wow, that's quite a place."
I quickly switch apps, not ready to reveal I'm house hunting here.
Kyle notices the sudden change, "What are you looking at?"
"Just some hiking gear," I reply, trying to sound casual.
Toby chuckles, nudging me playfully, "Sure, because hiking boots cost twelve million dollars."
Kyle raises an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on his lips, "You planning on buying a mountain or something?"
I shift on the rocky ground, watching Kyle trace another trail on his map with enthusiasm.
The morning sun warms my face as I gather my courage.
"I've been thinking about moving here too," I admit quietly.
Kyle's head snaps up, his eyes meeting mine with surprise before a wide grin spreads across his face.
He immediately scoots closer, his shoulder pressing against mine as he points to different areas on the map.
"This valley has amazing properties," he says excitedly, his finger circling a particular region.
"I know all the best spots."
The future feels tangible, and for the first time, I see it clearly.
I lean against the rock face while Kyle spreads his map wider across our laps.
His finger traces the outline of a secluded valley, pointing out potential property locations.
"This area has some amazing views," he says, his shoulder pressing against mine as he points to a spot near a winding creek.
"The morning light there is incredible."
I watch his finger move across the map, imagining waking up to that view every day.
"I've been looking for a place with privacy and a view," I admit, my voice barely above a whisper.
Kyle's eyes meet mine, his smile widening.
"Then you're in luck," he says, his voice filled with genuine excitement.
"I know every trail and viewpoint in these mountains. I can be your guide."
I nod, feeling a sense of possibility wash over me.
"I could use someone who knows the area," I admit, my hands trembling slightly as I fold the corner of the map.
Toby watches us with a knowing smile before standing up and brushing off his pants.
Toby glances between us, a mischievous glint in his eye.
"I'll leave you two to plan your mountain empire," he says with a wink.
Kyle laughs, leaning closer to me, "So, when do we start this adventure?"
I sit beside Kyle on a fallen log while he traces hiking routes on the worn map spread across our laps.
His shoulder presses against mine as he leans in, pointing out a hidden waterfall trail.
When his hand moves to circle another spot, his fingers brush against mine holding the edge of the map.
Instead of pulling away, his touch lingers.
My breath catches as his warm fingers rest against my skin for several heartbeats.
The map trembles slightly in my grip while Kyle continues talking about trail conditions, his voice softer than before.
I look up, meeting his gaze, and realize this is the beginning of something real.
I watch Kyle quickly pull his hand away as Toby crashes through the underbrush, waving his phone excitedly.
"I found it," he says, his voice filled with excitement.
"I found the perfect place."
Kyle and I exchange a look before turning to Toby.
"What is it?"
Kyle asks, his voice filled with curiosity.
Toby holds up his phone, showing us a listing for a three-bedroom cabin just ten minutes from where we are now.
"It's listed below market value," he explains, scrolling through the listing details.
"The owner needs to sell quickly."
Kyle's eyes meet mine again, this time with renewed interest.
"Let me see," he says, reaching for Toby's phone.
As Kyle scrolls through the photos of the rustic exterior and wraparound deck, his smile widens.
"This is perfect," he says, looking at me with excitement in his eyes.
Toby leans against a nearby tree, watching us with a knowing smile.
"It's on five private acres backing up to national forest," he explains, pointing to the location on the map spread across our laps.
"And there's a separate guest cottage perfect for visitors."
Kyle nudges my shoulder meaningfully as he hands the phone back to Toby.
I pull out my phone and dial the realtor's number while Kyle and Toby gather our breakfast remains.
The agent agrees to meet us in thirty minutes, and we quickly make our way down Eagle Peak's trail, our boots sliding on loose gravel as Kyle leads the way.
In the truck, Kyle's hand brushes mine as he reaches for the gear shift, sending a jolt of electricity through me.
Following the agent's texted directions, we wind through mountain roads until a "For Sale" sign appears.
The red cabin emerges through the trees, its wraparound porch exactly like the photos.
As we step out of the truck, Kyle turns to me with a grin.
"Ready to see our future?" he asks, his voice filled with anticipation.
I nod, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves, "Let's find out if this place is really meant for us."
