Page 19 of My Shining Stepbrother

“Then don’t stay across the hall. I know I won’t be able to sleep unless you are here with me.”

The message sends, and I hear a loud knock on my door. Opening the door with a racing heart, Reese stands with his arms stretched up, holding onto the top of the door frame.

“You told me to come into your room, and that’s what I did. I need to hold you in my arms. I need to know you are here and with me.” He drops his arms on my hips before stepping closer to me.

“Then let’s lay down.” He shuts the door as I grab his hand and lead him to the bed. He lays down as I grab my clothes and make my way to the bathroom. I changed into my short shorts and a crop top.

I open the bathroom door, and Reese's eyes double in size. His body freezes as he stares at me, but I laugh and shake my head.

His arms instantly wrap around me and pull me closer as I Crawl into bed with him. His breathing speeds up as I feel his heart race behind me. At this moment, I begin to feel better. I only need his arms holding me tight.

- Reese -

She is perfect in every way for me. Laying in this bed, only holding her, is perfect. Somehow this feels more intimate than any other moment in my life, and it's beautiful.

How could someone not see her for who she is and treat her so terribly?

I watch as she slowly falls asleep, and her breathing evens out. The sound of breathing and a steady heartbeat lull me to sleep soon after. I will never be able to sleep without her again.

I woke up the following day and felt like I was on cloud nine. I open my eyes to see her baby blues shining into mine. Her face glows and beams with happiness.

“Good morning, gorgeous.” I kiss her plump lips, sinking into the feeling of her.

“Good morning, handsome. Did you sleep well?” She lazily places her hand on my cheek and strokes my lips with her thumb.

“Best sleep I think I have ever had.” honesty laces my words.

“I know the feeling.” she whispers softly to me. “Even though the day has to start, am I selfish if I just want to lay in bed with you all day?”

“Not selfish, and although that's what I want to do, we can't.” I lean closer, pressing my forehead against hers. “Let's stay for just a few minutes longer.”

“I think that sounds perfect.” she smiles as she snuggles closer into my chest. I could stay like this forever and be the happiest man alive.

After a few minutes, Rose sighs and shifts her body against mine. Pain fills inside of her. I look into her eyes and notice the change inside of her.

“I have to call my mom, but I'm not sure I have the strength to do it.” her shaky voice fills my ears.

“I will be right here, Rose. You can handle her. I believe in you.” I kiss her forehead giving her more support.

She leans in closer to me, breathing heavier. “Do you think your dad would be okay with her coming here instead? I want her to be out of her comfort zone and see if she keeps her fake side showing.”

I nod my head agreeing with the idea. I don't need to ask my father because I know what he will say. Her safety is more important than anything else.

She grabs her phone and calls Anita, who answers immediately. Rose tells her what time to be at my dad's, and I hear the anger in Anita's voice. Rose doesn't give her the time to respond before she hangs up the phone with relief.

Now to tell my father that we will have guests. One good thing about owning a business is that I make my schedule. It also helps that my job comes when the orders arrive.

Chapter 10

- Rose -

My mother walks into the house with her fake smile plastered on her face. I roll my eyes and watch as she looks at me as if she is the one in control.

“Good morning, Rose. We missed you last night.” I watch her face fall as Reese walks in to stand beside me. She collects herself and smiles again. “Reese, I didn't know you would be here today.”

He stretches out his hand to shake hers politely. “Rose asked my father and I to be here today due to the events of last night.” He gives her a professional tone and smile.

The corners of her mouth twitch with annoyance, but she once again catches herself.

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