Forbidden Attractions

The Unbreakable Rule

The next morning dawned bright and clear, but Christopher Strong awoke with a sense of foreboding. He could still picture Josh and Amelia laughing together in the park, the way Amelia had leaned in close to Josh, her laughter ringing like music. He brushed a hand through his tousled hair, feeling the weight of responsibility settle heavily on his shoulders.

After a quick breakfast, Christopher knew he had to lay down the law again. He couldn't let Amelia's summer become a distraction—at least not the kind he feared. It was time to make sure Josh understood just how serious he was about protecting his sister.

The day stretched on, and Christopher found Josh sprawled on the couch, playing video games, his usual carefree demeanor in full swing. It was almost a facade, Christopher thought. Underneath that playful exterior was a guy who had been his friend for years, yet now felt like a stranger when it came to Amelia.

"Hey, Josh, we need to talk," Christopher said, his voice firm.

Josh paused the game, raising an eyebrow. "Uh-oh, sounds serious. What's up?"

Christopher took a deep breath, standing with his arms crossed, trying to project an air of authority. "About Amelia."

Josh's expression shifted from playful to slightly defensive. "What about her?"

"You know I've always been protective of her," Christopher began, choosing his words carefully. "Now that she's back for the summer, I need you to understand—she's off-limits."

"Christopher," Josh started, leaning forward. "I get it. I really do. But you can't keep treating her like she's still a kid. She's an adult now."

"I know that," Christopher replied, frustration bubbling just below the surface. "But that doesn't change the fact that she's my sister. You have a history of getting carried away with girls, and I don't want that to happen with her."

Josh rolled his eyes, frustration etched on his face. "Seriously? You think I'd hurt her on purpose? She's one of my best friends."

"Exactly! That's why this is so important. I don't want to complicate things. I don't want you two getting involved. I can't risk losing either of you." Christopher's voice softened at the last words, a hint of vulnerability seeping through.

Josh sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I promise I won't do anything stupid, alright? I'll respect your wishes. But it's not that simple, Christopher. You can't just pretend feelings don't exist."

Christopher felt his heart race. "What do you mean?"

"I mean, it's not just you who's protective of Amelia. You're not the only one who sees her differently now. I can't help how I feel," Josh confessed, his voice low, a mix of honesty and frustration.

"Feelings? What feelings?" Christopher asked, trying to maintain his composure.

"I just think she's amazing, okay?" Josh shot back. "She's grown up, and I'm starting to see her as more than just your little sister. But I won't cross any lines if you don't want me to."

Christopher's chest tightened as he absorbed Josh's admission. He felt the weight of his own emotions, battling the urge to confront Josh about his feelings for Amelia. "Just keep it platonic," Christopher finally said, his tone stern. "I mean it, Josh."

"Fine. I'll keep my distance, but you have to understand—it's not easy," Josh replied, his gaze unwavering.

With a nod, Christopher realized this conversation had only scratched the surface. He would need to keep a close eye on the two of them. He couldn't let Josh's burgeoning feelings complicate their friendship.