My first crush (COMPLETED)√

Chapter 17

"I know... but I'm confused."
My voice trembled slightly as I spoke. These were the moments when desire clashed with conscience — when I wanted something so badly even though I knew wanting it was wrong. And deep down, I hated admitting it. It felt selfish... painfully selfish.

"I swear I want to be with you — not Patricia."
Stephen reached forward and held my hands in his, his grip warm and steady, as though he could anchor my uncertainty.

"But—" I tried to speak, but he gently hushed me.

"I never liked her the way I feel about you now," he continued, his voice earnest. "We've been friends since childhood. That's all it ever was. Our parents tied us together with some business agreement, and honestly... it disgusts me every time I think about it." His jaw tightened before softening again. "It's never going to work. I'll do everything I can to end it. I promise."

Before I could respond, he wrapped his arms around me. The embrace felt safe — too safe — and I let myself sink into it, ignoring the quiet guilt lingering at the back of my mind.

"Okay," I whispered at last.

He pulled back, searching my face. "So... does that mean we're together now?"

"I don't know," I admitted, heat rising to my cheeks. "Maybe."

"Tell me now. I want to hear you say it."

I looked down, shy and overwhelmed. I couldn't believe I'd fallen this hard. All I knew was that I wanted him — even if it meant risking everything.
"No," I teased softly.

"Please..." he pressed.

I sighed, giving in. "Okay."

He shook his head, smiling. "I want a yes."

I nudged him playfully. "Yes."

"I love you."
He grinned and began tickling me, laughter spilling out between us.

"Liar," I said, breathless with laughter. "That's too early."
Still, I leaned into him, and our lips met in a soft kiss that lingered longer than I expected.

"I really mean it, Sharon," he murmured, sincerity glowing in his eyes.

"Well..." I smiled. "I love you more than anything."
The words came out easily, though somewhere inside I knew I was exaggerating — after all, I'd probably trade a lot for a good meal without hesitation. The thought almost made me laugh.

"I—"

The doorbell rang, slicing through the moment like a blade.

I froze.
Suddenly remembering — my mom had said she'd be home soon.

"Stephen, you need to hide. Right now."

"What? Why?"

"Please," I pleaded, lowering my voice urgently. "I'm begging you."

He groaned. "Okay, fine. Where?"

"Behind the couch. Quickly."

"I hate this," he muttered as he moved.

"Please..." I whispered again before rushing to the door.

Taking a steadying breath, I opened it — only to find a face I never expected standing there.

My heart skipped.

"Eric?"