I Was the Secret, She Got the Ring

I've been a goody-two-shoes for 18 years. The only outrageous thing I've ever done is get into a secret relationship with my stepbrother, Kieran Brock, even though my mom and my stepfather, Andre Brock, are still living in the same house as us.

During the day, we're stepsiblings who aren't familiar with each other. At night, however, we tangle with each other heatedly in the same bed.

During the fifth year of our underground relationship, I accidentally overhear Kieran's conversation with his friend.

"When you were 21, you robbed your stepsister of her virginity. Now that you've toyed with her for five years, aren't you planning on giving her a legitimate position by your side?"

I feel my heart tensing. Somehow, I look forward to hearing Kieran's answer.

As Kieran plays with his lighter, he shoots his friend a flippant smile.

"Like you said, she's my sister. She's not meant to be known as my lover. Had I not plan on getting revenge on her mom for ruining my family, there's no way I'd sleep with her!

"Also, I've already proposed to Vivian. She's the only woman who is worthy of becoming my wife."

I don't break down and demand answers from Kieran. Instead, I pretend to not hear anything as I turn on my heel and walk away.

On the day of Kieran's wedding, he specifically tells his friends to watch over the venue to prevent me from causing trouble there.

What he doesn't know is that I've already boarded a flight meant for another country. This time, I will never come back.

At his birthday party, Kieran Brock pulled me into an empty private room next door. Scorching breath swept in together with a searing kiss.

I could hear the faint murmur of strangers passing by behind the door.

Blushing furiously, I tried to push Kieran back. But he caught my wrists and pinned them above my head until I couldn't move.

"Esty, don't say no to me, please."

His usually steady voice had a pleading edge to it that instantly melted my resolve. I wrapped my arms around his neck.

It wasn't until Kieran's hand slid under the hem of my dress, sending a shiver through me, that I finally snapped back to my senses.

Breathless, I caught his hand before he could go any further. "N-Not here."

Kieran's voice was low and hypnotic. "No one's coming in."

I looked away, afraid that if I caught his gaze, I'd lose myself and agree to anything. "I can't. Mom is waiting for me to get home."

Kieran stiffened for a moment, then thoughtfully buttoned up each undone button for me.

"I won't be done here for a while. Let the driver take you home first. Text me when you're back safe."

I could see the disappointment in his eyes. I bit my lip and whispered, "I-I'll wait up for you tonight. I came out in a rush today and left your gift in my room."

Kieran paused, a