Chapter Two: Secrets and regrets
662 Words
Mia's POV
When did I start feeling this way? I can't pinpoint the exact date or time, but I know it's been consuming me.
I'm in love with my brother, Austin. It's wrong, and that's why I've kept it hidden. I've tried to suppress these feelings, but everything about him makes my heart skip a beat—his smile, laughter, kindness, and the way he talks. Ladies swoon over him, but unlike Mike, Austin is more discreet.
He's perfect in every sense—smart, loving, kind, really good in school, the quarterback of the Stanford football team, handsome, and sexy. He's rich, and his charm is irresistible. But even if he wasn't all those things, I would love him regardless.
"I'm home," Austin announced nonchalantly, still wearing the same clothes from yesterday.
He looked like he'd just rolled out of bed. I quickly walked towards him, hoping to catch his attention, and held his hands.
"Will you take me to school?" I begged with the cutest pout I could muster.
The room fell silent, awaiting his response.
"I'm busy," Austin said indifferently, releasing his arm from my grasp.
I stared at his back as he walked upstairs, feeling disappointed once again. It's been three years, but he still hates me.
"Not so fast, Mister," my mom intervened.
"Where were you last night?" she asked, her tone firm.
Austin groaned. "Mum, I'm 21. I think I can handle my own life."
My mom countered, "If you're an adult, return everything your father and I are still paying for, and then show me how independent you are."
Austin surrendered. "Fine, I was at a girl's place."
My heart twitched. I'm used to hearing about Austin's conquests, but it hurts every time.
Jeremy chimed in, "Dude, the girl from last night? You hit that?"
Austin smirked proudly, and Jeremy high-fived him.
"What's wrong with boys?" I thought, feeling a surge of anger. "I want to punch Jeremy for praising him. I want to punch the girl for being so cheap, and I want to punch Austin for being so irresistible."
Mostly, I'm angry at myself for turning Austin into a cold-hearted player.
FLASHBACK
Three years ago
My 15-year-old self was frustrated. "But you're grounded, Ariel can't sleep over!"
Austin begged, "Please, Princess, keep it a secret? For your favorite brother?"
I reluctantly agreed, but Ariel was different. Austin loved her, and it hurt to see them together.
As they cuddled and kissed, my jealousy boiled over. I stood up and went upstairs, dialing my parents' number to report them.
By the time I returned downstairs, Ariel had left.
Austin's eyes were red, and his tone was laced with anger. "Are you happy now?"
I shook, fear creeping in.
"Are you happy now that you almost killed her?" he shouted.
Ariel had gotten into an accident after leaving our house.
My knees weakened. "What...what do you mean?"
Austin's words cut deep. "If only you had kept your jealousy in check, Ariel wouldn't be at the brink of death!"
He stormed out, leaving me shattered.
Three days later, Ariel died
After that night, Austin became distant, barely speaking to me.
Weeks later, Trent; Austin’s best friend revealed he and Ariel had an affair. Austin's behavior changed dramatically; he became a cold-hearted player, seeking revenge on girls who resembled Ariel.
I struggled with guilt and depression until Ariel's parents and their new baby, Ariel, helped me heal.
My goal now is to be the best aunt to baby Ariel and try to make Austin forgive me.
So far, only the first goal has been achieved.
As Austin discussed his latest conquest, my emotions spiraled out of control.
Mike intervened, wrapping his hand around mine. "You okay?"
I tried to calm down, but my feelings were overwhelming.
"I'm fine; I'll bike to school alone. Please excuse me," I said, storming out.
"Mia!!" my mom called after me, but I didn't respond.
I needed space to process my turbulent emotions.
- Writer