I stand frozen on the cabin's front porch as Kyle's warm fingers intertwine with mine.
The realtor's voice fades into background noise while she unlocks the door.
Through the window, I glimpse the living room with its stone fireplace and rustic wooden beams.
Kyle squeezes my hand and leans close, his breath tickling my ear as he whispers those words.
His brown eyes hold mine, full of hope and something deeper.
Behind us, Toby pretends to study the deck railing, giving us space.
My pulse pounds as I process Kyle's meaning - not just sharing a property, but sharing a life.
I follow the realtor through the front door, Kyle's hand still linked with mine.
The stone fireplace dominates the living room, its amber flames casting dancing shadows across pine floors and exposed beams.
Kyle squeezes my hand as we move deeper into the space.
The realtor's voice fades into background noise while I absorb every detail - the worn leather couch, antique coffee table, and large windows framing mountain views.
When Kyle releases my hand to inspect the mantle, his fingertips trail across my palm.
I stand in the middle of the room, watching as Kyle runs his hand along the stone fireplace.
Sunlight streams through windows, illuminating dust motes in the air as he turns to face me.
His eyes shine with possibility as he speaks, describing where we could place a Christmas tree, how we'd spend winter evenings by the fire.
The realtor discreetly ushers Toby outside to explore the deck, leaving us alone.
Kyle crosses the room slowly, his eyes never leaving mine.
When he reaches me, he takes my hands in his, and my chest tightens at his touch.
He pulls me close, his familiar scent of coffee and pine enveloping me.
In that moment, I realize this cabin isn't just a dream—it's the beginning of our reality.
I lean against the living room window, Kyle's hands still wrapped around mine.
Footsteps echo from the hallway, and I glance up to see the realtor rushing toward us, her heels clicking on the hardwood floor.
Kyle releases my hands as she enters, her face flushed with excitement.
She clutches her phone tightly, her eyes shining with news.
"The previous buyer's financing fell through an hour ago," she explains breathlessly.
"We can offer a significant price reduction."
Kyle's face lights up as she rattles off the numbers.
He squeezes my arm excitedly, whispering calculations in my ear about our combined savings.
The realtor pulls out paperwork from her briefcase, suggesting we could close quickly if we're interested.
I stand at the rustic dining table, Kyle hovering close behind me.
The realtor points to each signature line with her manicured nail, explaining the terms in a rushed voice.
My hand trembles slightly as I grip the heavy fountain pen.
Kyle's warm presence against my back steadies me.
Golden sunlight streams through the windows, illuminating the room.
The scent of pine and leather fills the air.
Before touching pen to paper, I turn to meet Kyle's eyes.
In his gaze, I find the answer I've been searching for.
I grip the pen tightly, staring at the dotted line on the purchase agreement.
Kyle's hand rests on my shoulder, his thumb moving in gentle circles.
The realtor taps her nail on the signature spot, reminding me where to sign.
Outside, Toby paces on the wraparound porch, visible through the large windows.
My hand trembles slightly as I lower the pen.
Kyle squeezes my shoulder, and I feel his breath warm against my neck.
"Are you sure about this?" I whisper, my voice barely audible over the thudding of my heart.
Kyle leans closer, his voice steady and reassuring. "I've never been more certain of anything in my life."
The realtor clears her throat softly, her eyes darting between us. "It's now or never," she says with a knowing smile.
I grip the pen tighter, its weight solid in my hand.
Kyle's fingers brush against my chin, turning my face toward his.
The realtor steps back, giving us space in the sunlit dining room.
Kyle's brown eyes lock with mine, filled with certainty and warmth.
"Let's make this our forever home," he whispers, his voice soft but clear.
My heart pounds against my ribs as his thumb traces my jawline.
The purchase agreement lies waiting on the wooden table, but I can't look away from Kyle's face.
"Do you remember the first time we talked about this place?" Kyle asks, his voice laced with nostalgia.
I nod, a smile tugging at my lips. "You said it felt like the kind of house where stories are written."
The realtor shifts slightly, her expression softening as she watches us.
I grip the pen tightly, my hand hovering over the signature line.
