FORBIDDEN TIES {My brother's best friend}

Chapter 42

I carefully applied the last touches of my makeup, glancing anxiously at the clock. I was running late, but a surge of determination drove me to meet Cyrus. With a deep breath, I adjusted my outfit and made my way downstairs, my heart pounding with fear.

Just as I was about to step out the door, I heard footsteps approaching. I turned to see Grey and Blue standing in the hallway, their expressions a mix of surprise and concern.

"Hey, where are you going?" Grey asked, his tone sharper than usual.

I hesitated before replying, "Just out for a bit."

Grey's gaze narrowed. "Is it Cyrus you were talking about-the one who choked you?"

My heart skipped a beat. I hadn't expected them to find out about Cyrus at all and now this. I nodded, trying to downplay the situation. "Yes, but it wasn't a serious choking. It wasn't violent."

Grey's frown deepened. "Even so, you're still seeing him or what?"

I felt a surge of frustration. "It's not as simple as you think. I need to handle things myself."

Blue stepped closer, concern evident in his eyes. "Selena, Ezra just told us about Cyrus. We're worried about you. Cyrus is not someone you should be seeing."

My frustration boiled over. "I know you're concerned, but I'm handling it. I need to go."

Despite their protests, I opened the door and stepped outside, really needed to meet Cyrus and resolve our difficult situation. As I walked away, I could feel their concerned looks on my back, but I was firm in my decision.

I just hope they did not tell my father or my two wicked brothers. I do, however, trust blue and gray.

~~

I pushed open the door to Cyrus's house, a small smile tugging at my lips as memories of our last encounter flashed through my mind. Shaking off the lingering thoughts, I walked quietly through the hallway, making my way to his room. I had told him I would come by, but I hadn't mentioned I was already here.

As I entered his room, I found Cyrus lying on the bed, his face partially obscured by the mess of his dark hair. The sight of him relaxed and vulnerable was almost serene, and I couldn't help but smile softly as I approached him.

I leaned in closer, taking in his features with a mixture of affection and concern. His face was handsome, but something was unsettling about how still he was. Gently, I brushed a strand of hair away from his forehead and touched his face.

My heart skipped a beat when I realized his skin felt unnaturally warm. I pulled my hand back, a jolt of worry shooting through me. "Cyrus?" I whispered, leaning closer to assess his condition. The high temperature was more than a little alarming.

I sat down beside him, my eyes scanning his face, hoping he would stir or give me some sign that he was okay.

As Cyrus slowly opened his eyes and focused on me, a soft smile touched his lips. "Hey, Selena," he murmured.

I immediately noticed the feverish glow on his cheeks. "Are you okay?" I asked, my voice filled with concern.

He tried to reassure me with a weak smile. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little under the weather."

I touched his forehead, startled by the intense heat radiating from him. "You're not fine. You're burning up. We need to get you to the hospital."

Cyrus shook his head slowly, though his expression was more pained than resolute. "I don't think it's necessary. I'm sure it's just a fever. I've had worse."