Forbidden Flames: My Stepbrother

Note: This is the second book in the Forbidden Flames series. While it can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the books in sequence.

***

Alex's P.O.V.

Fuck! My life is a totally fucked up.

I'm on my way to pick up my stepmother and stepsister from the airport-two complete strangers who are about to invade my life. I didn't want to go, but my father was busy with some meetings and forced me to do it.

I hate this. I hate everything about this situation. Even though my parents' marriage wasn't great and I grew up watching them yell at each other, I still can't accept the idea of someone else taking my mother's place. How am I supposed to just welcome this woman and her daughter into my life? Just like that?

Although I usually love driving, today I'm sitting in the passenger seat of the Range Rover, letting the driver handle it. I can't even bear the thought of standing outside with a sign, waiting for two people I don't even want to meet. And I didn't bring my car because there's no way I'm letting strangers sit in it.

I don't even know what they look like. My father showed me pictures once, but I didn't care enough to remember. I'm sure of one thing: I'm never going to accept them. I'm already hating them before even meeting them because I had to skip basketball practice-the first time in my life-to pick them up. Basketball is my life.

And now, I'm stuck here, going to the airport instead of being where I actually should be.

***

My driver stands outside the terminal, holding up a sign with their names on it while I sit in the car, getting bored.

A few minutes later, I spot them walking over toward the car. Just from their clothes, I can tell exactly where they come from and where they're headed-to my father's wallet.

The driver helps them with their luggage while I remain seated, staring straight ahead. They climb into the backseat, chattering, but I don't bother looking at them. I don't care who they are. I'm here because I have to be, not because I want to be.

"Hello, Alex," they say in unison, their voices all too cheerful for my liking, and I roll my eyes.

"Hi," I reply in a flat tone, sliding my shades over my eyes. I'm not at all interested in talking to them.

I glance in the rearview mirror, and my eyes fall on Stella, my stepsister. Her blonde hair with streaks of brown hair brushes her shoulders, and those eyes-they catch my attention. Golden-brown, it's the first time I have seen a woman with this eye colour. I can't deny she's attractive, but I immediately shut down the thought.

Stop it, Alex! She's your stepsister. You should hate her, instead of finding her attractive.

"Will you give me a tour of New York?" Stella asks suddenly, her voice filled with excitement, causing me to roll my eyes.

Tour of New York? Seriously?

"Excuse me, I'm not a guide," I snap back, my voice dripping with attitude. Who does she think she is? Does she really expect me to play nice?

"You're so rude. I just asked a simple question, and you could've just said no. Why do you have to be so harsh?" She fires back, pissed off.

"I like to be rude. You should get habitual to it." I glance at her through the rearview mirror, smirking.

Before she can respond, her mom grabs her wrist, shooting her a warning look. Stella falls silent, turning her attention to the window.

Good. The less talking, the better. I shove my shades into my pocket and start scrolling through my phone, doing my best to ignore everything else.

Finally, we arrive at the house, and I waste no time in dropping them off before heading straight to college in my car.

As I drive, my mind keeps drifting back to Stella and those amber eyes. There is something about them, something that doesn't leave my mind despite my best efforts to ignore it.

Fuck, Alex. Stop thinking about her eyes and focus on what matters-surviving this nightmare.

***

I enter the canteen to meet my friend Sky, who is also my teammate. I shake my head when I find him devouring the lips of her girlfriend, Zoe, the girl with the curtain bangs. They were best friends when they joined college, but from the beginning, I knew they would end up becoming a great couple.

They went through a lot two months ago because of Zoe's fear, but seeing them together now makes me happy.

Seriously, in the environment I grew up in, I never believed in love, but seeing them, I wonder if it's possible. If love can actually survive all the crap life throws at you. Sky and Zoe-they're proof that maybe it can. It's the kind of love you only see in movies or read about in books, but they're living it.

It's something I've never had, and something I'm not even sure I want. But watching them, there's a small part of me that wonders what it would be like to have that-to have someone who looks at me the way Zoe looks at Sky, like I'm her entire world.

Alex! Stop it. Love is for people who have time to waste. I'm too messed up, my life is already complicated with my father's new marriage, and the last thing I need is more emotional baggage.

I approach their table, clearing my throat loudly. "Can you two stop eating each other's lips for a second?"

Sky pulls away from Zoe with a grin and teases me, "Jealous much, Alex?"

"Please," I scoff, sliding into the seat across from them. "I'd rather play basketball than deal with all the drama that comes with a relationship."

Zoe gives me a smile, her eyes twinkling. "You say that now, but one day, someone's going to come along and change your mind."

I roll my eyes, ignoring her comment. "Yeah, well, if that happens, I'll be sure to let you know. But for now, I'm more concerned about surviving this new family situation."

Sky raises an eyebrow. "So, they finally arrived?"

"Yeah," I mutter, grabbing a fry off his plate. "And let me tell you, it's already a nightmare. My stepsister, Stella, asked me to give her a tour of New York like I'm some kind of tour guide. Can you believe that?"

Zoe chuckles. "She's probably just trying to break the ice. It's not easy being in a new city, especially with a stepbrother who's determined to hate her."

"I don't hate her," I argue, even though I'm not sure that's entirely true. "I just... don't want anything to do with her. Or her mom."

Sky leans back in his chair, studying me. "Sounds like you're already making up your mind about them without giving them a chance."

"What's there to give a chance to?" I snap. "They're intruding on my life, and I didn't ask for any of this. They're just here to make things more complicated."

