Betrayed by All, Loved by My Stepbrother Chapter 06
Scarlett
It’s been three days since I moved into the apartment Alexander prepared for me.
Each time I stand before the floor–to–ceiling windows, gazing at the glittering city lights, my emotions
become incredibly complex. Every piece of furniture, every detail here reveals his thoughtfulness.
The groceries stocked in the refrigerator, the perfectly fitting pajamas in the closet, even the shampoo is my favorite brand.
*How long has he been planning this for me?*
[He’s always had you in his heart]
[Just look at these details]
[He is so attentive]
The comment system appeared again, but this time its content made my heart race and my cheeks flush.
Just as my mind wandered, the doorbell rang.
Through the peephole, I saw Alexander standing outside, shopping bags in hand. He was still in his tailored black suit, but his tie was loosened and sleeves rolled up to his elbows–less formal, more homey and warm.
“How are you doing today? I brought your favorite ingredients,” he asked with concern as soon as he
entered, his eyes scanning me as if checking whether I was truly okay.
“You don’t have to come every day…” I took the shopping bags, my heartbeat inexplicably quickening.
“I want to,” Alexander’s answer was simple and direct, leaving me no room to argue.
In the kitchen, we stood side by side preparing dinner.
Alexander rolled up his sleeves, revealing his toned forearms as he expertly handled the steak.
“Cut it this way for more even pieces,” he suddenly moved closer from behind, his hand covering mine,
guiding my motion as I chopped carrots.
His chest pressed against my back, his warm breath brushing my ear. I could barely hold the knife steady.
“Alexander…” my voice trembled slightly.
“Hmm?” Instead of backing away, he moved even closer.
“You don’t have to be so nice to me…” I struggled to stay calm, but my insides were in complete disarray.
Alexander’s hand paused, then slowly turned me around to face him. The warm kitchen light illuminated his face, those deep eyes filled with emotions I couldn’t decipher.
“I would do anything for you,” he gazed at me, his voice low and serious.
[Oh my God, that look!]
[Kiss her already!]
[The tension is killing me]
The comments scrolled frantically as my face turned crimson all the way to my ears.
Our eyes met, electricity seeming to flow through the air between us. I hastily looked away, practically
fleeing back to the living room.
Dinner ended in a subtle atmosphere of tension. We sat on the sofa as moonlight streamed through the floor–to–ceiling windows, bathing the entire space in silver.
Alexander was quieter than usual, seemingly contemplating something important.
“Scarlett, there’s something I need to tell you,” he suddenly turned to face me, his expression more serious than I’d ever seen.
My heart pounded wildly: “What is it?”
Alexander reached out and gently took my hand. His hand was warm while mine trembled.
“From the first day you moved into the Sterling house, I knew you were special,” his thumb caressed the back of my hand. “Watching you grow up all these years, I’ve realized my feelings for you…”
He paused, looking deeply into my eyes: “They’ve long surpassed those of a brother.”
Boom!
My mind went blank, as if struck by lightning.
“But we’re… we’re siblings!” I exclaimed in shock.
Alexander gently stroked my cheek, his touch as soft as a feather: “Only on paper, isn’t that right?”
His words were like a key, unlocking a door I’d kept tightly shut in my heart.
All these years, had my feelings for Alexander really been just sibling affection? The jealousy whenever I saw him talking with other women; my heart racing whenever he showed concern for me; the overwhelming longing whenever he traveled for business…
I had fallen deeply in love with my step–brother long ago, but always felt unworthy, never daring to admit it.
[Finally, a confession!]
[Our ship is sailing!]
[He has been holding back for so long]
The comments celebrated wildly while tears streamed down my face.
“I thought…” I choked out, “I thought you’d never see me that way…”
“Silly girl,” Alexander wiped away my tears. “You’re the most wonderful woman I’ve ever known.”
With that, he slowly leaned in, and before I could react, his lips gently touched mine.
In that moment, the world stood still.
His kiss was light and tender, as if savoring the most precious dessert in the world. I melted instantly in his embrace, years of suppressed longing finally finding release.
When we parted, I nestled in his arms, experiencing a sense of security and happiness I’d never known before.
“I want to protect you for the rest of my life,” Alexander stroked my hair, his voice as gentle as a promise.
But soon, the weight of reality pressed down on us.
“But… what will people think? Is this right?” I asked, struggling with doubt.
Alexander cupped my face, saying earnestly: “I don’t care what others think. I only care about you.”
[It’s okay, you’re not blood–related]
[This is true love!]
[Be brave!!!]
The comments‘ reassurance calmed me somewhat, but my heart remained conflicted.
“So what are we now?” I asked cautiously.
Alexander smiled tenderly, his smile warmer than moonlight: “Whatever you want us to be.”
Just as I was basking in this sweetness, my phone rang with a jarring tone.
Caller ID: Victoria.
Alexander and I exchanged glances, his expression instantly turning serious.
“Scarlett, are you okay? Mom and Dad are so worried about you,” Victoria’s sweet voice came through the phone, but somehow it sent chills down my spine.
[Be careful!]
[Victoria’s up to something]
[She knows about you two]
The comments‘ warnings set off alarm bells in my mind.
“I’m fine, thanks for asking,” I tried to keep my voice steady.
“Is your place safe, sis? Should I come check on you?” Victoria’s tone sounded concerned, but something felt off.
“That’s not necessary, I-”
“By the way, did Alexander come home tonight? I wanted to ask him about some work stuff.”
My blood froze instantly.
How would she suddenly ask about this?
“I don’t know!” I hurriedly hung up, looking anxiously at Alexander. “How did she get my number?
And…”
“And what?” Alexander’s voice tensed.
“She asked if you’d gone home tonight.” I bit my lip.” Do you think she suspects something?”
Alexander’s expression darkened considerably. He stood up and paced back and forth across the living room.
The moonlight cast his shadow long across the floor, stretching out my unease along with it.