Page 53 of Branded Hearts

It’s like finding out Superman has a weakness or something.

And of course, it makes him even more attractive, which is the absolute last thing I need. He’s Liv’s brother, for crying out loud. Completely off limits. Yet, my heart insists on doing these ridiculous cartwheels at the thought of “something more” between us.

Maybe his confession is a sign—a sign that we could connect on a deeper level, even with all the complications. But then I have togive myself a mental shake. Focus on the now, Amelia. Focus on anything but Bradley and those deep, soulful eyes that seem to see right through me.

This is so, so hard.

I can’t sleep. I’ve been tossing and turning since around ten thirty.

Liv decided to sleep at the same time, but she’s been out like a light since her head hit the pillow. Our room is cosy, with two single beds comfortably apart, providing ample space around them. A large door opens to a small balcony overlooking part of the river. The soft moonlight seeps through the curtains, bathing the room in a gentle, silvery light.

Even at twenty-four, sleeping anywhere other than my own bed makes me feel like a little kid at a sleepover, missing home. The unfamiliar sounds, the different smells—it all keeps me on edge. I glance at Liv, peacefully asleep, and feel a twinge of envy.

How does she fall asleep so effortlessly, no matter where we are? Ugh.

To make matters worse, the events of today keep replaying in my mind like a loop, especially those moments with Bradley. I can’t stop over-analysing every interaction, every glance.

I sit up slowly, careful not to disturb Liv, and swing my legs overthe side of the bed. The cool floor against my feet sends a small shiver up my spine. I tiptoe to the balcony door and gently open it, stepping outside. The night air is cool and refreshing, and the sound of the river below is soothing. Leaning against the railing, I take a deep breath and let the calmness of the night wash over me. Maybe some fresh air will help clear my mind and ease my nerves. The stars twinkle above, and for a moment, I forget all my worries and just enjoy the beauty of the night.

My thoughts drift back to Bradley. What could he be doing right now? Is he asleep, too? Maybe a cup of tea will help calm my racing thoughts. I make my way to the kitchen. The house is eerily quiet, amplifying the sound of my footsteps as I tiptoe down the hallway. Raiding the cupboards, I find a small tin with tea bags and take out a peppermint tea. The familiar scent of mint fills the air as I fill the kettle with water and set it to boil. The soft hiss of the kettle is oddly comforting in the stillness of the night.

While I wait for the water to heat, I lean against the kitchen counter, hugging myself tightly. Despite the house’s warmth, a chill runs down my spine, making me shiver. As I pour the hot water over the tea bag, I watch the steam swirl up, feeling my tension slowly melt away. The warm mug in my hands feels comforting, and I take a cautious sip. The soothing taste of peppermint spreads through me, easing my nerves and wrapping me in a gentle calm.

Suddenly, I sense a presence behind me, and my heart skips a beat. I spin around quickly, nearly dropping my tea. Bradley stands there, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight streaming through thewindow. My breath catches, and I can hear my pulse pounding in my ears.

“You scared me,” I say, voice shaky.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to.”

I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself. “Can’t sleep?”

“Something like that.”

Silence fills the room, the kettle’s hum the only sound. I shift uncomfortably, unsure of what to say. He joins me, leaning against the counter. I offer to make him tea, but he shakes his head. The tension is palpable.

“It’s a beautiful night, isn’t it?” I gesture to the window.

“Yeah, it is.” He frowns, eyes distant.

“What’s on your mind?”

“A lot.”

“Like what?” I inquire.

He sighs. “Work, mostly. And... you.”

My breathing hitches, and I freeze. Being this close to him does things to me—dangerous things. “Me? What do you mean?”

My heart pounds loudly. The air feels charged, and I’m hyper-aware of every inch between us. His gaze is intense, making my stomach flutter. I’m caught between wanting to flee and wanting to close the gap. The tension is suffocating, yet thrilling.

His gaze darkens as he studies me, always so deep in thought. I want to know all his thoughts.

“I’m just trying to figure you out. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you,” he says, voice low and intense.

Holy crap. So, he’s been feeling the same.

He exhales heavily, as if struggling to find the right words.

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