The Billionaire Who Stole My Heart novel (Brittany and Isaac)

"Kari, it's pretty clear where Ronald stands," Brittany gently hinted, her voice carrying a mix of concern and amusement. "His affection for you has definitely crossed the so-called sibling boundaries."

Kari felt a warmth spreading through her chest, confusion and surprise mingling within her thoughts. "But I've always seen him as a brother. How am I supposed to act around him now?"

And to think they had even shared a meal at one of those cozy diners downtown, the kind that had booths for two and dim, romantic lighting!

Brittany didn't believe Kari was entirely indifferent towards Ronald; rather, she was stuck in her old perceptions. "Look, Kari, if Ronald hasn't made the first move, then maybe you guys can just keep things as they are for now." "He's genuinely a great guy, Kari. Maybe give it a chance."

Kari couldn't help but feel Brittany had been somehow convinced or 'bought over' by someone, her words making Kari's ears burn. "I can't."

Brittany didn't push further, opting for a change in topic. "It's getting late, you should get some rest."

After hanging up, Kari stared at the latest text from Ronald, her mind a whirlpool of thoughts.

Ronald had been a fixture in her life for as long as she could remember.

The thought of him harboring those kinds of feelings towards her was something she had never considered.

Restlessly, she tossed and turned in bed, puzzled over what Ronald saw in her. After all, it had been a decade since their paths diverged...

The next morning, Kari woke up with dark circles under her eyes, a testament to her restless night.

As she opened her door, she was startled to find Ronald in the kitchen.

"Morning."

Kari's heart skipped a beat, and then, impulsively, she slammed the door shut.

What was happening?

How did Ronald end up here?

Ronald, left standing outside, couldn't hide the flicker of disappointment in his eyes.

Willa, hearing the door slam, emerged from the kitchen with a puzzled look. "Is Kari up? Why did she slam the door again?"

"Must be something urgent," Ronald offered, trying to sound nonchalant.

Willa, setting aside the apple she was slicing, knocked on Kari's door. "Kari, are you awake?"

Upon opening the door and seeing

Ronald had moved into the kitchen, Kari breathed a sigh of relief, whispering, "Mom, why's he here?"

sw novel

Given last night's revelations, calling Ronald 'brother' felt impossible now.

"Didn't you say you

loved lobster?

Ronald brought some fresh ones over. I'm planning to whip up some spicy lobster for dinner," Willa

beamed, oblivious to the

undercurrents. "Ronald's alwel

so

thoughtful, even brought me some lovely herbal teas. He's really considerate."

Knowing Ronald's true feelings made it impossible for Kari to keep treating him like a brother. She managed a weak smile. "Breakfast's ready."

Ronald announced, bringing the conversation back to the present.

Willa led Kari to the dining table, where an awkward silence seemed to hover over them like a cloud.

Kari could barely meet Ronald's gaze, her throat suddenly tight as if to stifle the emotions threatening to spill over.

Ronald knew he had unsettled her.

And he had come over precisely because he knew - to clear the air, to make things right.

As they sat down, Ronald tried to keep the atmosphere light, passing Kari her favorite dishes and pouring her soy milk, though she hardly touched anything he offered her discomfort palpable.

Willa wasn't blind to the tension. "Kari, have you and Ronald had a disagreement?"

Usually, Kari was so affectionate, calling Ronald 'bro' with such warmth. But today, everything felt off. "No!" Kari's denial was swift, more out of reflex than conviction.

"Really?" Willa's skepticism was evident.

Ronald offered a small, reassuring smile. "Kari and I are fine. Just a minor disagreement."

"What disagreement?" Willa's maternal instincts kicked in, wanting them to resolve their differences. "It's not "

Kari couldn't possibly admit it was the sudden realization of Ronald's feelings that had startled her. Ronald took the blame, "It's my fault. I did something that upset Kari. It's only natural she'd be mad at me." Kari's silence spoke volumes as the breakfast continued amidst an unspoken tension.