My Brother’s Best friend

Chapter Twenty-One Finally free

(Harper’s POV)

The late summer sun spills golden across the backyard. I’m sitting on the porch, notebook in hand, but it’s not for “research” this time. I’m writing about us — about how far we’ve come, about the tension that once filled every glance, and the way everything finally fell into place.

Jace leans back in the chair beside me, tossing me a sideways grin. “You still writing about me?”

“Maybe a little,” I tease, nudging his shoulder.

He laughs softly. “Good. Just make me look charming, not terrifying.”

I roll my eyes but smile. “I’ll try.”

Noah strolls past, carrying his guitar, grinning. “You two lovebirds better not be planning your next dramatic secret. I’ve already survived that once.”

“We’re just… enjoying the summer,” I reply, leaning against Jace.

He wraps an arm around me, pulling me close. The warmth feels familiar, safe, and thrilling all at once. “Enjoying it with you,” he murmurs.

The breeze ruffles our hair, the air smells of late blooms, and for the first time since I got back from abroad, I feel completely at home.

No more pretending, no more hiding, no more racing hearts in secret corners. Just us, finally honest, finally together, and finally ready for whatever comes next.

I glance at Jace, and he smiles. In that smile, I see all the unspoken promises, the teasing moments, and the slow-burn love that brought us here.

Summer may be ending, but this is only the beginning.