Kyle's warm breath fans against my cheek as he speaks.
The realtor slides the purchase agreement a little closer, her eyes never leaving us.
Taking a deep breath, I lower the pen to the paper.
With deliberate strokes, I sign my name across the dotted line.
The ink flows smoothly from the fountain pen, leaving a trail of black script in its wake.
As I finish signing, the realtor beams with satisfaction.
She collects the documents, her movements swift and efficient.
But I don't look at her.
Instead, I focus on Kyle's hand squeezing my shoulder gently.
When I turn to face him, his eyes shine with joy and certainty.
He pulls me into a tight embrace, his voice whispering against my ear.
"I have a bottle of champagne in my backpack," I say, pulling the bottle out.
Kyle moves to the kitchen, searching for glasses.
The realtor offers to grab some flutes from her car, but Toby finds three ceramic mugs in one of the cabinets.
Kyle returns to my side, his hand resting on my lower back as I struggle with the cork.
It finally pops with a satisfying sound, foam spilling over my fingers.
Kyle catches the overflow with his mug, laughing as he does.
When I pour the champagne into our mismatched cups, the bubbles sparkle in the morning sunlight streaming through the windows.
Kyle raises his mug, his eyes meeting mine with a playful glint.
"To new beginnings and the stories we'll create here," he toasts, his voice full of promise.
I clink my mug against his, feeling the weight of our shared future in that simple gesture.
I lean against the stone fireplace, sipping my champagne from the ceramic mug.
Kyle pulls out a napkin and begins to sketch the furniture layout in the living room.
"I think a writing desk should go here," he says, drawing a small rectangle by the bay window.
He looks up at me, his eyes sparkling with memories of my childhood dreams of becoming an author.
Toby sprawls on the floor, his legs stretched out as he watches us with a lazy grin.
"And maybe a gaming corner over there," he suggests, pointing to the opposite corner of the room.
I nod, taking another sip of champagne.
The bubbles tickle my nose as I imagine the possibilities unfolding before us.
Kyle looks up at me again, his expression thoughtful.
"What about sleeping arrangements?"
His voice is low and deliberate, his eyes locking with mine in a way that makes my heart skip a beat.
The champagne feels warm in my chest as I meet his gaze. "Well," I say, my voice barely above a whisper.
"We do have three bedrooms to work with."
Kyle's lips curve into a smile, his eyes never leaving mine.
"Plenty of options."
He moves closer to me, his hand brushing against mine as he takes another sip of champagne.
The contact sends a shiver down my spine, but I try to focus on the conversation at hand.
"Maybe we can set up a guest room for Toby," I suggest, glancing down at our friend sprawled on the floor.
Toby looks up at us, his eyes sparkling with amusement.
"Yeah, yeah. You two lovebirds can have your own rooms. I'll crash in the guest room."
Kyle chuckles, shaking his head as he takes another sip of champagne.
"You're not exactly helping us plan this place out," he teases, nudging Toby playfully with his foot. Toby grins, rolling onto his side and propping himself up on one elbow.
"Hey, you know what they say: three's company."
I laugh, feeling a sense of warmth wash over me as I look at our little group huddled together in this empty house.
We've come so far since our college days, but we still have each other's backs no matter what.
As the afternoon sun casts long shadows through the windows, Kyle turns to me again.
"So where do you want our bed to be?" he asks, his voice low and husky in my ear.
I swallow hard, feeling my heart pound against my ribs as I look into his eyes.
"Right by the window," I reply, my voice steady despite the flutter in my chest.
Kyle nods, a slow smile spreading across his face. "Perfect spot to watch the sunrise together."
Toby chuckles from his spot on the floor. "Just make sure you keep the curtains closed, or I'll be getting an eyeful every morning."
I settle into the corner by the fireplace, pen in hand.
Kyle stands behind me, watching over my shoulder as I begin to sketch.
On the back of the purchase agreement, I draw built-in bookshelves framing a cushioned window seat.
It's the perfect spot to curl up with a novel on a snowy day, watching the flakes fall gently outside.
Kyle's fingers trace the outline of my drawing, his touch sending shivers down my spine.
