Irish Oxytocin

Soulmates | 16

❁ Chapter 16 ❁

Nolan's Point of View
*flashback to a couple of months ago...*

Gran, Riley and I were set to leave overseas in the following morning. I was packing the last of my things, and my carry-on bag for the plane. My furniture would only be delivered at the end of the week.
I was just about ready to bring my bags downstairs when I heard a knock on the door. I knew who it was, so I didn't dare to turn around. I zipped my duffle bag closed harshly before I sat at my desk and opened my phone. Rage still filled my body. I felt betrayed by both of them.

"Brother," he addressed me.
I stayed quiet, just about ready to put my headphones in.
"You don't have to go," he pleaded.
"Ronan. If you don't get out-"
"Just listen. Okay?" He pleaded again.

I didn't say anything again, but I was listening.

"I'm sorry," he apologized for the thousandth time.
I scoffed.
"Dude, I don't care. Just fuck off," I snapped.

He stayed quiet for a moment, and I heard him sit on my bed. The squeak from the lack of bedding Irritated me a bit.

"I know you loved her too," he huffed quietly.
"That's really funny bro...since last I checked, I was in love with her first," I snapped again.
He looked at me with sad eyes, and I stared from the corner of my eye.
"You can't control how the universe plays its cards," he reminded me.

You know, I understood that. Hailey and I were never meant to be from the beginning. But, she was my friend first. My best friend. I've grown up with her all my life. She's been our neighbour since I was two.
I've been in love with her for years. But the minute my brother comes around and shows off his ability to run White Force, he swoops her off her feet like I never existed. I noticed her first, and Ronan only came around when she returned from her trip more beautiful than ever before.
But, he does love her. I can see it every time he looks at her.
I do get it, though. We both love her, but they were "destined from the beginning" or however they've been putting it.
I can't stay here anymore, and I know I shouldn't blame Ronan for finding the love of his life.
I just wish it wasn't her.

"Look, bro..." I started.
Ronan's eyes shot to mine as I turned around in my chair.
"I'm happy for you, I am. You both deserve to be happy. But I can't stay here anymore..." I trembled.

"I understand," he lied.
I shook my head.
"I need a fresh start," I reminded him.
"I get you can't leave because of her and the company, but I refuse to stay here with dad and Melissa."
Melissa was my stepmom and Ronan's real mother. I didn't get along with her whatsoever, and I've been living with Gran since she moved in. Roughly eleven years ago.
Ronan has always treated me like his real brother, and that's why I chose to be proud instead of angry.

"You deserve her, man. I mean it," I admitted to him.
Then, we both stood up and embraced each other in our arms.
"I'll be in for your graduation party," he promised.
"I'll see you then."

It was an especially warm Monday morning outside Cora's house. I pulled out a cig' from the box in my pocket and shoved it between my teeth. I brought the lighter up to my lips, using my other hand to block any potential draft as I leaned against my car.
I was waiting for Cora to come out of her house for school. We had FaceTimed and called since the night of the kiss, but neither of us had mentioned the soul mark on both of our forearms. I think it's because we knew how much this changes everything. Us being soulmates, that is.