Archie and Ryan

The summer was hot and slow, as if time itself had decided to linger in this country house. The silence here was special—without the bustle of the city, without prying eyes. Two years ago, she married two men at once, unable to choose. Both Archie and Ryan made the decision without hesitation, as if there was no other option.

Archie was tall, almost six feet two inches tall, 198 centimeters tall and confident and strong. At thirty-two, he was muscular, well-groomed, wealthy, and businesslike. Smart and decisive, he knew how to take responsibility and never backed down from his decisions. Ryan, on the other hand, was younger—twenty-nine—and even taller, a muscular 203 centimeters. His toned body, incredible physical strength, and easy sense of humor made him the complete opposite of Archie, but that's precisely why they were best friends and business partners.

They lived in a large two-story house outside the city. On the ground floor was a swimming pool, surrounded by a spacious courtyard and garden, which the men tended themselves. Now she sat in the shaded gazebo, slowly sipping a cooling smoothie. Her third month of pregnancy made her especially vulnerable in their eyes—Archie and Ryan wouldn't let her burden themselves with even the smallest details.

The sun was high, blazing mercilessly. The men finished their work in the garden: Archie straightened up, shook the earth from his hands, and looked at her with seriousness and concern.

• Darling, your garden is almost ready, go inside and rest.

Ryan chuckled and glanced at the hot sky and added

• He's right, now is the worst time.