"Maybe we can add a small coffee table there," he suggests, his voice low and thoughtful.
I nod, adding a small rectangle to the design.
As I finish drawing, Kyle's fingers linger on the paper, his touch warm against my hand.
I add reading lamps to either side of the window seat, imagining how cozy it will be on cold winter nights.
Kyle leans closer, his chest pressing against my back as he points out where the electrical outlets are located.
I walk through the cabin with Kyle, running my hand along the rough wooden walls.
We discuss paint colors, and I mention a deep blue shade I saw in a design magazine.
Kyle's eyes light up, and he pulls out his phone to show me a similar color he saved.
Our shoulders touch as we compare swatches, the realtor mentioning that the walls will need some prep work first.
Kyle insists we can handle it ourselves, demonstrating by scraping a small section with his keys.
The old paint flakes away, revealing solid wood beneath.
I lean against the kitchen counter, and Kyle moves closer, his presence making my heart race.
The late afternoon sun streams through the windows, casting a warm glow across his face.
He reaches out, his thumb gently caressing my cheek as his other hand finds my waist.
"This place could be our perfect retreat," he whispers, his brown eyes holding mine.
The tender touch sends electricity through my body.
Behind us, Toby deliberately rattles dishes in the sink, reminding us we're not alone.
I lean against the kitchen counter, watching Kyle's face light up at my suggestion to start painting tomorrow.
He pulls out his phone, already searching for the perfect shade of blue we discussed.
His other hand finds mine, squeezing it gently as he shows me different paint options.
Behind us, Toby deliberately rattles dishes in the sink, reminding us we're not alone.
"Let's get started," Kyle says, his voice filled with excitement.
Toby interrupts, rattling his car keys.
"If you want to make it to the hardware store before they close, I can give you a ride."
Kyle's enthusiasm is contagious as he measures the living room walls, calculating how much paint we'll need.
I follow him with a notepad, jotting down measurements while stealing glances at his focused expression.
I stand in the entryway, shrugging on my coat while Kyle checks his phone for the hardware store's hours.
Toby jingles his truck keys impatiently by the door.
When Kyle helps adjust my collar, his fingers linger on my neck, making me shiver.
The shopping list in my hand includes paint, brushes, and primer, but I'm more focused on the warmth of Kyle's touch.
He grabs his own jacket, our shoulders brushing as we move toward the door.
I step onto the front porch, Kyle close behind me.
His hand rests on my lower back, a comforting presence in the crisp mountain air.
Toby jingles his keys ahead of us.
Kyle pauses to lock the door, testing the handle twice.
He's already protective of our new home.
When he rejoins me, our fingers intertwine naturally.
We follow Toby down the gravel path where his truck waits.
The late afternoon sun casts a golden glow over its red paint.
I slide into the middle seat between Toby and Kyle, our thighs pressed together in the cramped space.
Kyle pulls out the shopping list while Toby starts the engine.
The familiar rumble and pine air freshener scent envelop us as we head toward town.
Kyle's hand rests on my knee, his thumb tracing small circles that make my skin tingle.
He reads items aloud - primer, brushes, blue paint for the living room.
The hardware store's paint section is a maze of colors and swatches.
Kyle holds up our paint samples next to the swatches on the wall, comparing them to the photos he took of our cabin's living room.
Toby pushes a cart filled with rollers, brushes, and drop cloths.
I lean against a shelf stacked with cans of primer.
Kyle's face lights up as he finds the perfect shade of blue.
"Found it!"
He holds up the paint swatch for me to see.
The color reminds me of a clear summer sky.
"It's perfect," I agree, my heart skipping a beat at his excited smile.
We add primer, paint trays, and a few more supplies to our growing pile.
Then we head toward the grocery section.
The aisles are lined with shelves of food and household essentials.
We grab pasta, sauce, and a bottle of wine for dinner tonight.
Toby throws in some marshmallows and chocolate for s'mores later, reminding us of our camping trips.
As we reach the checkout, Toby glances at me with a knowing smile.
"So, when are you two finally going to make it official?" he asks, his voice teasing but sincere.
Kyle chuckles, squeezing my hand gently. "Maybe sooner than you think," he replies, a hint of something more in his eyes.
