In his embrace, I loved the way he made me feel.
Safe.
Protected.
Like, for the first time in a very long time…
Someone genuinely wanted me to be okay.
But he was wrong about my brother.
This wasn’t because I wanted to protect Nicholas anymore.
I didn’t.
Brother or not…
I didn’t want him anywhere near me again.
He had finally crossed a line I could never forgive.
Knowing I was about to make my own choice…
I ignored every rational thought in my head.
Slowly, I leaned forward and kissed him.
The moment our lips met…
A familiar warmth spread through my body.
The pain in my ribs eased.
Not completely…
But enough that I immediately recognized the feeling.
It was just like the first time he had kissed me.
My eyes widened.
What…?
I tried to pull away so I could ask him what
