Bound by Variables

Chapter 4

The low purr of William’s sports car echoed across the polished driveway as he and Paul stepped out, the late-afternoon sun gilding the estate’s windows and manicured lawns in warm light.

Before they could head toward the entrance, the whir of tires cut through the quiet. Wendy swung into the parking area on her bike, a whirlwind of sound and motion. She tugged off her helmet, shaking out her newest hairstyle—a wolf cut streaked in every color imaginable.

Paul gave a low whistle, leaning against the car with a grin, while William folded his arms with a sigh.

“You do realize Grandfather is going to have a fit when he sees you, right?” William said dryly.

Wendy hopped off her bike, smirking. “I’ll care about his opinions when he starts respecting mine.”

Paul chuckled. “No shade, sis, but you coming out in the middle of a dinner party by making out with the waitress just to prove your point? That was iconic, but maybe a little too much for the old man to handle.”

“Thanks, Paullie.” Wendy nudged him playfully. “Honestly, it’s his fault. If he didn’t want a scene, he shouldn’t have tried to marry me off to that loser Matthews for some merger deal. It’s 2025, for fuck’s sake.”

Her attention shifted back to William, eyes sharp with curiosity. “Anyway, you’re the one who demanded this little family dinner. What’s the big news?”

“Patience, little pig,” William replied, a smirk tugging at his lips. “Inside first.”

Wendy stuck her tongue out at him, laughing at his bratty dismissal.

As they moved toward the grand entrance, she drifted closer to Paul, lowering her voice. “Come on, Paul, you can tell me. What’s going on?”

Paul flashed her a mischievous smile. “Oh, babes. You’ll have to wait. This one’s too good to spoil.”

The three of them stepped into the estate, anticipation sparking between them—Wendy practically buzzing with the promise of whatever drama awaited inside.