We browse the liquor aisle, searching for the perfect wine to celebrate our new home.
Kyle scans the rows, his brow furrowed in concentration.
"Ah, this one," he says, picking up a bottle of red.
"It pairs well with pasta."
He adds it to our cart.
We continue down the aisle, grabbing glasses and a bottle opener.
As Kyle reaches for the opener, his hand brushes against mine.
Electricity shoots through me, my heart racing at his touch.
We make our way to the bakery counter, where Toby spots a chocolate cake on display.
His eyes light up.
"Ooh, we have to get that," he says, grabbing the cake and adding it to our cart.
"Remember how we always shared dessert after making big decisions?"
Kyle smiles, nodding in agreement.
"Like the time we decided to move in together," I say, a smile spreading across my face.
"Exactly," Toby replies, grinning.
"And now, you two are finally getting your own place. This calls for celebration."
Kyle adds fresh strawberries to our cart, whispering something in my ear as we walk away from the counter.
"I can't wait to feed these to you later."
I push our cart toward checkout while Kyle reads through our final shopping list.
Toby trails behind, juggling the cake box and wine bottles in his arms.
The cashier scans our items - paint supplies, groceries, and celebration treats.
Kyle's hand rests on my back as we unload the cart.
When the total appears on the screen, I reach for my wallet.
But Kyle stops me, his voice firm but gentle.
"Let's split it," he says, pulling out his own wallet.
"This is our first home. We should start it off right."
His words make me smile, reminding me that this is our adventure together.
At the register's card reader, Kyle's fingers brush against mine as we both try swiping our cards first.
I push the cart through the automatic doors while Kyle holds them open.
Our paint cans and grocery bags rattle as we make our way to Toby's truck.
The evening air hits us with a crisp pine scent, a familiar welcome to the mountains.
Kyle's hand finds mine naturally between trips loading supplies into the truck bed.
When I reach for another bag, Kyle pulls me close instead, pressing his forehead to mine.
The parking lot lights illuminate his face, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
"We're going to make this cabin perfect," he whispers, his breath warm against my skin.
Toby pretends to organize supplies in the truck bed, giving us a moment alone.
Kyle's thumb traces circles on my palm, sending shivers down my spine.
"Hey, you two lovebirds," Toby calls out, breaking the moment.
Kyle laughs softly, pulling back slightly but keeping his arm around me.
"Alright, alright," he says, glancing at Toby with a playful grin. "But seriously, there's something I need to ask you both."
I lean against the truck, Kyle's hand still in mine as he turns to Toby.
"Can we start painting tomorrow morning?"
Kyle asks, his eyes shining with excitement in the dim lot lights.
Toby nods immediately, pulling out his phone to check the weather app.
"Forecast says it'll be clear skies tomorrow," he confirms.
Kyle moves closer to me, his hand tightening around mine.
"I have this idea for the living room," he explains, his voice filled with enthusiasm.
"We can paint the accent wall a deep blue. It'll match the night sky perfectly."
His words paint a picture in my mind - our cabin nestled among the trees, a reflection of nature inside and out.
"And once we're done painting," Kyle continues, "we can arrange the furniture. The couch will go right by the window, so we can watch the sunsets together."
His hand squeezes mine gently as he speaks, his touch sending warmth through me in the cool night air.
Toby chuckles, shaking his head.
"You two have it all planned out, don't you?"
Kyle grins, glancing at me. "We've been dreaming about this for a long time."
I lean against Toby's truck, Kyle's hand still intertwined with mine as he checks nearby restaurants on his phone.
His other hand scrolls through options, and he pauses at an Italian place ten minutes away.
"Look at this," he says, showing me the menu.
My mouth waters at the thought of warm pasta and fresh bread.
"That sounds perfect," I say, smiling up at him.
Toby climbs into the driver's seat, starting the engine as Kyle helps me up into the middle.
His hands linger on my waist a moment longer than necessary before he climbs in beside me.
The truck's cabin feels intimate, the darkness outside contrasting with the warm glow inside.
Kyle settles close to me, his thigh pressing against mine as Toby pulls out of the parking lot.
