Claimed And Marked By Her Stepbrother Mates novel Chapter 148

Chapter 148: 148-The Angry And Unpredictable Stepbrothers

Helanie:

"Fine." He was so quick to give up tonight, confirming my suspicions. He really wanted me to be the reason he stopped pursuing me.

"I think by the time we wait, we’ll be free. Then, once you’ve figured out whatever you want from your life, I’ll ask you that question again. Until then, we’re both free."

I frowned at his choice of words.

What was he even trying to say?

"Huh?" I raised my head, watching him closely, waiting for him to explain himself.

"You don’t even want to say that you’ll accept me in the future. And what future? When? I know nothing. So by the time you’re ready to accept me, I’ll wait, but I won’t—" He abruptly stopped, gulping hard.

So I helped him finish his sentence. "You won’t stay single?" I let out a laugh and shook my head at myself.

I mean, he wasn’t wrong.

He had every right to date whoever he wanted. It’s not like I’d ever told him I liked him or that I would accept him.

If anything, I’d promised the Moon Goddess that I would never accept what she chose for me.

"You’re taking it the wrong way. I’m very conflicted. I’m stuck between two paths, Helanie. One is where I want to be, but I don’t even know if that path will ever open for me. And then there’s the path I’ve always wanted to take. That path is open now and inviting me," he murmured under his breath, gulping frequently—either to moisten his throat or to hide the guilt he felt for leading me on.

I didn’t even know if he was in the wrong or if I was.

But we were both hurting.

"You should pick that path, Kaye. You’re right, I don’t even know if I’m ever going to accept you." I kept my tone honest, my posture straight, and my eyes focused on his face.

I did it so it would be easier for him to make a decision. He wasn’t at fault for thinking about himself. And even though it would hurt, I was ready to face the truth. I couldn’t drag him along.

But I thanked myself for keeping my secret.

What if I had told him everything?

"You were never going to accept me?" he asked again, and I shrugged.

"I don’t know, Kaye. I’ve always told you that I don’t know when I’ll be ready." I was being honest, but looking into his eyes was so difficult.

"You should go accept the deal," I said softly, turning around to leave. My steps were slow, but my intention was clear—I aimed to leave. Yet, somewhere deep down, I had a feeling he would step forward and hold my hand to stop me from walking away.