Zoe's voice softens as she speaks. "Maybe it's complicated for them too, Alex. They're probably just as nervous as you are about this whole situation."

I don't want to admit it, but deep down, I know she's right. As much as I hate to admit it, they didn't choose this any more than I did. But that doesn't make it any easier to accept.

Sky says, "Anyway, we've got a game next week. The coach wants to see us put in some extra practice hours. You up for it?"

I nod at him. "Always."

I'm glad Sky changed the topic. Basketball is the one thing that makes sense in my life right now. It's where I can vent out all this frustration and forget about everything else.

As we continue talking, I push thoughts of Stella and her mother out of my mind. But no matter how hard I try, I can't completely take the image of those golden-brown eyes out of my mind. There's something about them that keeps pulling me back, something that I can't quite put my finger on.

And that's what bothers me the most.

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.

Stella's P.O.V.

After exploring NYC, I return to my new home, utterly exhausted, ready to collapse on my bed and shut out the world. As I lie there, my eyes finally starting to close, I hear it-a loud, pounding beat of music vibrating through the walls.

I sit up, groaning. "You've got to be kidding me."

The music is coming from the room right next to mine.

Shit! Is that Alex's room? Of course, it has to be him. My luck can't be that bad, can it? But there it is, blasting through the walls, rattling my nerves. How the hell am I supposed to sleep with this loud noise?

Fuck my life! This day can't be more bad.

I throw off the blankets and storm out of my room before heading straight for his door. I knock-hard-hoping that he'll at least be decent enough to answer.

Why God, why are you doing this with me? I don't want to face that grumpy man, but you're forcing me to deal with him again. For what sins are you punishing me?

The door swings open, and my eyes widen. Alex stands there shirtless, wearing only a pair of shorts. His abs glisten with sweat, and it's obvious he's been working out.

Fuck! He looks so tempting that it becomes hard for me to look away. A few tattoos decorate his chest and arms, adding to that bad-boy vibe. The truth is, I admire the man with tattoos. For a moment, I almost forget why I'm standing here.

Stop it, Stella. You have a boyfriend, and this man is your stepbrother. Besides, even if you were single, Alex is the last person on Earth you'd ever date.

"It's late, and your music is way too loud. I need to sleep. Turn it down." I demand, folding my arms across my chest and trying to focus on his face rather than the rest of him.

"Not my problem." He shrugs, leaning against the doorframe with a stupid smirk on his face. "I like my workouts loud."

Oh, God! He is a complete jerk.

"Who the hell workouts at this time? It's night, normal people are trying to sleep!" I fist my hands to control my anger and myself from punching him. "So how about you act like a normal person, turn it down, and go to bed?"

"I do whatever I want. It's my house, and I like to sleep in the morning and work out at night. You don't get to tell me what to do." He retorts, pointing his finger at me.

"Are you an owl or something, Mr Grumpy?" I shoot back, losing my temper.

"Stop calling me that and get out." He moves to close the door.

What he thinks, I'll just leave and let him do whatever he wants. No way. I'm Stella and I've my ways to deal with men like him.

I shove my foot in the gap, forcing the door open again. "Not until you turn it off. I'm not leaving."

"I'm not turning it off, and you can do whatever you want about it." He tries to close the door again.

But I won't let him win. I shove the door open and march into his room. The music is even louder inside, pounding like a jackhammer. I march straight to the stereo. Before he can stop me, I turn it off and grab the device in my hands, causing his eyes to widen in shock.

"Now watch me, Mr Grumpy." I murmur, smirking at him as he watches me in confusion.

"What the hell are you doing?" He shouts, storming after me as I dart toward the balcony.

Alex lunges for me, but I'm quick. I throw the stereo into the swimming pool below with a loud splash.

"Goodbye, Mr Grumpy's stereo," I mutter, giggling.

It feels good now. How did he even think that he wouldn't let me sleep in peace?

He grabs my arms, spins me around and pins me against the balcony railing in a swift motion. "Are you fucking crazy?" He yells, moving closer to me, causing me to shiver and squeeze my eyes shut for a second.

He's so damn close, his face inches from mine, his eyes blazing with fury. His grip is tight, his breathing heavy, and for a second, despite everything, we lose ourselves in each other's eyes. My heart races in my chest because of our proximity.

What the hell is happening to me?

"Let go, Alex." I try to wriggle free, but his hold is firm.

"I'm not letting you go," he growls, his dark eyes fixed on me. "First, you ruin my shoes, and now my music system. You're making me so, so damn angry, Stella."

His grip tightens, and I wince. "You're hurting me, Alex."

But he isn't listening. His dark gaze is locked on mine, and I feel like I'm suffocating under the heat of it. I have to get out of there.

Think something, Stella. Think.

And then, it hits me-I lean forward and bite down on his arm.

"Ah! What the-" He yelps, releasing me instantly.

Well done, Stella! Well done!

I rush, giving a cheeky grin over my shoulder as I stick my tongue out at him before darting out of his room.

That's what happens when anybody tries to mess up with me.

"You ill-mannered girl." He shouts after me, and I giggle, entering my room.

I slam the door shut and collapse onto my bed, smiling with triumph. What did he think? He wouldn't let me sleep? I'm Stella, I have my ways to deal with an arrogant, grumpy and spoiled brat like him.

But as I close my eyes to sleep, the image of Alex standing so close, his muscular body and those tattoos keep replaying in my mind.

"Why can't I just stop thinking about him? What the hell is wrong with me?" I whisper to myself, frustrated.