I thought that after twenty years with the Sterlings—even as an adopted child—I'd at least count as family. But the day they found their biological daughter Victoria, they announced they were throwing me out and planned to humiliate me at the family gathering. Based on what right?

Even more disgusting was how my almost-fiancé Blake immediately started fooling around with Victoria, eager to watch me get kicked to the curb!

When everyone was lining up to step on me, it was Alexander—the one I'm supposed to call "stepbrother"—who protected me. In his apartment, when he stood behind me gripping my hand as I chopped vegetables, his breath grazing my ear before he finally bent down to kiss me... my heartbeat went completely erratic.


Betrayed by All, Loved by My Stepbrother 

Scarlett
Today was the Sterling family's annual gala.
I stood before the mirror, carefully selecting my evening gown. A deep blue silk dress, understated yet elegant, perfectly complementing my complexion.
*I need to look stunning tonight,* I smiled at my reflection, imagining Alexander's express...

Chapter 8