My Ruthless Stepbrother (Completed)

CHAPTER 1

ONE: "The second son." ✍️

"IRRYN, isn't this your last week of school and vacation nearly approaching?"

I nodded at my mother's question as I entered our yard and met her on our small terrace.

"Yes, mom," I politely answered after sitting in the chair with my backpack removed.

I just came home from school as classes had been done.

What mom said was true. It is now Wednesday in the last week of March and we have two days left to go to school before summer vacation.

"My dear, we're going to General Santos City next week for a vacation."

"Really, mom?" I exclaimed, full of enthusiasm and excitement, "Are we going to Gensan for a vacation?"

Mom smiled. "Yes, dear but..."

Her next words sounded hesitant. She appeared to have something to say or confess to me, but she was doubtful.

"But what, mom?"

"We will be staying there for good and not be returning in this house anymore."

I was taken aback. "Huh? Why, mother?"

"I have something to tell you..."

I was nervous... but I was ready to listen.

"I am listejning, mom."

"It's been three years since your father passed away, Ryn..." She was treading cautiously and gently as she introduced a sensitive topic.

I nodded slowly. "Yes, mom."

"And you knew how much I missed him when he left, didn't you? Because I love your father, Irryn..." Her voice almost broke into tears.

I was still intrigued. When we talked about dad, I couldn't help but feel sad for her because she was so emotional over him.

"I know that."

"Dear, after three years of suffering and mourning, isn't it time for us to make a change in our lives? I'm not saying we'll ever forget your father. But I believe we have to go on and move forward with our lives..."

"Mom, I've accepted it for quite some time. What I'm concerned about is you and how you feel for the past years since he left us."

"I accepted it too, my dear. Now that I know you have accepted, you probably won't be upset when I tell you that..."

"That what, mom?"

She couldn't seem the right words to say.

"Mom, please tell me directly what you want to say. Get straight to the point and please don't torture me!"

"Ah, sweetheart, the truth is that I intend to remarry..."

I was caught off guard and did not immediately respond. I knew my mother had something to say because of her actions, but I had no idea it was about her getting married again.

She quickly smoothed herself out and said, "Ah, that is if it's alright with you, Ryn, and if you approve it, but if you don't want me to get married again, then I'll accept your decision, my lovely daughter."

I quickly shook my head and held her hand tenderly. "I'm just shocked, mom, but I didn't say that I won't let you."

She stared at me for a long moment. "You mean—"

I cheerfully smiled and nodded. "If that's what makes you happy, why would I even stop you? After all, you've been the best mother to me ever even after dad was gone."