FALLING FOR MY HUSBAND'S BROTHER

Chapter four: The Wrong Door

The ride to the Williams family villa was quieter than I expected. The sound of rain tapping against the car window filled the silence between Adrian and me as I sat in the passenger seat, watching the world outside slowly disappear beneath the darkness of the storm. My mind kept replaying everything that had happened. This morning, I had woken up believing I was stepping into the happiest day of my life. I had imagined ending the night beside Nathan, talking about our future and cherishing every moment of our first night together. But things had turned out differently. Instead, I was sitting in a car with Adrian while Nathan was miles away because of an urgent business matter.

I glanced at Adrian. His attention remained fixed on the road. His face was calm, and his grip on the steering wheel never changed despite the heavy rain falling around us. He wasn't trying to make conversation, and he wasn't making me feel uncomfortable. He simply gave me space. "Are you okay?" His voice suddenly broke through my thoughts, and I quickly turned my gaze back toward the window. "Yes. I'm fine." The answer came out almost too quickly. Adrian looked at me for a moment, as if he knew there was more behind my words, but he didn't question me. For some reason, I appreciated that.

He had always been respectful. My mind briefly returned to what happened earlier in the restroom. The way he had helped me when my dress got stained. The way he had immediately looked away, making sure I didn't feel embarrassed. I quickly pushed the memory aside. It was only an accident. Nothing more.

Outside, the weather became worse. The sky was covered with thick dark clouds, and the wind shook the trees along the road. Adrian turned on the radio. "...weather officials have warned residents about an incoming storm. Heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected tonight. Everyone is advised to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel..." I looked ahead as lightning flashed across the sky.

A storm?

Before I could say anything, the rain suddenly became heavier. The sound of water hitting the windshield grew louder, making the journey feel even more isolated. Then my phone vibrated. I looked down and saw Nathan's name appear on the screen. I answered immediately.

"Hello?"

"I'm sorry, Clara."

My smile disappeared when I heard his voice.

"What happened?"

"I don't think I'll be able to come home tonight."

I went quiet.

"What do you mean?"

"The storm is getting worse, and where I am is too far away. The roads are becoming dangerous, and I don't want to take the risk."

I lowered my eyes. I understood his reason, but I couldn't deny the small disappointment growing inside me. Tonight was supposed to be unforgettable.

"I understand," I finally said.

"I'm sorry. I'll make it up to you."

"Okay."

The call ended, and I stared at my phone screen for a moment before putting it away. I tried to convince myself that everything was fine. One difficult night didn't change the love Nathan and I shared.

After some time, Adrian slowed the car.

"We're here."

I looked ahead and my breath caught.

The Williams family villa stood behind tall gates, glowing beautifully despite the storm. It was magnificent. The mansion was surrounded by carefully maintained gardens, tall trees, and beautiful lights that illuminated the entrance. The white exterior walls and huge glass windows made the house look elegant and timeless. It wasn't just a home. It was a place that carried years of family history.

Adrian stepped out of the car and walked around to open my door.

"Careful."

I stepped out, and we hurried toward the entrance as the rain poured heavily around us.

The moment the doors opened, warmth surrounded me. I stepped inside and looked around in amazement. The inside was even more beautiful. A massive chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a soft glow across the marble floor. Expensive paintings decorated the walls, and luxurious furniture filled the spacious living room. Everything was perfect. Yet, despite the beauty surrounding me, I felt nervous. This was the Williams family home. The place where Nathan had grown up. The place where I would now have to find my place.

"You're finally back."

I turned toward the familiar voice.

Nathan's mother stood near the staircase with Emily beside her.

I recognized her immediately. She was the same elegant woman who had attended our wedding earlier that day. She had watched Nathan and me exchange our vows. She already knew who I was. But the expression on her face now was different.

Her smile was polite.

Her eyes were carefully studying me.

"Good evening, Mrs. Williams," I greeted.

"Clara."

She said my name calmly.

"Welcome to the Williams home."

"Thank you."

Her gaze moved over me briefly.

"I hope you understand that being part of this family comes with expectations."

I forced a polite smile.

"I understand."

Before the silence could grow uncomfortable, Emily stepped forward.

"Don't mind my mother. She takes everything seriously."

A small smile touched my lips. Emily had always been kinder toward me.

"It's nice to see you again, Clara."

"It's nice to see you too, Emily."

Adrian remained quiet beside us.

"You should rest," he said.

I nodded.

"Thank you for bringing me home."

He gave a small smile before leaving.

Later that night, I lay awake in bed. The storm continued outside, and the sound of thunder echoed through the villa. My thoughts wouldn't settle. Nathan leaving. His mother's words. The feeling of entering a home where everyone already knew their place except me.

Eventually, I gave up trying to sleep. My throat felt dry.

I needed some water.

Quietly, I stepped out of my room and walked through the hallway. The villa looked different at night. The beautiful lights were dim, and the silence made the huge house feel unfamiliar.

I looked around, searching for the kitchen.

Then I noticed a door slightly open.

Assuming it was the kitchen, I walked toward it.

Without thinking, I pushed the door open.

The moment I stepped inside, I froze.

This wasn't the kitchen.

My eyes moved around the room, taking in the marble walls, the large mirror, and the bathtub.

A bathroom.

My cheeks warmed when I realized my mistake.

But before I could turn around, I noticed someone else was there.

My breath caught.

Adrian.

He stood near the mirror, his shirt removed, completely unaware that I had walked in.

For a moment, neither of us moved.

The storm outside continued raging, but the silence between us felt louder than the thunder.

Then his eyes met mine.

Surprise flashed across his face.

My heart stopped for a second.

Of all the doors I could have opened...

Why did it have to be this one?