To Hate My Stepbrother

Ava’s POV

It’s been two months since Mason and I started going out all over again and I badly want to kiss him. I wanted to feel his soft lips on mine again just like I usually do years ago.

It might’ve been years but I still remember how soft his lips were, how safe I usually feel in his arms and how happy I always am whenever he was anywhere around.

I’ve changed in the space of two months and it was because of me, after all these years he still had this much effect on me and he still is able to make me as happy as ever.

It took everything in me, all of my self control to not smack my lips on his and kiss him because I had no idea how he feels about me.

Does he still love me or he’s just feeling guilty and is asking me out because of that?

I’d wanted to move out of our parents house and get an apartment of my own since I’ve saved up enough money to get my own apartment.

“You’re moving out?” He asked as he took a sip of his coffee and I nodded affirmatively, the way his hand fiddled with the cup, the way he held it carefully and set it down gently made a smile escape my lips.

“I feel like I need to leave and since I’ve saved up enough, I can finally have an apartment of my own.” I answered and he smiled before his eyes lit up.

I knew that look, it was the look he gave whenever he had an idea or was about to talk about something he loves. I still remember a lot about him.

“You know what?” He started and I raised an eyebrow, “why not move into my penthouse with me?” He added and I tilted my head to the side.

“Oh no, no, I don’t mean it that way,” he hurriedly explained, “it’s just the penthouse is so big and empty and sometimes I feel like I’ll get lost in the emptiness.” He added and we both laughed.

“This isn’t charity, Ava. You won’t be taking up much space, hell, you wouldn’t even be taking any space at all and if it makes you feel comfortable you can pay rent. I’ll take it.” He finished as his eyes searched mine.

I’d decided to scare him a little bit by putting up a front but I knew deep down that I’d already agreed to staying with him.

“Wow,” I sighed as I averted his eyes, “I really thought you’ve changed and…” I continued as I looked at him again and his eyes widened as his mouth dropped open.

He’d wanted to say something when I raised my hand to ask him to not say anything until I’m done talking.

“You say this isn’t charity and you’re here sitting in front of me and acting like you can pull me out of this shithole I’m deep in.” I added and his mouth opened even more.

“Ava, I swear it’s…” I couldn’t hold it anymore as I covered my mouth and bursted into an uncontrollable laughter that made him let out a sigh of relief.

“You were joking? C’mon.” He growled as he rested his back against the chair, “you got me.” He added before joining me in laughing.

“You should see your face,” I said amidst laughter. I haven’t laughed this good in years, “of course I’ll live with you.” I finally agreed and he smiled as he stared at me.

“Thank you.” He said impulsively and when I’d asked why he was thanking me for, he didn’t say anything.

The day went by quickly and we both headed back to our various homes, I couldn’t stop thinking about him and how I’d finally be moving in with him.

The day came and I had my bags all packed already as I got ready to move into my new shared apartment.

“Did you talk your feelings out with Mason yet?” My mother asked and I turned to look at her. I couldn’t miss the look of pity and worry that was written on her face.

“No.” I answered slightly as I moved my hair to the back of my ear since the humidity was messing with it.

“You’ll be fine, I believe you both are adults and can handle things like this yourselves.” She smiled and I returned it.

I know she had no problem with my previous history with Mason since we’re not blood related and she knew how we never for once saw each other as siblings.

She was just surprised at how we escaped the siblings’ check and fell in love with each other but she didn’t scold or judge me about it, instead she offered advice.

“Be careful.” Her voice put a halt to my thoughts and I told her I would as I got into my car and drove off to Mason’s, he’d sent the address to me already.

Soon, I started unpacking my things and just as Mason had said, the penthouse was really big and the room he’d given to me was also big and very comfortable.

He helped me unpack and didn’t leave until I was done packing. He also made dinner while I showered and put on comfortable clothing.

I went downstairs to join him at the table and he had the biggest, brightest and cutest smile I’ve ever seen as he gestured for me to sit down.

Dinner went well and it wasn’t long until we finished eating and I’d wanted to retire to bed when I turned to look at him again.

“Thank you.” I smiled and he stood to walk towards me and I couldn’t help but watch as he stopped in front of me.

I could swear that my heart stopped when he leaned into me and moved the strand of hair that fell on my face away.

“I’m really happy you’re here.” He beamed, that was the umpteenth time he’d tell me that and I knew I was blushing because my cheeks were burning.

“Can I hug you?” He asked and I nodded as he pulled me into him for a hug. I missed it, I felt safe and warm and his scent is mesmerizing.

I didn’t want the hug to end.