AllFreeNovel
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I fall into a trance, absorbing every word.
It’s as if Brandon is bathing me in an ocean of oil paint, then lighting my skin with sinful fire.
How does someone who claims to have a beast within and often demands my time, even though I genuinely want to give it to him, appear so tender and gentle at this very moment while reading to me?
He finishes and shuts the book, glancing at me. “Your eyes are glistening.”
I flap my lashes, turning shy. “Um, that bit was interesting.”
“It’s a great book. Read it after I finish.”
“Sure.” I fall quiet as thoughts run through my mind, and before I can stop myself, the words leave my lips. “Brandon, if I cried, would you hold me? Comfort me?”
He sets the book on the nightstand and rises, telling me, “I’d probably make you cry more.” He walks around the bed, his gaze never leaving me.
“I don’t believe that,” I mutter, yearning for him to cloak me in his embrace.
Brandon doesn’t respond, only watches me with clenched fists, jaw stiffening.
We’re both startled when someone knocks.
I shoot up from the bed as Britney enters.
“Bran, are you—oh!” She pastes on a broad smile. “Hey, Kayla.”
“Hey.” I wave awkwardly.
Britney is so slim, especially in her tights and form-fitting top. It’s like she gets thinner by the day. Every bit of her is pronounced. She must really work hard at ballet.
“You’re early,” Brandon says to her.
“I snuck off. I’m tired.” She puts on a puppy look for her brother as she says almost childlike, “Let’s eat something sweet and junky before Mom finds out what I’ve done and races home.”
Brandon snorts and tells her, “Fine.” He gestures with a nod for me to go with them.
I shadow the twins back downstairs.
“PB&J sandwiches and ice-cream,” Britney declares as they turn into the massive chef’s dream kitchen.
The white marble waterfall island and tufted padded stools seem impeccably expensive. I gape at the sleek light gray cupboards, stone backdrop, stainless steel appliances, and a rectangular breakfast table with matching chairs.
“What do your parents do?” I ask in amazement.
“Dad’s CEO of a successful company that specializes in eco-friendly and modern furniture,” Britney replies. “As for our mom, she’s made it her full-time job to handle my life.”
I’m pondering on her words and sad undertone when Brandon tells me, “Have a seat.”
I settle on one of the comfy stools at the island.
The twins prepare the sandwiches. I watch how smooth Britney is with her movements so as not to brush against her brother.
I observe him, spreading peanut butter on slices of bread, while his sister spreads jam on others.
When Brandon looks up, I drop my head and trace the marble surface with my thumb.
He slides a plate over and pours juice into three glasses.
They sit on either side of me afterward, and we enjoy the sandwiches amid chit-chat. Well, mostly Britney and I talk.