As we drive away, the mountains stand tall behind us, a silent promise of the life we're building together.
I lean against the hood of Toby's truck while Kyle pulls up the hardware store's website on his phone.
His shoulder presses against mine as he scrolls through paint brands and primers, making notes about what we'll need for tomorrow.
"We should start early," he says, glancing at me with a smile.
"Get the living room done before lunch."
His eyes meet mine, sparkling with excitement about our first home project together.
Toby checks his watch, pointing out that the store closes in forty minutes.
Kyle quickly writes down specific paint codes and supply quantities, his hand brushing mine as he shows me the list.
I grip the door handle as Toby suddenly turns off the main road onto a narrow dirt path.
"I know a shortcut," he says, his voice filled with confidence.
"This will get us to the restaurant faster."
Kyle's hand tightens on mine as branches scrape against the sides of the truck.
The headlights illuminate a steep drop-off to our right, making my stomach lurch.
"Are you sure this is the way?"
I ask, my voice tinged with concern.
Toby nods, his eyes fixed on the winding path ahead.
"This connects to the back parking lot of the restaurant. Trust me."
Kyle pulls out his phone to check the time, mentioning that he'd made a reservation for 7:30.
I grip the armrest as Toby navigates a particularly sharp turn, the truck's tires crunching over loose gravel.
The headlights barely illuminate the path ahead, and I wonder if we should turn back.
But just as I'm about to suggest it, the path widens and I see twinkling lights through the trees.
Toby grins triumphantly as we emerge behind an elegant Italian restaurant.
The stone facade glows warmly in the evening light, and he smoothly parks next to a row of luxury cars.
He checks his watch, announcing that it's 7:28 PM.
I step out of the truck, steadying myself on Kyle's offered hand.
The cool evening air carries the rich scent of garlic and herbs from the kitchen vent, making my stomach growl.
Kyle keeps his fingers intertwined with mine as we walk across the gravel lot.
Through the windows, I see white tablecloths glowing under dim lights.
When we reach the heavy wooden door, Kyle pulls it open and guides me inside with his hand on my lower back.
The hostess greets us with a warm smile, glancing at the reservation list.
"Ah, Mr. Kyle, right on time," she says, leading us to a cozy corner table.
As we sit down, Kyle leans in and whispers, "I wanted tonight to be special because I have something important to ask you."
I sit across from Kyle at our candlelit table, watching his hands shake slightly as he unfolds his napkin.
The waiter arrives to pour our wine, and I notice Kyle's fingers brushing against his jacket pocket.
Toby excuses himself to take a phone call, and Kyle slides closer, his knee touching mine under the white tablecloth.
His brown eyes lock with mine as his hand moves toward his pocket.
The flickering candlelight dances across his face, illuminating a mix of nervousness and determination.
I watch as his trembling fingers reach into his pocket, and then he shifts closer, the tablecloth rustling against our legs.
The candlelight catches the delicate silverware, casting shadows across the table.
His knee presses firmly against mine as he withdraws something small from his pocket and holds it between us.
The restaurant's intimate lighting catches hints of something sparkling within.
Kyle's brown eyes meet mine, filled with emotion and hope as he slowly opens the lid of the small dark velvet box.
Inside, I see a ring nestled in silk, its diamond catching the candlelight.
"Kyle," I whisper, my voice barely steady, "is this what I think it is?"
He nods, his eyes never leaving mine, "I've been planning this for months, hoping you'd say yes."
Toby returns just in time to hear Kyle's next words, "Will you marry me?"
I lean close to Kyle, my heart racing as I glance at the diamond ring glinting in the candlelight.
When I notice Toby heading back to his seat after his phone call, I whisper urgently to Kyle, "We have to get out of here. Now."
Kyle's eyes light up with understanding as he quickly pockets the ring box.
We both rise from our seats, leaving our half-empty wine glasses behind.
Kyle takes my hand, leading me toward the restaurant's side door.
As we move away, I catch a glimpse of Toby approaching our abandoned table, a confused expression on his face.
"What's going on?" Toby calls after us, his voice tinged with suspicion.
