Page 2 of Forbidden Professor

"I know that all too well," Aiden mutters, clenching his jaw. "He kicked me out when I was eighteen, you know."

His words hit me like a punch. "What? I thought you left on your own."

Aiden scoffs, a bitter laugh escaping. "That’s the story he’s been telling everyone. Making me out to be the ungrateful son who walked away."

I let out a breath I’d been holding, wincing with empathy.

"Dad always complained about you leaving,. He said you didn’t care."

"I would never have left you there with him if I had a choice, Eve." Aiden’s voice cracks. "He’s a madman. And I couldn’t protect you."

Tears prick my eyes as his words sink in. I’d believed my dad’s lies, never knowing the sacrifices my brother made. Guilt weighs on my chest, threatening to pull me under.

But as I look at Aiden, seeing his fierce love and support, I know we can face anything together. We survived Dad’s tyranny and came out stronger, more determined to find our own paths.

"I’m so sorry, Aiden," I whisper, squeezing his hand. "I should’ve known better than to believe him."

He shakes his head and gives me a small smile. "You don’t have to apologize. We were both just kids, trying to survive."

The truth of our past settles between us. I feel a shift in our relationship. There’s a shared resilience, a bond that can face any storm. I know, no matter what challenges lie ahead, my brother will be by my side.

Aiden clears his throat, breaking the emotional tension. "So, how long are you planning to stay?" His tone is light but curious.

I hesitate, knowing my answer will surprise him. "Actually, I was thinking of staying permanently. Until I go to med school, that is."

Olivia’s face lights up, and she grabs my hand. "Eve, that’s wonderful! We’d love to have you close by. Right, Aiden?"

But Aiden’s expression is guarded. A flicker of unease crosses his face.

"Permanently?" he echoes, frowning. "It’s great you want to be closer, but..."

He trails off, searching for the right words.

I sense his discomfort. Aiden has always valued his space and independence. The idea of me being so close might feel like an intrusion.

"I know it’s a big change," I say softly, meeting his gaze. "But with med school starting and everything with Dad… I need a fresh start."

Aiden’s face softens a bit. "I get that, Eve. Really, I do. It’s just… a lot to process."

Desperate to lighten the mood, I force a grin. "If it’s too much trouble, I could stay with Carter. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind."

The words slip out before I realize my mistake. Aiden’s face hardens. His jaw tightens. "Carter? My half-brother, Carter?"

I feel my cheeks warm. Embarrassment and defensiveness swirl inside me.

"It was just a joke, Aiden. You know I wouldn’t actually?—"

"Do I?" he interrupts, his voice tense. "Because it sounds like you’ve got a bit of a crush on him."

His words hang between us, heavy and charged. I open my mouth to deny it, but the words stick. Deep down, I know there’s truth in his accusation, a longing I’ve tried to ignore.

Carter is the most gorgeous guy I’ve ever seen. But he is way out of my league. I’m not crazy.

"Aiden, please," Olivia says, placing a calming hand on his arm. "Eve’s just trying to find her place. We should support her, not make accusations."

Aiden deflates, the anger leaving him. "You’re right. I’m sorry. It’s just… a lot to handle, you know?"

I nod, swallowing past the lump in my throat. "I know. And I’m sorry for springing this on you. But I promise, my feelings for Carter… they’re not what you think."