Page 102 of Forbidden Professor

I put a hand up. "We both care about Eve. That’s a good start."

Aiden crosses his arms. His stare is razor sharp.

"Care about Eve? What exactly are your intentions, Carter? If this is a fling?—"

"It’s not," I say, struggling to keep my voice calm. "Aiden, I understand your concerns. But this is real."

Aiden’s jaw tightens. "How can I trust that? How do I know you won’t hurt her?"

I gather myself to give my half-brother the truth he needs to hear.

"I love her. She inspires me. She makes me want to be better."

Aiden’s eyes narrow. I press on, each word genuine.

"I know you’re protective. I respect that. But I don’t want to take her away. I want to support her. I want to be part of her life."

He’s processing my words, struggling with his instincts. I hold his gaze, hoping he sees my sincerity.

"I can’t promise we’ll never have hard times. But I promise to treat her with respect and love. That’s who I am."

The room is tense as I step closer.

"Remember your past with Olivia? You told me that you struggled with your friend Grayson, because he’s Olivia’s older brother. Right?"

Aiden’s eyes narrow, and I sense he’s remembering. I press forward.

"You fought for her, didn’t you? Against everyone who didn’t understand. How is this any different?" My voice is pleading. "Eve and I didn’t choose this, but we can’t ignore it."

Aiden closes his eyes briefly. When he opens them, there’s a hint of something softer.

I wait, holding my breath as he runs a hand through his hair. His face shows the struggle between his need to protect and the truth in my words.

"Do you really love her?" Aiden’s voice is barely a whisper. "Not just a fling, but real love?"

I steady myself, meeting his gaze.

"I love her completely," I say. "She makes me better. I’d do anything for her, Aiden. I’d face this conversation a thousand times if it means being with her."

Aiden’s expression softens more and he sighs.

"I’m not thrilled," he admits, his tone wary. "But I guess I can’t stop you from being together. I’ll let it happen for Eve. But if you hurt her?—"

"I won’t," I say firmly. "I promise."

A tentative truce settles between us. We’re not friends, but we’ve made progress. I exhale, some of the tension lifting. We exchange a brief nod.

"I think we’re done here," I say, my voice thick.

Aiden nods, and we turn to the door. I knock, and the lock clicks open, fresh air sweeping in.

The door opens, and there she is. Eve’s eyes meet mine, filled with hope and worry. My heart swells at the sight of her.

"Carter," she says softly, her voice a balm.

I step forward. She wraps her arms around me. I hold her close, breathing her in, my heart slowing.

"It’s okay," I whisper, hands tracing gentle circles on her back. "We’re okay."

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