Kyle squeezes my hand tighter, whispering, "I'll explain everything once we're safe."
I glance back at Toby, then urge Kyle forward, "We can't let him find out yet; it's too dangerous."
I pull Kyle through the side door, and we find ourselves in a narrow alley.
The sound of our footsteps echoes off the brick walls as we make our way down the dimly lit passage.
The night air hits us as we emerge between dumpsters and stacked crates.
Kyle still grips the velvet ring box tightly in his hand while I lead him past the kitchen entrance, where staff members smoke cigarettes and chat quietly.
We hear Toby's voice calling from inside the restaurant, making us quicken our pace.
When we reach the street corner, Kyle tugs me behind a parked delivery van.
I press against him, both of us breathing heavily from our escape.
The ring box digs into my side, and I realize we just fled our own engagement dinner.
Kyle looks equally confused, his planned proposal completely derailed.
"What is going on?" I ask, watching his face in the dim street light.
He fumbles with the velvet box, trying to salvage his romantic moment while kitchen staff walk past and Toby's voice carries from the alley.
I lean against the van's cold metal, Kyle shifting nervously beside me.
The ring box shakes in his hands as shadows from the alley hide us.
Restaurant staff pass by with trash bags, unaware of our hasty departure.
Kyle stammers, trying to explain why we rushed out here, but his rehearsed proposal speech falls apart.
When I touch his arm, he drops the ring box.
It clatters on the concrete, popping open to reveal the diamond ring glinting in the dim light.
Kyle scrambles to pick it up, his face flushing with embarrassment.
"I'm sorry, I just... I saw Toby's message on your phone," Kyle admits, his voice a mix of hurt and confusion.
I freeze, my heart sinking as I realize the truth is out.
"He knows about the inheritance, doesn't he?" Kyle continues, his eyes searching mine for answers.
I lean against the van, watching his face shift from hurt to understanding.
"I didn't want you to know," I explain, my voice barely above a whisper.
"I was afraid it would change things between us."
Kyle looks at me, his eyes filled with a mix of emotions.
He opens his mouth to speak, but I reach out and take his hand before he can say anything.
He lets me intertwine our fingers, the ring box lying open on the concrete between us.
The diamond catches the streetlight, sparkling like a promise.
I squeeze his hand gently, trying to convey all my feelings without words.
"Let's face Toby together," Kyle suggests, his voice filled with determination.
"We'll show him that we're in this together."
I nod, knowing he's right.
We need to be honest with our closest friend about everything - my inheritance and our relationship. As we wait for Toby to find us, I feel Kyle's warm grip steady me.
His presence gives me the strength to face whatever comes next.
The sound of footsteps echoes down the alley, growing louder with each passing second.
Toby appears around the corner, his expression a mix of concern and curiosity.
"Hey, what's going on with you two?" he asks, glancing between us and the open ring box.
Kyle steps forward, his voice steady, "We need to talk, Toby—it's about the inheritance and what it means for all of us."
I stand beside Kyle, our hands still intertwined, as he faces Toby in the dim alley.
The brick wall behind us casts long shadows, and the distant hum of the city fills the air.
Kyle's voice remains steady as he begins to explain everything.
"I saw your message on his phone earlier today," he admits, his eyes locked on Toby's.
"I didn't know about the inheritance until then."
Toby leans against the brick wall, his arms crossed over his chest as he listens intently.
His expression shifts from confusion to understanding as Kyle continues.
"I had planned to propose tonight, but when I found out about the money, everything changed," Kyle explains, his voice filled with a mix of emotions.
"I didn't want our relationship to be complicated by wealth."
Toby's eyes widen slightly at the mention of billions, but he remains silent, absorbing the revelation.
Kyle takes a deep breath before continuing, "I wanted to protect our friendship from any potential complications."
As Kyle speaks, I can see the weight of his words settling on Toby's shoulders.
The realization that our lives have been forever altered by my inheritance hangs heavy in the air. Finally, Toby breaks the silence, his voice filled with a mix of surprise and curiosity.
"So, you're saying you two are engaged?" he asks, glancing between us and the ring box lying open on the ground.
Kyle nods, a small smile forming on his lips.
