“I was hoping we could talk.” Aiden’s tone is steady. “Get to know each other better.”

I glance at Eve and see concern in her eyes. She knows the tension between us. But I nod and force a smile. “Of course. Lead the way.”

As we walk, I can’t help glancing at Eve. I savor her presence. She’s a light in this uncertain landscape. A reminder of the connection we share. But with Aiden here, the air feels thick with unspoken words.

My mind races. I try to reconcile my desire for Eve with the family duties weighing on me. I want to explore this connection, to dive into what we could be. Yet I know the complications.

For now, I focus on the moment. I savor each glance and silent promise. In this world of forbidden attraction, these stolen moments are all we have.

The sound of tires crunching on gravel grabs our attention. I turn to see a sleek black car pulling up. Olivia steps out, her pregnant belly leading as she smiles. The tension in the air lifts. She brings a warmth and calm that feels contagious.

“Olivia!” Eve exclaims and rushes forward to embrace her sister-in-law. They laugh, holding each other close. I watch, marveling at the love between them.

Eve’s voice is full of excitement as she talks about her future. I’m drawn to Eve’s ambition. Her desire to create her own path. Now, I’m able to see her in a new light.

She’s not just a forbidden attraction. She’s a woman with a fierce determination burning brightly inside.

I can’t ignore the pull toward Eve. The couple of times we met last year, I felt the same connection as I do now. Our eyes meet across the room and she blushes, ducking her head. But I can tell that beneath the surface, the attraction still burns.

“So, Professor Morgan,” Eve teases, her eyes glinting. “What’s it like being the resident genius at the university?”

I chuckle. “I don’t know about genius, but I love what I do. It’s rewarding to help students find their passion for biology.”

“I bet you help them find more than that.” She gives me a playful smile. “Where are you working at again? I might add it to my list of schools I’m applying to.”

As if that weren’t the worst idea I’ve ever heard.

“Don’t tease me.” The back of my neck gets hot. “I’m still at the community college. I doubt you want that on your transcript.”

“Well, you’ve got to start inspiring students somewhere.” She leans in, her voice soft. “And what about your passion, Carter? What drives you?”

The question catches me off guard. Coming from Eve, it feels heavy with meaning. I take a breath.

“I suppose it’s the desire to make a difference,” I say. “To help others. To leave a positive impact on the world.”

Eve nods, her gaze intense. “I get that. It’s why I want to be a doctor. I want the power to heal and change lives.”

There’s vulnerability in her words. A glimpse into her soul. I realize that beneath her confident exterior, she carries her own scars and fears. I want to reach out, to comfort her. But I hold back.

Instead, I offer a reassuring smile. As our conversation shifts, the tension between us simmers. A constant reminder of the forbidden attraction we feel.

Eve’s gaze drifts to the windows. The green lawn stretches out before us. “I can’t believe it’s almost the Fourth of July.” A hint of excitement creeps into her voice. “I’ve always loved the fireworks. The sense of freedom.”

I nod, picturing the bursts of color lighting the night. “It’s a special time.”

She hesitates. “My father usually plans something grand. But this year… I think I want something different.”

Her determination catches me off guard. It’s a glimpse of her fierce independence. “Different how?”

“I want to create my own traditions.” Her eyes sparkle with resolve. “Something just for me. Something that reflects who I am.”

I smile, admiring her courage. “That sounds incredible, Eve. You deserve a celebration that’s true to you.”

She beams, happiness shining in her eyes. “Thank you, Carter. It means a lot to have your support.”

The words hang between us, heavy with unspoken emotions. I know I should pull back, but in this moment, I can’t.

This woman is too alluring. I know it’s wrong, but I can’t help it.