Chapter 2 My Stepbrother

Stella's P.O.V.

My stepbrother is so fucking rude!

He spoiled my mood. I was so excited to explore New York City. It's the first time I've stepped out of my hometown, Ibiza, and I thought this would be an amazing start. But no, Alex-the guy with hazel eyes and brown hair-ruined everything with his attitude. All I did was ask him for a tour, trying to break the ice, and he snapped at me as I asked for his life savings.

"What's his problem? Is it because I'm his stepsister? Or is he just an asshole to everyone?" I murmur to myself, rolling my eyes.

I've only known him for a few hours, and I already can't stand him.

Now, I just pray I never meet him again, but we're going to live in the same house. It's quite impossible to avoid him. God! Please save me from him.

I was looking forward to exploring this city, but now all I can think about is how I'm stuck living under the same roof with him. I mean, it's not like I wanted this either and I didn't choose for our parents to get married. This entire situation is so awkward, and he's not making it any easier.

But I can't let him spoil my mood. I came here to start fresh, and I'm not going to let some grumpy stepbrother ruin that for me.

The house is grander than I expected. My new room is bigger than my old one, and as much as I miss my old room, I know I'll make this place my own soon enough. There's even a balcony attached, and it has a swing hanging from the ceiling. I sit on it for a moment, taking in the view of the swimming pool below and the cloud-covered sky. It's beautiful, and for a second, it makes me forget about Alex and his terrible attitude.

After taking a deep breath, I push off the swing and head inside. I need to freshen up and shake off the bad energy from earlier.

The bathroom in my new room is like something out of a magazine-marble floors, huge mirrors, and a bathtub big enough to fit at least two people. It's luxurious, almost too much for me, but I'm not complaining. I strip off my travel clothes and step into the shower, letting the warm water wash away the frustration of the day. As the water cascades down my body, I try to clear my mind.

Don't let him get to you, Stella. He's just one person, and this is a big city. Focus on that.

After showering, I wrap myself in a towel and step back into my room, feeling somewhat lighter. I glance around, already thinking about how I can make this space feel more like home. Maybe I'll get some plants or put up some pictures from Ibiza. Anything to make it feel less like a stranger's house and more like my space.

After quickly wearing a pair of shorts and a tank top, I collapse onto the bed. The long flight has drained me, so I fall asleep almost instantly.

When I wake up in the afternoon, there's a knock on the door. I roll out of bed and open it to see Mom standing outside with a smile.

She asks, "Sleep well, baby?"

"Yeah," I reply, stepping aside so she can come in.

She steps inside and glances around. "Your room is beautiful, isn't it? Do you like it?"

"It's amazing and big, but I miss my old room, Mom." I pout at her.

Mom wraps me in a hug. "You'll get used to it, Stella. Give it time."

I smile weakly and pull away. "I'm sure I will."

"Why don't you go out and explore a bit? Get to know the city," she suggests.

"Actually, I was going to ask if you'd come with me."

But she shakes her head with an apologetic look. "I can't, honey. Your father and I are going out tonight. It's important."

Oh, no! Today, I have to explore the city alone.

I hide my disappointment and force a smile. "Oh, okay. Have fun with your husband then."

She laughs before leaving the room. I change into a black top and blue jeans. But just as I step out of my room, I see Alex entering the mansion.

Seriously? It feels like fate is determined to make my day worse. I should've stayed hidden in my room.

I try to back away without drawing his attention, but I bump into one of the maids, who is carrying a tray of drinks. The glasses crash to the floor, spilling everywhere, and the sound is like a bomb going off in the quiet hallway.

"Fuck!" I mutter under my breath, squeezing my eyes shut.

God! Why does this have to happen now?

"I'm so sorry. I didn't see you." The maid apologises, bending down to clean up the mess.

Why is she apologising? It's my fault.

Before I can say anything, Alex's eyes lock on me, and he's already storming over.

"What a clumsy girl you are," he sneers. "On your first day here, and you're already making a mess of my house."

Just don't answer him, Stella. He isn't worth your energy. And you can't let him annoy you more. So just leave.

After ignoring him, as I turn to leave, he grabs my wrist and spins me around to face him. "Where the hell do you think you're going? You made this mess, and you're going to clean it up. Everyone here does their own work."

Seriously, I have no issue with cleaning the mess, but his condescending tone makes my blood boil. Who the hell does he think he is?

I glare at him, trying to pull away from his grip. "Let go of my hand."

"You're not leaving until you clean the mess you made," He states, tightening his grip.

I've had enough. He's pushed me too far. In a fit of anger, I dig the heel of my sandals into his expensive shoes.

He lets out a yelp, immediately releasing my wrist. "What the fuck?"

I give him a triumphant smile, shrugging off. "That's what you get for messing up with me."

"You ruined my shoes." He yells, glaring down at his scuffed white sneakers.

"Maybe next time you'll think twice before grabbing me, Mr Grumpy." I smirk, folding my arms across my chest.

His eyes widen at my words. "What did you just say? Mr Grumpy?"

I laugh at the look on his face. "Yeah, you heard me-Mr Grumpy. Fits you perfectly, don't you think?"

His eyes narrow, and he steps closer, towering over me. "You think you're funny, don't you?"

I chuckle. "You know you earned that nickname with your charming personality."

"You really don't know when to shut up, do you?" His eyes are darkening, but who cares?

"Why do I keep my mouth shut when you're getting on my nerves?" I sneer at him, placing my hands on my waist.

"I'm going to make you pay for ruining my shoes." He points his finger at his shoes, his eyes filled with anger fixed on me.

I fire back, "And I'm going to make you pay for ruining my day."

He rolls his eyes and marches upstairs to his room.

Oh God, how will I survive with him under the same roof?

Shaking my head, I kneel to help the maid finish cleaning up the mess. "I'm really sorry." I feel bad for causing the trouble.

She gives me a small smile. "It's alright. Don't worry about it."

Once everything's cleaned up, I take a deep breath and head out of the house. It's time to forget about Mr Grumpy and focus on what I came here for-a new beginning.