"Yes, we are," he replies, his voice filled with a mix of happiness and nervousness.
Toby steps forward, his eyes fixed on the diamond ring glinting in the dim light.
He bends down to pick it up, examining it closely before looking back at us.
"So, this is what you were hiding from me," he says, his voice filled with a mix of surprise and understanding.
Kyle nods again, his eyes locked on Toby's face.
"Yes," he replies softly.
"I wanted to tell you sooner, but I was afraid of how you would react."
Toby looks at us both for a moment before speaking again.
"I'm happy for you both," he says, his voice filled with sincerity.
He holds the ring up under the streetlight, watching as it catches the dim glow.
Then, he steps forward and wraps Kyle in a tight hug.
"Congratulations, man," he whispers, his voice filled with genuine emotion.
Next, he turns to me and pulls me into a warm embrace.
"Congratulations to you too," he says softly.
As we break apart, Kyle bends down to retrieve the ring from Toby's palm.
His hands tremble slightly as he picks it up, the weight of the moment settling over us once again.
The sound of footsteps echoes through the alley as kitchen staff emerge for their smoke breaks.
They pause, intrigued by our huddled gathering in the dim light. Kyle takes a deep breath and drops to one knee in front of me.
The ring glints in the yellow security light overhead as he begins to speak.
"From the moment I met you, I knew you were special," he says, his voice steady despite our unconventional setting.
"You light up my world in ways I never thought possible."
I feel tears welling up in my eyes as I listen to his heartfelt words.
The staff gathered around us seem oblivious to our hasty proposal in this dim alley behind the restaurant.
Kyle continues, "Will you marry me?"
As I nod my head yes, Kyle slides the ring onto my finger.
The diamond catches the yellow security light overhead, casting a warm glow over us. Toby claps his hands together in celebration as Kyle stands and pulls me into a tender kiss.
The distant city hum fades, leaving only the sound of our hearts in sync.
I lead him out of the alley and into the brightly lit main street, our fingers intertwined.
The diamond catches the streetlight as we walk, causing me to pause for a moment to admire how it sparkles against the city backdrop.
Kyle wraps his arm around my waist, pulling me close as we pass by restaurant windows filled with people enjoying their meals.
Behind us, Toby gives us space, falling back to make a quick phone call.
The cool night air carries the scents of garlic and fresh bread from the nearby kitchens.
"Let's get dessert somewhere else," Kyle suggests, his voice low and intimate.
"Somewhere just the two of us."
I smile, nodding in agreement.
"How about that little café by the river?" I suggest, remembering our first date there.
Kyle grins, his eyes lighting up with the memory.
We walk together, hand in hand, down the cobblestone sidewalk.
The glow from storefront windows catches the sparkle of my engagement ring, making me feel like a princess in a fairytale.
As we pass a group of diners, Kyle proudly introduces me as his fiancée, making my heart flutter.
Their congratulations echo in our wake as we continue on our way.
The familiar red awning of our little café comes into view, and I quicken my pace.
Kyle squeezes my hand and points ahead to the corner table by the window where we shared coffee on our first date.
It's empty tonight, waiting just for us.
Music drifts through the open door, mingling with the hum of conversation inside.
As we approach the café, Kyle leans in and whispers, "I can't believe we're back here, starting a new chapter."
I nod, feeling a rush of nostalgia mixed with excitement.
"Neither can I," I reply softly, "but it feels like the perfect place to begin our forever."
I push open the heavy wooden door while Kyle keeps his arm around my waist.
The rich scent of espresso and vanilla fills my nose as we step inside.
Instrumental jazz plays softly through hidden speakers, mingling with the hum of conversation from the intimate tables scattered throughout the dimly lit space.
Couples sit huddled together, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of candles on each table.
Our usual corner table by the window beckons, its candle flickering gently, casting shadows on the exposed brick wall behind it.
As we make our way through the café, the barista looks up from behind the counter and her eyes widen in recognition.
Her gaze falls upon my ring, and a smile spreads across her face.
Kyle guides me to our corner, his hand warm against my lower back.
We settle into the familiar leather chairs, their worn cushions creaking softly as we sit.